Annabelle Clarke

PR Manager

Annabelle Clarke | Author

Eduardo Rodrigues

Content Writer

Claudia Tuñón

Isobel Coughlan

Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

Alastair Shephard

Everything seems to be getting more expensive, and motoring expenses are no different. 

With the estimated cost for 2023 being over £3,000, the average car running costs will soon make up an even larger portion of modern life's costs. Energy bills can be reduced by lowering your central heating temperature and food bills by eating out less, yet car running costs seem to be immovable. 

Luckily, there are some ways we can save money on cars. Today, we’ll explain how to reduce car running costs with easy and actionable tips. 

Do you know the average running costs for a car in the UK? The answers might surprise you. 

 shows that the average UK driver spends £2,500 a year on car costs. Let’s have a look at the breakdown below. 

Factors that affect the average running costs 

The average car costs above give you a good insight into what UK drivers are paying. But these figures aren’t set in stone. There are plenty of factors that can impact these numbers. 

For example, the age and make of your car can easily swing the numbers. Older cars may need more servicing, and some cars may have higher taxes. Likewise, some drivers will have higher insurance premiums than others. 

If you want to stay ahead of expenses, it’s a good idea to forecast your annual car running costs. Alongside looking at averages, you can work out your individual expenses from previous payments. 

Here are a few steps you can take to plan your future car running costs: 

Yes! Alongside setting a budget for your average running costs, you should try to build an emergency fund for unexpected car expenses. 

This isn’t possible for everyone. However, having some funds set aside can take the pressure off your finances in an emergency situation. Financial gurus suggest having around three months of expenses saved up for a trusty emergency fund. 

If you don’t have cash saved up and face an unexpected bill, don’t worry. Companies like Bumper are here to help you split the cost without taking out an expensive 

Split the cost of your bill into monthly payments. 

Shopping around and doing your research before purchasing a car can make a big difference to your yearly expenses. Here’s how to reduce the average car running costs. 

 and are not thinking of or in a position to change it, then this one is difficult. The only way to reduce your vehicle’s excise duty is to convert it to an ‘alternative fuel’ such as LPG. 

This isn’t feasible for most people, as the conversion costs over £1,500 in most cases, but if you intend to keep your car for a long time, and it’s particularly thirsty, it might be worth considering. 

If you receive PIP, you may be eligible for a road tax reduction. So be sure to check out the .gov guide 

If you’re in the market for a new car, though, check sites like 

 to find cars sorted by the lowest tax band. The other advantage is that those types of cars usually get better MPG, too.

 is often the largest one-off bill when running a car. The average premium hovers around the £450 a year mark, but this drastically increases if you're under 25, have any driving convictions, or are in a job deemed risky to the industry. 

or intentionally deceive about details such as who drives the car, your job, the car's modifications, and where you live. This offense will cause many more issues down the road - including criminal charges and fines - always be honest with the insurance company. 

That said, there are a few legitimate ways to help reduce your premiums, such as: 

Cars are complex machines with lots of moving parts and complex systems. Because of this, they need regular maintenance and sometimes repairs. Alongside your 

, these can contribute to a significant chunk of the overall cost of running a car. 

 is an annual inspection of roadworthiness but does not include servicing. For more information on what an MOT contains, check out our guide 

One way to help with car repair costs is to check your car regularly. Annual service is the ideal time for this to be done. The mechanic can refresh the various fluids and check for excess wear and damage, allowing you to plan your repairs in advance. 

Preventative maintenance can also reduce the likelihood of being stranded at the side of the road and costly towing/recovery fees. 

to learn more about the benefits of regular servicing or to see what's generally included in a service. 

If you have a major service or repair coming up and you are worried about being able to cover the bill, Bumper's zero-interest 

 could be ideal for you. It allows you to split the cost into easy-to-manage monthly instalments at 1000s of garages and dealerships nationwide. 

Fuel prices fluctuate along with the economy and global 

, and recent increases have been attributed to some of them due to the war in Ukraine. However, the cause of the price increase isn't the biggest issue for most. The strain on their wallet is. 

Increasing your car's efficiency may not appear to have much effect, but it can have a significant impact over a year of driving. We've detailed some great ways to increase your economy below: 

It may seem obvious, but it’s easy to not realise how much using your car for short journeys can amount to, especially considering its effect on your vehicle. 

are designed to work best at an ‘operating temperature’ of approximately 90 degrees Celsius. Short journeys will not get the engine up to temperature, and as a result, it will return worse fuel economy than normal. 

Simply adjusting your driving style is the easiest way to 

, and it can have a much bigger impact than you might think. 

One way to reduce fuel consumption is to look further ahead. Acceleration is the enemy of 

, so any time you can avoid coming to a complete stop, you will save fuel. 

Prime examples are when a car in front is slowing to turn. Pre-empting the stoppage, increasing the gap to the car, and slowing down gradually allows you to retain more of your car's momentum. 

The heavier the object, the more energy it takes to move it. This applies to cars, too. It’s part of the reason 

 get worse fuel economy than light, compact cars. 

If you’re carrying around extra weight in your vehicle, that will affect your fuel consumption. Things like extra water bottles, tools, and other stuff all take effort to haul around. 

Spend half an hour sorting your car out and save money! 

Tyres play a huge role in how your car drives, affecting braking, steering, and fuel economy. Think back to how much harder it is to ride a bicycle with a 

. Now imagine that but on a car weighing well over 1,000kg. 

Check your handbook for the optimum pressures. They depend on how much weight you’ll be carrying and must be adjusted to ensure braking and road grip are unaffected. 

A significant amount of the energy required to propel your car along is used to overcome the vehicle's aerodynamic drag. However, this is not directly proportional to speed; the faster you go, the more energy is needed. 

In real terms, this equates to a worse MPG figure the faster you go. For example, travelling at 60mph can save up to 

compared to travelling at 70mph. In most cases, this will barely impact your journey time at all. 

Cooling down the air inside your car takes quite a bit of energy. The air conditioning system is driven directly from the engine. Naturally, this will sap an amount of power from the engine, not used for propulsion. 

It's estimated that using your car's air conditioning can reduce the MPG by 

, saving you money. If you can't do without your air conditioning, then at least make sure it is as efficient as possible by getting an 

Differing engine types have weaknesses and strengths. For example, diesel engines are inefficient in cities, while 

Google Maps route planner allows you to select your engine type. The best route will be selected based on where your car will be most efficient. 

Eco-friendly routing is found within the app’s settings, and more information can be found 

For more information on fuel consumption, check out our

, which also helps identify the possible causes of poor fuel consumption. 

Working out a budget that covers the average car running costs and unexpected repairs can feel impossible. However, with 

’s services, you can split the stress of surprise repairs into manageable monthly payments, allowing you to cover your car’s usual costs without making any sacrifices. 

 with Bumper. Choose from 1000s of reliable garages and dealerships nationwide. 

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 five cars, Joseph dreams of owning an Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale.

The Average Car Running Costs & How To Budget Them

What's the one thing a dad likes more than telling a dad joke? Hearing one. That’s why we’ve compiled a handy list of 17 best dad jokes you can use on your Father’s Day 

We’d say you can finally get your own back, but he’ll most likely find them more hilarious than you do. 

17 Dad Jokes for Your Father’s Day Road Trip 

When buying a car the last thing you want to be dealing with are mechanical faults. Unfortunately, there are some occasions where this might occur. You'll want to know where you stand if something goes wrong. 

In this article, we will explain your rights if you acquired a damaged car on finance and how to remedy the matter. 

What Should I Do if I Bought a Faulty Car on Finance? 

If you have a loan for a new or used car and you uncover an issue with the vehicle and you are certain that you did not cause the problem. Go over your auto finance agreement as a first step, to find out about the terms and conditions and how much coverage is offered. 

Following that, you must contact the car credit provider and describe the problem, whether it is an engine problem or something else. You have the right to make a complaint, however, you must explain to the car dealer how you detected the flaw. 

What Counts as a Fault With Your Vehicle? 

A fault is defined as anything that interferes with the operation of your vehicle. Severe issues include the engine shutting down, the windows not operating, or a drivetrain problem, these are major issues which could result in further action by the car dealer i.e. a refund or repair. 

Small issues, such as the inability to adjust the seats, the 

(that was not disclosed at the time of purchase), must be addressed by your dealer. You are not usually entitled to a refund for these issues. 

If the parties cannot agree on whether a fault is minor or major, we recommend getting legal advice from the 

What Are My Consumer Rights for a Faulty Car Bought on Finance? 

The same regulations apply if you bought a new car via a finance package such as PCP or Hire Purchase. The 

 might be quite helpful in the situation of a damaged car purchased on credit, so let's have a look at it. 

The Consumer Rights Act of 2015 protects customers from financial loss if they acquire a poor-quality product or service, including cars and associated equipment and services. 

As a precaution, thoroughly study the terms and conditions of your auto financing agreement to see if your car dealer has included information on what would happen if a problem with the vehicle occurred. 

If things get problematic after speaking with the vehicle dealer and you are being made accountable or billed for the fault, you can always contact the financial ombudsman for free or seek legal assistance. 

Can I Return a Car on Finance if It’s Faulty?

If you've bought a faulty car on finance, your rights depend on whether you purchased from a dealer or a private seller. 

If you bought the car from a dealer, you are protected by the Consumer Rights Act 2015. This act states that the car must be of satisfactory quality, fit for purpose, and as described. If the car is found to be faulty within the first 30 days, you have the right to reject it and request a full refund. 

If you discover the fault after 30 days but within the first six months, you can request a repair or replacement. If the dealer cannot fix the issue within a reasonable time, you may still be entitled to a refund, potentially with a reduction in usage. 

If you bought the car privately, your rights are more limited. The car must still be as described, but the seller isn't obliged to ensure it's of satisfactory quality or fit for purpose. You may have a case if you can prove the seller deliberately hid the fault or misrepresented the car, but resolving disputes with private sellers can be more challenging. 

In both cases, it's essential to act quickly upon discovering the fault and notify the seller immediately. Consider consulting a legal expert if you're unsure of your rights or if the seller is uncooperative. 

The most common claim made by car buyers is the right to repair or replace. The legislation recognises that mistakes happen and that dealers should be given the opportunity to correct them. Yet, this raises concerns for many customers, such as: 

Whatever happens, you must keep the finance company informed at all times and ensure that it is well documented by retaining copies of letters and emails - any correspondence via telephone should be noted in an email after the fact. 

It is possible to reject a car from a dealer, there are three possible avenues to achieve this: 

Rejecting a car after 6 months becomes more complex, as UK law states that the onus is on the consumer to prove the faults were present during the first 6 months of ownership. Without this proof, the issue becomes the responsibility of the vehicle owner. 

If the car finance firm denies your request to return a financed vehicle, you can file a complaint with the financial ombudsman agency. The Ombudsman, often known as the Financial Ombudsman Service, is a free organisation entrusted with investigating and adjudicating complaints regarding consumer-regulated finance arrangements. 

The car finance company is bound by FOS decisions. Last year, however, only 30% of people who filed a complaint with the financial ombudsman were successful. The situation is exacerbated in large part by customers who do not know how to file a complaint or how to prepare their cases to maximise their chances of success. 

The FOS was established to settle complaints "quickly and with minimal formality" and to serve as an alternative dispute resolution mechanism. Customers are not required to file "legal filings." 

For the best chance at successfully disputing via the FOS, follow their guidelines on their website, and take great care to file the documents and details correctly. 

What to do if you can't afford repairs to your financed car? 

If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of having a broken car, with finance still outstanding and after passing the 6-month threshold, there are still a couple of options available. 

Some garages will buy broken cars with the intention of fixing them and re-selling them. The issue comes when the residual value left in the car as is, is less than the finance amount. 

Another option is to sell the car for spares, to a breaker or dismantler. Again, the value of the car would have to be very high, and the remaining finance low for this to work. 

Get your car fixed by spreading the cost, interest-free 

thousands of partner garages across the country. 

To get started, check out where your nearest partner is. 

 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.

What to Do If Your Car Is Faulty On Finance 

Congratulations on passing your driving test! While a brand-new supermini with CarPlay and Hybrid technology might be ideal, it's not always realistic.

Fortunately, there are plenty of affordable, reliable, and safe second-hand cars in the UK. Your first car is memorable not for its luxury, but for the freedom and excitement of driving. The key features to look for are safety and reliability. 

In this article, we’ll highlight the best first cars for new drivers in the UK and what you should look for when car shopping.

So what are the best first cars available now? We’ve selected a list of good first cars you should consider before you hit the road.

We’ve also divided the options into different categories, so there’s something for every need and budget. Car research has never been so easy.

Let’s start with the most affordable cars for first-time drivers. You won’t break your budget with these under £2,000 options!

As of now, there are over 30 Mazda 2s on Autotrader for under £2,000, some with less than 80,000 miles, including a few in the eye-catching vivid green popular on Mazdas from 2008 to 2011.

We recommend the 1.3L petrol engine—reliable, chain-driven, and capable of achieving around 40 mpg while still offering enough 'pep' to keep the drive fun.

Suzuki has a strong track record with small petrol engines, and the Swift has always been a popular choice. The 2005-2010 model offers a comfortable driving experience with excellent reliability.

If your budget allows, go for the 1.5L engine over the 1.3L, as the 1.3L's gearbox can be a bit weak and 

 It's not a dealbreaker, but be sure to check the first three gears before buying.

The Ford Fiesta has been a favourite since 1976 and remains the most popular car on UK roads.

Though it has grown into the 'small-compact' category, it's still an ideal choice for first-time drivers. For £2,000, you'll likely find a Mark 5 (2002–2008) or Mark 6 (2008–2016) model with under 100,000 miles.

The 1.25L engine is renowned for its reliability and helps keep insurance costs low, while the 1.4L petrol offers a better balance of power and fuel economy.

The Volkswagen Polo is an excellent choice for new drivers due to its reliability, ease of handling, and comfort. 

Its compact size makes it easy to manoeuvre and park, while its well-designed interior ensures a pleasant driving experience. The Polo also comes with modern safety features for added peace of mind. 

A used 2017 model with about 60,000 miles typically costs around £900, offering a budget-friendly option with basic trims and less powerful petrol engines.

Have a budget of up to £5,000? Before you Google 

The Toyota Aygo can be found for under £2,000, but £5,000 will get you a 2015 or newer model with fewer than 100,000 miles. On Autotrader, you can find models as low as £1,000 if you really want to save.

It closely resembles the current generation, so it still looks modern. Available with a 1.0L petrol or a rare 1.4L diesel, we recommend the 1.0L. 

It's a reliable, rev-happy, and economical Toyota engine, and with basic maintenance, you should have no major issues.

Similar to the Aygo, the Citroën C1 (and Peugeot 107) shares the same foundation but features different body panels and badges. However, for the same price, the C1 often offers more features and fewer miles.

Like the Aygo, you can also find the C1 for as low as £1,000. However, the majority of sellers list this car around £2,500 to £3,500.

Be sure to check the service booklet, as Toyota recommends annual servicing, while Citroën suggests every two years—something to keep in mind.

If you live in a city with tight parking and don't need much space, the Toyota iQ is a great choice. It offers a lot in a small package with smart design and tech. The only engine option is a 1.0L petrol, usually paired with a 5-speed manual gearbox. 

For £5,000, you can find a good 2013 model with under 80,000 miles, though there are also options around £3,000 if you're looking to save.

The Volkswagen Up is a fantastic option for new drivers due to its reliability, compact size, and efficiency. Its small footprint makes it easy to handle and park, ideal for city driving. 

The interior, while compact, is well-designed for comfort and practicality. For safety, the Volkswagen Up includes essential features that enhance driving confidence.

If you're on a budget, a 2016 Up with 60,000 miles in mid-spec Move Up trim is around £5,500. Prices can drop to £4,000 or less for earlier models with 75,000 miles.

Good first cars for long-distance driving

If you have a longer commute, a supermini might feel tiring over time. It could be worth opting for something with a bit more power, comfort, and better soundproofing.

If you’re seeking more refinement and better motorway cruising, the VW Golf is an excellent choice. The 1.6 or 2.0 diesel engines are both reliable and economical, and since they're not particularly sporty, insurance quotes might surprise you.

For £5,000, you can find a 2014-2015 Mk7 model, which still looks modern. However, Autotrader usually has plenty of options above and below this price point.

Volkswagen doesn’t always pack in extras, so look for models with cruise control, climate control, and all-round electric windows for added comfort.

Known for comfort and safety, Volvos might not be the first choice for new drivers, but with a wide range of engines and low insurance groups, they’re worth considering. 

The V40, a medium-sized hatchback, offers excellent passenger comfort and compact dimensions, making it easy to park. New drivers should opt for the 1.6 petrol or diesel versions, avoiding the larger 2.0 or 2.5 engines.

You can find good examples for under £4,500 with fewer than 90,000 miles. While tech features may be basic, all of Volvo's renowned safety features come standard.

If you need a spacious family car, these options provide ample room for passengers, luggage, and pets, all while being a great value and affordable to insure.

Built on the Ford Focus platform, the Mazda3 is a larger vehicle compared to the others mentioned, making it ideal for new drivers who need to transport family members or children frequently.

Mazda's petrol engines are well-regarded, while the diesels have had some issues. We recommend the 1.6 Tamura specification for a good balance of economy and power. 

You can find plenty of Mazda 3s around £4,000, but if you’re looking to spend less, older models with higher mileage are available for £2,500 to £3,000.

Dacia, a reliable name in affordable, practical vehicles since its UK debut in 2013, offers the Logan MCV—a spacious estate car with an impressive 573 litres of storage. 

With various petrol and diesel engine options, we recommend the 1-litre petrol with a manual gearbox for the best reviews.

Logan MCVs are typically priced around £6,500, but you can find cheaper options on Autotrader. Given its excellent storage space and durability, the investment is usually worth it.

The SEAT Ibiza is an excellent option for new drivers seeking a balance of space and practicality. Its spacious interior comfortably accommodates passengers, making it a versatile choice for everyday use. 

The Ibiza also stands out for its generous luggage space, providing ample room for shopping, sports gear, or weekend getaways. This makes it a great choice for those who need a practical car with room to spare — but aren’t ready to opt for an estate car.

Additionally, the Ibiza can be purchased for as little as £3,000 from resale websites.

In the past decade, the number of people in the UK passing with an auto-only licence has doubled from 550,000 to 1.1 million. If you’re one of them, this next section is for you!

While automatics used to be reserved for larger engines due to their sluggishness and limited gears, modern auto transmissions are much improved.

 has been offering high-quality cars at great prices.

The Fabia, based on the VW Polo, is a compact hatchback that comfortably seats four adults. We recommend the 1.4 TSI petrol or the 1.4 TDI diesel, both paired with a good automatic gearbox.

A 2015 model costs around £8,000 with reasonable mileage, but you can find options for £6,000 if you balance price and miles, or as low as £2,500 for older, higher-mileage models.

Kia’s Picanto is a fantastic choice for new drivers due to its compact size and low insurance group. It’s especially appealing if you need an automatic, as the auto gearbox has received excellent reviews.

Unlike many cars of this size that use semi-automated gearboxes, the Picanto features a more reliable traditional automatic paired with a lively 1.25L engine.

For around £6,000, you can get a 2015 model with electric windows, climate control, and the sought-after automatic gearbox. Plus, Kia’s service plans offer added peace of mind that it’s been well-maintained.

If reliability is your top priority, consider the Honda Jazz. Its 1.4 engine is a timing chain-driven model with no cambelts to replace and achieves over 40 mpg.

For around £6,500, you can find a well-equipped, tidy 2014 Honda Jazz with a CVT gearbox. While it may take some getting used to compared to a traditional automatic, it's dependable and offers a refined driving experience.

The Jazz features smart design elements like folding seats and handy storage, making it a compact yet spacious option for transporting four adults.

The Peugeot 108 is a smart choice for new drivers, particularly those seeking an automatic transmission. Its compact size makes it easy to handle and park, ideal for urban driving. 

What makes this even better is that the 108 offers a smooth automatic drive option that simplifies gear changes, enhancing driving comfort and ease. This feature is especially beneficial for new drivers who may find manual gear changes challenging. 

Used prices typically range from £4,000 to £5,000, making it an affordable option for those seeking both practicality and style.

The 17 Best First Cars For UK Drivers

A driveshaft is vital for transferring engine torque and power to the wheels, making its proper maintenance essential for your car's performance and safety.

In this blog, we'll break down driveshaft replacement costs, explore average prices in the UK, highlight key signs that your driveshaft may need replacing, and share some expert tips to help you save money on this vital repair.

Average driveshaft replacement cost in the UK

The average driveshaft replacement cost is 

Your final cost will depend on numerous factors, such as:

Worried about car repair costs? With Bumper you could benefit from 

Keep in mind that these are just rough estimates. The actual cost of driveshaft replacement will depend on various factors, including the specific problem with your vehicle and the repair shop's labour rates.

Front driveshaft replacement costs typically range from 

, depending on the make and model of your vehicle and the location of the repair shop.

Rear driveshaft replacement costs are usually higher than front driveshaft replacements, with prices ranging from

Driveshaft replacement costs based on car make

The make and model of your vehicle will play a significant role in determining the cost of driveshaft replacement. 

Here are some examples of costs for popular UK car models:

Split the cost of a driveshaft replacement 

Bumper knows a large repair bill like a drive shaft replacement is the last thing you want to spend your money on, but essential parts such as shocks are crucial for you and your family’s safety. 

Look after your car and your bank balance by splitting the cost or repairs into monthly instalments, interest-free. 

The driveshaft is a critical part of your car's drivetrain, connecting the transmission to the wheels. 

It transmits power from the engine, enabling the wheels to turn and move the vehicle. Without it, the engine's energy wouldn't reach the wheels, making the car impossible to drive.

 or differential (depending on whether it's a front-wheel drive or rear-wheel drive car) to each wheel. This allows for smooth vehicle movement and acceleration.

 The driveshaft is also known as the propeller shaft.

How to save money on a driveshaft replacement

Now you know the driveshaft replacement costs in the UK, it’s time to talk about saving money on these repairs. 

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