Annabelle Clarke

PR Manager

Annabelle Clarke | Author

Eduardo Rodrigues

Content Writer

Claudia Tuñón

Isobel Coughlan

Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

Alastair Shephard

If you’ve experienced losing control of your car, you’ll know how unsettling it is, regardless of where it happens and at what speed. 

Whether you've encountered this feeling or are simply trying to avoid it in the future, this article will help you understand the causes and how to avoid them. We’ll also give a brief overview of what to do if you find yourself skidding

What Exactly Is Skidding, And What Causes It?

Skidding is when your car's tyres lose grip with the road surface, and instead of rolling along in the intended direction, slide across the road, either forwards or sideways. 

Skidding can happen on any surface, regardless of its level of friction, and there are very few surfaces, with the right tyres and driving style, where skidding cannot be avoided. 

In most situations on the road, skidding is caused by one of the following situations:

It’s always a dangerous situation to lose control of your vehicle, regardless of how or when it happens, so it’s essential to know how to prevent a skid before it happens.

Excessive braking or harsh inputs to the steering wheel don’t give the tyres enough time to adjust to the desired direction or speed, and as such, can easily cause them to lose traction.

You can see this when watching rally drivers take corners; they use harsh braking and steering to make the rear of the car lose traction, enabling them to take the corner faster. I wouldn’t recommend trying this yourself, though!

The tread on your tyres enables them to grip even through wet or loose surfaces. If you don't replace them when they are worn out, the lack of tread depth will drastically affect their grip.

The law states you should not drive with tyres that have a tread depth below 1.6mm, but the recommended point to change them is 3mm. It’s also important to select the right tyre for your car and driving style.

For more information on tyre types, find the 

For an easy way to break down the cost of tyres, check out our 

If you manage your speed according to the road conditions, it should be possible to avoid skidding. Make sure to leave plenty of space behind the car in front, and slow down more for corners and roundabouts.

Did you know that your car’s stopping distance roughly doubles in the wet? Wet and especially icy roads can have much less grip than dry roads. Similarly, mud or gravel on the road can easily cause a loss of control if not accounted for.

Take into consideration also the type of road you are on; a single-track country lane adjacent to fields is much more likely to have mud and debris on it compared to a main road. Similarly, a road that passes by a building site may well have loose sand or gravel present.

In some cases, the road condition can be unexpectedly poor, or you may need to make an emergency manoeuvre that results in a skid. It’s important to remember the key steps on how to control a skid and minimise the danger:

 has been writing about cars for over seven years and writing for Bumper for over two, blending his passion for automobiles with a talent for storytelling.

Joseph has written about engineering and cars for Autozilla, Komaspec, and several engineering manufacturers. When he's not writing or tinkering with one of his cars, Joseph dreams of owning an Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale.

How To Stop Your Car From Skidding And What To Do If It Does

Thinking about replacing your timing belt (or cambelt) but worried about the cost? It’s one of those jobs you can’t ignore, but you don’t want to overpay either. 

This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the cost of a timing belt replacement, what affects it, and how to avoid bigger (and more expensive) problems down the road.

How much should I pay for a timing belt replacement?

In the UK, the average timing belt replacement will set you back somewhere between £300 and £700. That covers the belt plus the cost of labour to strip down the engine and fit the new parts.

If you drive a luxury model or a car with a more complicated internal combustion engine, you can expect the price to climb past £1,000. Not cheap, but trust us, it's worth it to avoid the kind of extensive engine damage that a broken timing belt can cause.

Labour costs, which vary depending on the garage, car, and materials needed.

What factors affect the timing belt replacement cost?

Several things impact what you’ll pay for your timing belt replacement:

Yes, timing belt replacements are expensive, but 

replacing it is much, much worse. Spending a few hundred now on proper maintenance avoids potentially bigger problems later.

If a timing belt breaks while you're driving, you’re looking at:

Compared to that, the average cost of £300–£700 for a timing belt replacement is a no-brainer.

Looking for a smarter way to pay for your timing belt replacement? Bumper’s 0% interest 

 lets you split the cost into easy monthly instalments. Get your car fixed sooner and get back on the road with Bumper!

How do I know if my timing belt needs replacing?

You’ll know it’s time to replace your timing belt if you start to notice any of the following:

It’s best not to leave it until you notice any of these warning signs, though. Instead, replace your timing belt in line with the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations:

How to save money on your timing belt replacement costs

Replacing a timing belt is one of the more expensive maintenance jobs, but there are some nifty ways to reduce the final cost. Here’s how you can lower your timing belt replacement cost and avoid paying more than you need to:

Take control of your car replacement costs with Bumper

Replacing your timing belt is one of the smartest ways to keep your car on the road and your wallet away from expensive engine replacement costs. And with Bumper’s 

, you don’t have to worry about the full cost hitting you all at once. Spread your final bill over 3 to 6 easy monthly payments so you can get back on the road sooner without the stress of waiting around. Apply online or at one of our 5,000+ partner garages – approval takes minutes, so start now!

How much does it cost to replace a timing belt in the UK?

Bumper has identified a shift in customers choosing to pay repair bills outside of dealership opening hours.

Over two-thirds (67%) of customers using Bumper’s PayLater service, where bills are split into interest-free monthly payments, are completing transactions remotely out of hours. 

While 33% of PayNow transactions, which facilitate direct payments via card or Pay by Bank, are also happening when dealerships are closed. 

Bumper’s analysis identified that most of the repair work is driven by customers authorising Vehicle Health Check (VHC) advisories with link

"By expanding the number of rooftops utilising our services and integrating with more dealer systems, we're seeing customers embrace the ability to authorise and pay for repair work at their convenience,” said 

Daniel Christie, Bumper’s Head of Sales.

“VHCs are proving to be a game changer for remote payments, giving customers instant access to the information they need. 

Consequently, most transactions now occur in the evening, when car owners are at home and have time to make informed decisions and without the pressure of in-person upselling. This move

drives conversions, making aftersales transactions more profitable. 

“These automated out-of-hours payments are also helping to streamline dealership operations, freeing up valuable resources to be used elsewhere by allowing teams to focus on 

Last year, Bumper facilitated £300m worth of transactions and is on track to exceed £1.1bn this year. 

Bumper identifies shift in customers paying VHC repair bills outside dealer opening hours

Noticing that your car battery keeps dying is never pleasant. There’s nothing worse than turning the key and hearing that dreaded clicking sound, or worse, nothing at all.

However, there are a few common reasons behind this situation and, more importantly, a few ways to prevent your car battery from draining quickly. Here’s what you need to know.

Common reasons your car battery is draining quickly

Noticing your car battery draining repeatedly? It might be because of these reasons. 

Popping to the shops might be more harmful than you think. 

Starting the engine draws a significant amount of power, and if the alternator doesn’t have enough time to replace that energy, your battery may gradually weaken. 

This means that if you regularly drive short distances, your battery may not have the opportunity to fully recharge. 

Car batteries don’t last forever. On average, they need replacing every three to five years.

If your car is struggling to start or if the lights seem dimmer than usual, your battery might be on its last legs.

Forgetting to turn off your headlights and interior lights or even leaving a USB charger plugged in can drain your battery overnight. 

Some newer cars turn lights off automatically, but it's always worth double-checking when you leave your vehicle.

Faulty charging system (defective alternator)

Your car relies on the alternator to keep the battery charged while driving. 

If the alternator is faulty or the drive belt is slipping, your battery won’t receive the power it needs, eventually leading to a flat battery.

A local garage can help you resolve this problem, and 

 from Bumper can help you split the costs.

Notice that your car battery keeps dying when the weather changes? Well, that’s because very hot or freezing weather can impact your battery’s performance.

In the cold, the battery has to work harder to start the engine. In contrast, excessive heat can cause the battery fluid to evaporate, leading to internal damage.

Even when your car is switched off, certain systems, such as alarms, clocks, and infotainment units, continue to draw a small amount of power. 

This is known as a parasitic drain, and although it’s typically minimal, faulty components or aftermarket parts can sometimes cause excessive draw, leading to a flat battery.

How to prevent your car battery from dying 

These days, you don’t have to put up with your car battery draining quickly. Use the tips below to prevent future frustration.

When you park and lock up, make it a habit to switch off the headlights, interior lights, and unplug any accessories before leaving your vehicle. It only takes a few seconds, but it can save you from a flat battery.

If you mainly take short trips or don’t drive daily, you may want to try going for a longer drive once a week. 

Of course, this won’t be possible for everyone. In this case, consider investing in a trickle charger or battery maintainer to keep your battery topped up when your car is parked for long periods.

Don’t ignore dashboard battery warnings. Take action if this appears. 

These could all be early indicators of a dying battery or charging problem, and you can prevent a dead battery by acting fast.

Extreme temperatures can cause dead batteries if your car is left exposed.

Parking your car in a garage helps protect it and extend battery life. If a garage isn’t available, try to park in a shaded or sheltered spot.

Sometimes, there are no signs before a car battery dies.

A quick battery health check can identify potential issues early. Many garages will test your battery and alternator for free or at a low cost. 

It’s best to check before winter or long road trips.

Why your electric car battery keeps dying 

Just like petrol or diesel cars, electric vehicles are susceptible to battery drain when left unused for an extended period.

Some reasons for poor EV battery health include:

Preventing fast EV battery drain is also preventable. 

If you’ve noticed your EV battery keeps losing charge, start with the following strategies:

Whether you drive a petrol car or an EV, a car battery that keeps dying is never fun.

But with a bit of regular maintenance, attention to warning signs, and smart charging habits, you can prevent unexpected breakdowns and improve your car’s health.

Empty batteries are just as frustrating as last-minute repair costs.

, you can split the cost of repairs into monthly payments at no extra cost. 

Apply online for up to £5,000 and choose from 1,000s of trusted repairers. 

Why Your Car Battery Keeps Dying & How To Fix It

Congratulations to Glyn Hopkin Kia Romford. The East-London-based site has been recognised as Bumper’s next Dealership of the Month. 

The team use Bumper’s PayLater option to split the cost of customers’ bills into interest-free monthly payments. 

Feedback from customers using the interest-free option at Kia Romford has been overwhelmingly positive, with an average rating of 4.9 out 5. 

One customer wrote, “Fantastic service, 0% for spreading payments over 3 months - service personnel were amazing, helpful, informative and a credit to the company.” 

Another described their service from Bumper following their visit to the dealer. 

They said, “Left a call back request to clarify payment plan. Bumper operative reverted quickly and resolved the issue." 

The Glyn Hopkin group also use Bumper at their contact centre to introduce payment flexibility earlier in the customer journey. 

Recent research from Bumper revealed a 17% increase in average invoice value from initial application to final payment when PayLater was used at the contact centre. 

When asked about the win, Natalie Barnes, Branch Manager at Glyn Hopkin Kia Romford, said, “A huge well-done to the team on this outstanding win. 

“We started using Bumper just over a year ago and we’re pleased to say, the impact on our customer experience has been tremendous. 

“The option to split the cost gives customers that extra peace of mind, knowing that no matter the size of their bill, there won’t be a negative impact on their hard-earned savings or any interruptions to their priority bills. 

“We’ve already seen happier customers who are more likely to return thanks to the option to PayLater.” 

Congratulations to Bradley, Natalie, Samantha, Sian, and all the Kia Romford team.

Glyn Hopkin Kia Romford celebrated as Dealer of the Month

The best sounding cars of all time aren’t always the largest. 

In a world of quiet electric vehicles, the roar of an engine stands out and is often missed by car enthusiasts. While EVs are a noble cause and at the forefront of technology, sometimes, you just want to hear an engine sing. 

Below, we’ve singled out the best-sounding cars of all time. Trust us, you won’t miss these if they pass you on the street.

From classic cars to modern vehicles, here are the cars known for their incredible sound.

 can help you restore your vehicle to health.

Lamborghini’s V12 beast, the Aventador, is synonymous with loud, raw sound. 

The awe-inspiring 6.5-litre V12 produces an ear-splitting wail that captures the essence of Italian supercars. 

Additionally, the Aventador’s exhaust note is a growling roar, combined with a high-pitched scream, when pushed to its limits. You’ll love the sounds of this one.

The Porsche 911 GT3’s flat-six engine is famous for its distinctive wail.

This vehicle features a motorsport-inspired exhaust note that is sharp and aggressive. But it’s also rather refined. 

The 911 GT3 delivers a sound that is as much about precision and engineering as it is about power, perfectly complementing its track-focused feel.

The Dodge Viper’s 8.4-litre V10 engine produces an enormous and unforgettable roar.

Unlike the refined tones of European sports cars, the Viper offers an unfiltered and primal sound experience.

It’s loud, bold, and unforgettable. A perfect match for the car’s robust styling and rugged performance.

The BMW E46 M3 is a fan favourite for many reasons, and its inline-six engine produces a distinctive, high-pitched exhaust note that’s both sporty and emotional.

Just like the equally loud BMW M850i, you won’t be able to ignore this vehicle accelerating down the motorway.

In addition to a gorgeous style, the Ferrari F355 is famed for its exhilarating V8 engine sound. Its high-revving 3.5-litre V8 produces a sharp, melodic scream that builds with intensity.

Plus, the iconic exhaust note perfectly captures Ferrari’s passion and precision.

The Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio’s 2.9L twin-turbo V6 delivers a deep growl that turns heads with every rev. 

Its exhaust crackles and pops add fiery character, perfectly blending sporty performance with the brand’s signature Italian flair. 

This car’s soundtrack is proof that Alfa Romeo knows how to make even an SUV sound thrilling.

The classic British muscle sound of the Jaguar E-Type is rich and guttural. 

Its straight-six engine produces a deep rumble that oozes vintage charm, reminding us why this car is still one of the most beloved classics on the road.

The Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door’s handcrafted 4.0L twin-turbo V8 unleashes a powerful song that simply commands attention. 

Though many AMG models have downsized for emissions, the AMG GT 4-Door bucks the trend, roaring loud and proud with its twin-turbo V8 heart.

Audi’s legendary 2.5L turbocharged five-cylinder first made waves in the 1980s with the iconic Quattro rally car’s distinctive warble. Today’s RS3 packs 400 hp and keeps that unmistakable howl alive and kicking.

Crack the windows, hit a long stretch of road, and channel your inner rally legend with one of the best-sounding cars around.

Car enthusiasts crave V10 engines, and nothing sounds as distinct as the Lexus LFA’s snarling 4.8L beast. 

A stark contrast to Lexus’s well-known, comfortable image, this supercar screams like a vintage F1, revving so fast it required a digital tachometer. 

Now a rare classic, the V8 LC coupe is one to admire.

Ferrari often tops the list for having the best overall sound despite the intense competition.

The Italian brand’s commitment to naturally aspirated engines, precision exhaust tuning, and racing heritage results in a distinctively thrilling, high-pitched scream that’s hard to beat. 

And the others? Lamborghini and Porsche follow closely behind, each bringing their own signature roar that enthusiasts instantly recognise.

It’s challenging to provide a single answer to this question. Generally, the loudest cars tend to be those with large-displacement engines and minimal exhaust restrictions.

For example, the Dodge Viper, with its thunderous V10, is notorious for its ear-splitting volume. Other contenders include some heavily modified muscle cars with aftermarket exhausts that can exceed legal noise limits. 

While loudness grabs attention, it doesn’t always translate to a quality sound. So, the noisiest car isn’t always the best sounding.

The sound of a car is more than just noise. It’s a crucial part of the driving experience that evokes emotion and a unique connection between driver and machine.

But did your favourite cars make the list?

Car sounds should be an invigorating soundtrack, not a clunky disturbance.

Apply online for up to £5,000 and choose from 1,000s of trusted repairers.

The Definitive 10 Best Sounding Cars of All Time

Repairing a car scratch using a DIY repair kit can cost between £10 and £25. Professional repairs of deep scratches can cost between £150 and £500, depending on labour costs, the extent of the damage, and the type of paint your car has. 

Scratches happen. Whether it’s from a rogue shopping trolley or an annoying stone chip on the motorway, a scratch on your car can eventually grow into an entirely new problem if you leave it long enough. So, how much does it cost to repair a scratch on a car? And more importantly, how do you know if it’s worth it? This guide breaks it all down – the types of scratches, repair process, average cost, and how to save yourself from expensive trips to the garage.

How much does it cost to fix a car scratch?

The cost of fixing a car scratch depends on the level of damage and the type of scratch you’re dealing with. 

Light, superficial scratches that only affect the top layer of paint are cheaper and quicker to fix. You may only need a simple buffing tool or DIY scratch repair kit, which shouldn’t cost you more than £25.

If you choose to go to a professional repair shop, this could increase to anywhere between £60 and £150. So, if you’re on a budget, you might want to give the DIY solution a go. With that in mind, professional repairs are always recommended for the best results, especially if your car is on lease or finance.

For deep scratches that cut through the topcoat and down to the base layer or even the base metal – well, these are a different story. 

A DIY kit probably won't do much to repair a deep scratch unless you want to spend upwards of £100+ on a high-end kit. These include:

…and may do enough to hide the damage on your car. 

If you think the scratch needs a professional’s touch, you’re probably looking at a price tag of around £200 to £500.

What else affects car scratch repair costs?

The type of scratch and whether you go for a DIY fix or professional repairs are two factors in how much your scratch repair will cost. But what else can impact the final price?

Need a professional? Don’t stress about the cost. With our 

, you can spread the cost of scratch repairs into easy, interest-free monthly instalments. Applying takes minutes – start now!

Should you repair a car scratch yourself or go pro?

If you’re not sure whether it’s worth asking a professional to repair your car scratch, keep the following in mind:

For minor damage like superficial coat scratches, you don’t always need to rush to a repair shop. A scratch repair kit can be a cost-effective solution for bringing back some of your car’s external finish.

Use a clean cloth and a bit of scratch remover, rubbing the scratch in circular motions. This helps smooth out the scratch and blend it into the surrounding paint layer for a nearly invisible repair. This also protects the car’s coat layer from getting worse over time, so you can avoid more expensive repairs down the line.

For more severe scratches, it’s best to leave it to the professionals. DIY fixes on a deep car scratch often just lead to bigger, more expensive repairs if done incorrectly – and there’s even a risk of causing more damage to the paint layer.

On the other hand, trained technicians follow proven repair methods to carefully rebuild each coat layer, resulting in a more seamless match with the rest of your car’s paint. 

When it comes to repairing a car scratch, no one wants to pay more than they have to. Here’s how to keep the cost of car scratch repairs down:

If you’re going the professional route, don’t settle for the first quote you get. Shop around to get a clearer idea of the average cost and compare what each repair shop includes in their service. Some may offer extras like warranties or free touch-ups, helping you get better value for your money.

Minor scratches might seem harmless at first, but they can quickly get worse if left untreated for long enough. Moisture, dirt, and road salt can turn a simple surface scratch into a deeper problem that can eventually damage the base metal. Spending a little on a DIY scratch repair kit might just save you from spending hundreds more later on. 

Get car repairs sorted the easy way with Bumper 

Unexpected scratches can be a nuisance, but paying for repairs doesn’t have to be. With Bumper’s 

, you can spread car scratch repair costs into manageable, interest-free monthly payments. Applying takes minutes – you can do it online or at one of over 5,000 trusted garages and get back on the road sooner. Start now!

How much does it cost to repair a scratch on a car?

Whether you're driving an old Nissan Leaf or just planning ahead, knowing the cost of a battery replacement can help you avoid surprises down the road. In this guide, we’ll break down how much it costs to replace a Nissan Leaf battery, what influences the price, and how you can save money in the process.

How much does it cost to replace a Nissan Leaf battery?

Replacing a Nissan Leaf battery in the UK varies depending on several factors, including the battery's capacity, the vehicle's model year, and the choice between OEM or third-party replacements. Here's a detailed breakdown of the Leaf’s 

What else affects Nissan Leaf battery replacement cost?

Several factors affect pricing beyond the battery itself:

How to reduce the cost of a Nissan Leaf battery replacement

If you're looking to reduce the cost of a Nissan Leaf battery replacement, start by checking your warranty. Nissan’s EV battery coverage is one of the most generous in the market, offering up to eight years or 100,000 miles, so you could be eligible for a free 

Next, shop around. Don’t settle for the first dealership quote you get. Independent EV specialists often offer more competitive prices, especially on labour and parts. You should also consider a refurbished battery. While they won’t match the lifespan of a brand-new unit, many reconditioned packs come with short-term warranties and cost significantly less, ideal if you’re trying to keep the car on the road for a few more years.

 from Bumper let you split your bill into interest-free monthly payments. It’s easy to apply, and we’re accepted at thousands of UK garages. Get back on the road sooner with Bumper!

Is it worth replacing a Nissan Leaf battery?

If your Leaf is relatively new or in good shape otherwise, replacing the battery might be the smarter long-term call. But for older models (especially pre-2015), a full battery replacement might not be worth the cost when compared to the value of the car. Here’s a quick guide: