Annabelle Clarke

PR Manager

Annabelle Clarke | Author

Eduardo Rodrigues

Content Writer

Claudia Tuñón

Isobel Coughlan

Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

Alastair Shephard

The average used car driver spends around £1,300 a year on repairs and maintenance.

Most spend £30–£35 monthly at the garage and about £65–£68 on fuel, which has risen 20% since the cost of living crisis. Costs can be much higher for unlucky drivers or for more premium used cars. 

In this blog, we break down average repair costs and share tips to keep your used car in top condition.

Average repair costs for used cars by brand

When something goes wrong with your car, it can be good to check what the typical prices are for fixing problems on your specific make and model. This helps both with budgeting, and ensuring you’re not getting overcharged when visiting a garage. 

Below are some average car repair costs, listed by brand and most common repair types. Bookmark this page so you don’t lose them.

Luckily, you can make surprise bills less likely. There are 

 options that you can turn to if you want to split the cost into interest-free repayments. However, regular upkeep of your used car is the best way forward. 

Yes, in many cases, older cars are cheaper to repair. 

New vehicles need costly dealer tools and access to proprietary data, while parts for older models are generally easier and cheaper to source.

If your car is very old or no longer in production, parts can be hard to find, which pushes up repair costs. On the other hand, older cars with readily available parts and workshop guides are cheaper to fix. Keep this in mind when considering average repair costs. 

Another reason older cars are often cheaper to maintain is that main dealer garages typically charge £100+ per hour, meaning even a simple oil change can cost over £100 before parts.

Yes, some used cars are covered by warranties. 

If your used car still has some time left on the original manufacturer's warranty, you'll still be on their standard maintenance packages and cover schedule. 

However, the warranty has already expired for most used car owners, so you have to pay for each service and part individually. 

Do I have the right to return a used car? 

Yes, you have the right to return a used car. 

, you can return something faulty and secure a full refund within 30 days of purchase. 

The Act states the car must be “as described,” “fit for purpose,” and “satisfactory quality.”But don’t assume that you can return it for a new model. The Act takes into account the used car’s age and mileage.

Where is the best place to buy a used car? 

The safest way to buy a used car is through a dealer, especially via approved used schemes that often include 30-day return guarantees. 

Check the fine print, though, as some schemes offer an exchange rather than a refund. Options and conditions vary between retailers, so always take your time to research before you buy.

When is it not worth it to repair a used car? 

Buying a new car usually makes sense when repair costs start to exceed your current car’s value, often after years of use or if parts are hard to find. You might also consider a new car if yours is written off or needs a major, expensive repair. 

There’s no hard rule for trading in a used car — it also depends on your personal attachment and your budget.

What costs the most to fix on a used car?

Major engine repairs, transmission replacements, and turbo or hybrid system fixes usually cost the most to repair on a used car — or any car in general.

The exceptions are with luxury and premium car repairs. These drive higher costs due to expensive parts and specialist labour required for complex repairs.

Which used car parts have the highest value?

Engine components, transmissions, turbochargers, and hybrid or electric system parts are the priciest to replace in used cars.

Outside of those, brake systems, suspension components, and body panels also add up, especially on premium or imported cars with higher labour and parts costs. 

Regular maintenance is the main way to prevent these expensive repairs from piling up.

Typically, keeping a vehicle for 8–12 years is reasonable, but selling or upgrading sooner may make sense if repair costs exceed the car’s value or reliability declines.

As with any time or cost-related questions, the ideal car lifespan depends on mileage, maintenance history, and your total repair costs. Compare these costs to the price of a new car to know for sure.

6 ways to save money on car maintenance costs 

1. Keep up with the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule 

Even if your used car is out of warranty, it’s worth following the manufacturer’s service schedule. 

Delaying maintenance may save money short-term, but minor issues can quickly become costly repairs.

On average, UK drivers spend around £60 a year on car washes.

Regularly cleaning your used car, including the underside, prevents grime from affecting moving parts and helps protect paint, glass, and mirrors. 

: The average car’s lifespan is seven to eight years. If you wash your car at home, you could save £800 from your maintenance costs. 

Getting more life from your used car is often as simple as driving with care. 

Avoid resting your foot on the clutch after gear changes, steer clear of potholes, and brake gently. These habits reduce stress on the clutch, transmission, suspension, tyres, and brakes. 

Over time, careful driving prevents premature wear, keeps components running smoothly, and helps you avoid expensive repairs, ensuring your used car remains reliable and safe for longer.

Electric vehicles are increasing in popularity, so there’s also a growing market for used EVs, and lower repair costs are part of the attraction. 

Alongside being more sustainable, EVs are rightly hailed for being cheaper to maintain. Their motors contain fewer moving parts, and perhaps most importantly, charging an electric vehicle is significantly cheaper than filling a tank with diesel or petrol.

The latest industry research shows that electric cars are about 25% cheaper to maintain than cars with a traditional petrol-fired internal combustion engine. On average, that equates to savings of about £300 annually. Nice. 

Following on from point four, electric cars have far fewer moving parts than petrol or diesel vehicles, making them simpler in principle. However, repairs like bodywork or suspension often cost the same.

Servicing is easier, with only 2–3 systems needing attention compared to 10+ on combustion engine cars.

If you’re willing to sit through a few YouTube videos and learn how to handle essential car maintenance, you can save a lot of money every year by keeping your used car away from the mechanic. This goes for minor repairs like simple replacements like filters and fluid top-ups.

You're paying for parts and labour when you take your used car into a garage. In many cases, some shopping around will locate the same parts for less than the mechanic will charge you.

But don’t tamper with anything you don't understand! It’s best to contract a professional for the tough repairs.

Predicting repair costs is a necessary evil. However, we hope this guide has helped you plan for the future and navigate upcoming used car repairs. 

Understanding what is the average cost to repair a used car can help you stay prepared. So, you can use the tips in this blog to reduce future repair costs and keep your car safe on the road. Safe driving!

Bad luck can catch anyone out when it comes to used car maintenance. 

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.

What Is the Average Cost To Repair a Used Car? UK Prices

Cars can be a blessing and a curse. It's all plain sailing one day, and then a new squeak or rattle arrives to ruin the mood. 

Knowing the common car problems UK drivers face from month to month and knowing how to address them can save you stress and money from 

. If you have a pretty good idea of what’s causing a problem, you’ll be better able to decide if fixing it can wait for a week or two, or if it needs urgent attention and you better take it to a garage asap.

Most car problems and issues in the UK are well known and are usually experienced by every driver at one time or another. The good news is that most of them aren’t serious, they do, however, serve as a warning that more serious problems with your car might arise further down the road. 

This post explains the 18 most common car problems in 2023 to look out for and what you can do about them. 

Squealing brakes are a common problem for most British cars. You’re driving down the motorway and notice a squeak when braking. 

Squeaking brakes could be due to issues with brake pads and rotors, or callipers and frames. Don't just turn the radio up and drown out the sound. Faulty brakes is a serious issue for cars, have your brakes checked by a professional ASAP as you might need to get your 

If you’ve noticed your car ride is bumpier than usual, it might be an issue with your shock absorbers or springs. Your shocks are responsible for ensuring smooth rides, 

 handling, and longer tyre life. If they wear out, you might notice a loss of vehicle control and general drivability issues. If it takes longer to stop, or you notice uneven tyre wear, get it checked. Fixing your suspension earlier could save you from a serious car issue like the suspension system collapsing. 

Expensive car repairs can be a headache, split the cost with interest-free monthly instalments from Bumper.

The ignition system includes the car’s battery, starter, and the ignition button or key assembly on the steering column or dashboard. If any of those components aren’t 100% ship shape, the engine won't turn over or you’ll be at risk of engine failure while you're driving, which you can problem guess, isn't a cheap car problem to fix. 

Everyone knows you need well-inflated tyres with good treads that are suited to the season and weather. Without those basics, you can degrade steering control and sacrifice fuel efficiency. That's why it's essential to get your tyres looked at whenever you run over a sharp object like a chunk of broken glass. 

 if they are well looked after, so if you spot any issues, then you’re better off heading straight to the garage. If you notice a leak or the tyres look worn out, don’t wait. Get them patched or replaced. 

The alternator is responsible for keeping the flow of electricity throughout the car’s systems in balance after the car has started. It also keeps the battery at the right charge level, so it remains in good condition. If the alternator fails, your battery will run out of juice prematurely and you’ll likely notice problems at startup. To avoid an alternator fault, you should have it checked regularly. When issues are found, it's best to replace the alternator and avoid the risk of a bigger problem occurring later. 

If you’ve recently noticed that your car is thirstier than normal for new oil and you’re constantly seeing the oil warning light come on then you might have a problem. Changing your oil regularly is important to make sure the engine doesn’t corrode or block the oil filter. 

Sometimes your car’s steering wheel can start to wobble or shake when you’re driving. If it happens when you’re driving at speed on the motorway, it often indicates a problem with the tyre or wheel balance. The best way to discover the cause is to have the car checked by a professional. 

The radiator keeps the car engine at the right temperature, so leaking fluid can lead to overheating and breakdown in engine oil viscosity. Rust is usually the cause of radiator leaks, though they can also be caused by poor 

, manufacturing defects, or poor-quality engine fluids. When a leak happens, it's normally better to replace a radiator rather than rely on a patch. 

While technological improvements have made failed spark plugs a less common issue than they used to be, old or defective plugs still cause problems. They can still stop your car from starting or running, while damaged connectors can cause other problems with the car’s electrical systems. Find out 

An engine that simply won’t run is obviously a major problem, and unfortunately, it’s a common problem in the UK. It can be caused by any number of component or system failures but is more likely to happen in older vehicles. You’ll need a qualified mechanic to tell you for sure what’s happened and what can be done to get you back on the road again. 

Often cars that are having problems with their engines will also be thirstier than normal with low fuel economy. The engine will consume more fuel than normal if the fuel filter, air filter, mass air flow sensors, and O2 sensors are dirty or need replacing. That’s why it’s so important to stay on top of your servicing.

 come on can be one of the most frustrating facets of owning a car. It can be caused by a myriad of issues, and sometimes comes on when there isn't any other mechanical symptom to indicate you have a problem. There is a long list of warning codes to check when the warning light starts shining so get it checked by a professional mechanic to find the root cause. 

A small car problem but a problem nonetheless, and a 

 There’s not much you can do to watch out for bulbs as they tend to just fail through normal wear and tear. 

Unusual weather or a storm can cause more debris on the road which can they fly up and crack a windscreen. Even something as small as a pebble can cause a crack if it’s going fast enough. Cracks in the windscreen need to be sorted quickly as it means the windscreen is not as strong, so could eventually spread and shatter.

 last for between two and three years, but batteries dying before their time is a frustratingly common occurrence. If your car sits unused for long periods, the battery can simply lose its charge since it isn’t being replenished normally by the engine. 

If you keep to your car’s recommended maintenance schedule and address any other issues as they arise, the automatic transmission in today’s vehicles is normally good for 200,000km or more. Automatic transmissions use hydraulic components and have numerous gaskets and seals that can be damaged by dirt or leaks. When that happens, the transmission can slip or cease running smoothly. Which is why 

Older cars tend to struggle with emission problems and as electric vehicles become the norm, then this problem should fade out. In the meantime, though, you’ll need to make sure your emissions systems are up to par, as something like a faulty o2 sensor could cause more problems further along.

Initially, you might think rust is not a major problem for a car but if you don’t fix the issue then it can be dangerous. If rust manages to penetrate the surface of your car and spreads into the frame, then you have a serious structural issue on your hands. 

Small issues tend to get worse over time, but the good news is that small and cost-effective repairs now can stop you from paying thousands on a 

major repair bill later that you can’t afford

 — you just need to catch the issue early. Keep your car in good condition and keep your and your family safe on the road.

 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.

18 Most Common Problems & Issues

The cost-of-living crisis is having an enormous impact on the way many of us live our lives. A recent survey by 

 found that the way we drive is no exception. Of the 2,000 surveyed, 69% said they had significantly changed the way they drive since the beginning of the year. 

To make a saving on fuel costs, drivers are significantly reducing the number of journeys they make in their vehicles. 35% of drivers said they had cut down on the number of journeys they make. 

40% of petrol drivers had cut down since the start of 2022, with only 22% of electric and hybrid drivers cutting down. 

Electric and hybrid vehicles are well-known to be cheaper to run. This survey found that of the electric and hybrid owners 17% had switched from a vehicle using an internal combustion engine to keep costs down, whilst 4% had sold their vehicle without replacing it. Hybrid vehicles are built to last longer as well, so you don't have as many expensive repairs to keep up with, like 

hybrid batteries which can last up to 11 years

21% of drivers said they now drive more smoothly and try to avoid harsh braking and 14% were now driving slower than they were at the start of the year to conserve fuel. 

It was discovered 1 in 10 motorists were now regularly checking their tire pressure and 11% had taken unnecessary items from their vehicle in a bid to make it lighter on the road. 

The cost-of-living hike has had a big impact on motorists. Luckily, Bumper has a solution. Our digital PayLater solution allows customers to split the cost of repairs, at no extra cost. 

Applications are completed online in just a few clicks. Plus, our proprietary AI-enabled lending software allows us to make real-time, responsible lending decisions in less than 5 seconds. 

For more information about how Bumper can transform your customer experience, 

Motorists change driving habits due to cost of living

The dealership of the month for April 2022 goes to Lexus Edgware Road.

The win follows an outstanding month for the Jemca site using Bumper’s PayLater to allow customers to split the cost of their repair bills into monthly payments, completely interest-free. 

Team Jemca met with Bumper account manager Alex on site to deliver the award, which has had a brand-new redesign.

Starting in November last year, the team has helped hundreds of customers drive away with their repairs and finances in check. A special shoutout is necessary for Ash, who is a bit of a Bumper expert! 

Well done to Ash, Wing, Joseph, Ankit, Renaldo, and Phil. 

Join the Bumper network and get access to our digital PayLater solution, allowing customers to split the cost of their repairs into monthly instalments, completely interest-free. 

For more information on becoming a partner 

The Dealership of the Month: Jemca Edgware Road

Those who rely on our car to get to work or manage the school run know how disruptive unexpected repairs can be. Leaving your motor at a garage for an 

 is bad enough, but what if you have a breakdown or your MOT finds a major issue?

You know it's going to cost a lot. And let's face it — you probably haven't set money aside. 

If you're in this situation, a car repair loan can be a great way to finance the bill. But what if your credit rating isn't great? Can you still get a car repair loan with bad credit? 

The good news is: 'probably yes'. Let's look at what a 

 entails and how to secure bad credit car repair loans. Scroll down to start learning now. 

A car repair loan is a loan or credit line designed specifically to cover car repairs. 

Most of the lenders specialising in car repair loans recognise that major repairs often land without warning, so they make sure they have a solution. 

Can you get a car repair loan with bad credit? 

Yes, there are car repair loans for bad credit. Though most lenders offering financing would prefer that a customer has good credit, there are loans for people with poor credit, too. 

If you opt for a car repair loan for bad credit, you may have to pay higher fees or take on a less attractive interest rate. But on the upside, you'll be able to pay your bill and keep your car on the road. 

It's also worth looking into the car repair loans manufacturers now offer. Just bear in mind that not every dealership signs up to participate. And when they do, you may have to go in person to complete an application. 

After that, the number of payments you can spread the cost over is often restricted to two or three. For repair jobs above £2,000, the approval processes and credit checks can be more stringent. 

Why is it difficult to find bad credit car repair loans?

Finding loans for auto repair with bad credit can be challenging but not impossible. 

 to have more risk, as they typically come with a 

. Lenders are less likely to give loans to individuals with bad credit to protect themselves and ensure they get their investment back. 

From opening a new credit card to defaulting on payments, credit scores can drop for many reasons. However, once it lowers, it’s hard to build back your score and secure a car repair loan — especially if you need one ASAP. 

It often seems like the credit system is designed in favour of the lender. However, it protects individuals, too. If you have bad credit, these regulations restrict how much you can borrow, but this also protects you from higher interest fees and penalties if you miss payments.

If you need auto repair financing for bad credit, you likely need the cash as soon as possible. While these five tips won’t raise your 

 this second, they will help you apply for more credit in the future. 

Get your FREE credit report with Checkmyfile 

to see what lenders may see when they check your report. Try it FREE for 30 days, then £14.99 a month. Cancel anytime.

Can a car loan credit check lower your credit score?

Yes, car loan credit checks can potentially 

This is because you have a hard credit check every time you apply for a loan. Hard checks are visible to all lenders and drop your score from 1 to 5 points per check. Luckily, they’re not permanent, and you can raise your score after a few hard checks. 

However, it’s best not to shop around for car loans without considering all the options first. 

Do non credit check car repair loans exist?

No. No credit check loans don’t exist in the UK, as lenders are required to complete credit checks to assess the borrower’s risk. 

Companies that advertise no credit check car repair loans will still need to check your credit history. However, they might be able to accept applicants with lower credit scores. These tend to come with high interest rates, though. 

Credit is a popular option for last-minute car repairs. However, if you have bad credit or are avoiding taking out more loans, you might want to consider alternative payment options. 

While no credit check car repair financing is popular, it’s not your only one. So, check out all the options before making a decision. 

How to get car repair loans with bad credit

Today, getting a loan for auto repair with bad credit is quick and simple. 

As digital technologies continue to transform how we buy and pay for services, 'buy now, pay later’ (BNPL) platforms are giving consumers more options to pay for things flexibly. 

 is the leading BNPL platform. We let you split a hefty repair bill into smaller, easy-to-manage, interest-free payments. To find a 

Step-by-step instructions for bad credit repair loans

Ready to secure auto repair financing for bad credit? Here’s how you can get started today. 

When agreeing on the cost of the repairs, just give your garage the 

 Code. They’ll send a link to your smartphone, where you can choose how to spread out the payments. Pick the number of months and fix a date to complete the payments. You can even use Apple Pay or Google Pay to set it up. 

 ensures you never pay more for servicing or repairs when spreading the cost. And the maximum credit limit you’ve been offered is never shared with the garage. 

So, if car repairs suddenly become necessary, consider your financing options. 

Car repair loans for bad credit - Final thoughts

Navigating a last-minute car problem is never pleasant, especially if it comes with an extortionate bill. However, it doesn’t have to be stressful or limited by your credit score. Hopefully, this blog has helped you find a solution for your financial needs. 

 we’re committed to giving car owners more financial flexibility by taking the worry out of unexpected car repair costs and helping bring the automotive aftermarket into the digital age. 

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.

Can You Get Car Repair Financing With Bad Credit?

Car repair bills often turn out to be more expensive than expected. Sometimes, other emergency bills arise before you can cover the cost of the garage.

No matter the reason, if you can repay your car repair, it can put you in an awkward situation. 

In this article, we’ll explain what happens if you can’t pay for 

your options, and whether a garage can keep your car. It’s all going to be okay — now, let’s get into it. 

Yes, a garage can keep your car if you refuse to pay.

However, be aware that under UK law, mechanics can lien your car if you don’t pay the bill in full within 30 days. 

A lien is a legal claim on property, such as a car, which must be cleared before you can take it back. You might have to leave your car in the garage until the bill is fully paid.

To avoid that happening, you might want to put part of the bill on a 

credit card or consider a dedicated auto repair loan

Yes, if you can’t afford to pay your car repair bill, check your car insurance policy.

Your insurance might cover the costs if your repairs are due to accidents, vandalism, theft, or extreme weather (e.g. 

). However, this largely depends on your policy coverage level. 

What are your car repair financing options? 

If your auto repair bill is more than you expected and you can't afford to pay it, you have some options. Here are six ways you can tackle the situation: 

If a repair estimate seems high, politely ask about cheaper options.

Garages may use less expensive parts or adjust labour costs without compromising quality.

Can a mechanic use used parts to repair my car?

Yes, using reconditioned parts or parts from a breaker can often save lots of money on repair bills. 

Certain parts, such as AC compressors, alternators, gearboxes, and more, can be bought and used online. We advise against using used safety-critical parts like brakes or steering unless professionally reconditioned.

A good way to find second-hand parts for your car is to search on places like eBay. There, you can select ‘used’ under the condition filter and often find breakers listing the exact part.

You can search for general breaking ads, such as “Ford Fiesta 2010 breaking, if there isn't a specific item”. 

These items are usually listed for a token amount - say £1.00. From this listing, contact the seller to ask if they have the required component.

Garages often hesitate to fit used parts and may refuse parts they haven’t sourced. 

Explain your situation, but note this usually voids any warranty since the parts lack a guarantee. If you’re comfortable with this, the mechanic might agree to help.

If multiple repairs are suggested, ask to prioritise the most urgent ones. Spacing out the work helps manage costs, as long as deferring doesn’t pose a safety risk.

Not all car issues need immediate repair, but minor problems can worsen over time. Ask your mechanic if urgent repairs are needed and what might happen if they're delayed.

If the brakes, steering, suspension, exhaust, or engine are faulty, avoid driving until they're fixed. 

Paying this bill in instalments is better than not paying at all.

If you can’t clear your car’s repair bill in one go, ask the service centre if they’ll let you break it into multiple payments. 

Some garages will let you do this or may even offer their basic in-house financing for large repair jobs. 

Some garages are more expensive than others, depending on the time, tools, and expertise they have available.

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