Kia, Jaguar, Peugeot – if car manufacturers love one thing, it's a good logo redesign. But with so much change underway in the motor industry, it can be tough to stay on top. 

Why not test your car brand knowledge with our free online car brand logo quiz? Get started below!

How many of these car brand logos do you know?

When your car suddenly starts squeaking, rattling, or making any other unusual engine noises, it’s usually a sign that something’s off. The good news is that strange car noises are often early warning signs, which means a timely intervention could save you from expensive repairs.

Let’s walk through nine common car noises, what might be causing them, and what to do next.

1. Why is my car making a noise when I turn?

If you hear clicking, knocking, or a grinding noise while turning your car, it’s often linked to issues with your CV joint, power steering system, or suspension components.

What should I do about a noise when turning?

If you hear clicking, knocking, or whining when turning, avoid driving long distances until it’s inspected. Check your power steering fluid level if you can, as low fluid can cause whining sounds. Clicking or clunking often points to worn CV joints or suspension parts, so have a mechanic look at it promptly to avoid further damage.

How much does suspension repair cost in the UK?

2. Why is my car making a rattling noise?

If your car is making a rattling sound while driving (or even idling), it usually means something under the bonnet or near the exhaust system is loose or worn out.

What should I do about a rattling noise in my car?

Check under the car when it’s cool for any visibly loose heat shields or exhaust parts. If the rattle gets louder while idling or driving, book a mechanic appointment soon. Rattles can be harmless, but they can also point to failing exhaust mounts or catalytic converter issues that need attention.

How much does it cost to replace an exhaust?

Ticking noises are usually an early sign of issues with your engine’s lubrication system of valve components. You might notice the ticking more when the engine is cold, or after the car’s been sitting for a while. While some ticking noises can be harmless, others can lead to performance issues or even severe damage if left unresolved. So, what causes ticking sounds in a car?

What should I do about a ticking noise in my car?

Start by checking your engine oil level and condition. If the oil is low or dirty, top it up or change it to see if that helps. If it continues, don’t ignore it – have a professional mechanic check it out. 

50% of UK drivers delay repairs due to cost

, and many end up paying the price with bigger, more expensive problems down the line. 

4. Why is my car making a squeaking noise?

If your car makes a squeaking sound when braking, accelerating, or starting up, it’s usually down to something worn, loose, or under stress.

What should I do about a squeaking noise in my car?

Start by checking the likely causes: brake pads, the serpentine belt, and the clutch if you drive a manual. If the brake pads look thin or worn, replace them as soon as possible. 

If the squeak happens on cold starts or when you accelerate, have the serpentine belt inspected for wear or tension. And if you hear it while changing gears, get the clutch checked. A quick visit to a mechanic can confirm the issue and prevent bigger problems later.

5. Why is my car making a whistling noise?

A whistling noise while driving usually means air is escaping from part of your engine, often through a cracked hose, vacuum leak, or damaged seal. The sound can be high-pitched and may get louder when accelerating or idling. This is one of those noises that’s easy to overlook, but it could be masking a much bigger problem with your engine’s air-fuel mixture.

What should I do about a whistling noise in my car?

Check for any obvious leaks in vacuum hoses or the intake system and listen carefully when the engine is idling. If you suspect a loose or damaged hose, avoid driving long distances until a mechanic inspects it, as air leaks can affect performance and fuel economy.

If one of these car noises turns into a real issue, don’t panic about the bill. With Bumper’s interest-free 

, you can avoid a lump-sum payment and handle the cost like a pro. It’s a smarter alternative to a traditional car repair loan, with no interest and no stress. 

6. Why is my car making a knocking noise from the engine?

If you hear a knocking or thudding noise from your engine, especially when accelerating, there might be some abnormal combustion or worn internal components.

What should I do about a knocking noise from the engine?

Stop driving if the knocking is loud or persistent, as it could signal serious engine damage. Check your car’s oil level and fuel quality, then book a professional inspection as soon as possible. Engine knocks can quickly worsen if left untreated. 

7. Why is my car making a scraping noise when driving or braking?

A scraping or grinding sound (especially when slowing down or turning) usually means some friction between parts of your car. It’s a noise you should never ignore, as it’s often linked to your car’s braking systems or wheels. You might notice the noise gets worse when you press the brake pedal or drive at low speeds. 

Avoid driving until you find the cause. Check for debris around the wheels and look for signs of worn brake pads. If the noise persists or braking feels weaker, get your car to a mechanic immediately, as braking issues can be dangerous.

8. Why does my car backfire when accelerating?

during acceleration, this could be a backfire caused by fuel igniting outside the combustion chamber. While it sounds dramatic, it’s often down to a simple issue that can be easily corrected.

What should I do if my car backfires when accelerating?

Check your fuel quality and make sure your car isn’t overdue for a service. Backfiring often points to ignition or fuel system issues, so arrange a professional inspection quickly to prevent damage to your exhaust or engine.

9. Why does my car vibrate while driving?

If your car feels like it’s vibrating or buzzing at higher speeds, it’s usually a sign that something’s misaligned in the wheels, drivetrain, or suspension. These vibration noises often start small and build gradually over time. You might notice them in the steering wheel, through your seat, or even under your feet. 

What should I do if my car vibrates while driving?

Slow down and pull over if the vibration feels severe or the car is hard to control. Check your tyres for visible damage or low pressure, then book a wheel alignment or mechanical check to diagnose any worn suspension or drivetrain parts.

Fix now, pay later with flexible car repair finance

If you’re hearing something suspicious, don’t wait until it becomes a major repair. With Bumper’s 

 option, you can split the cost of your fix into interest-free monthly payments, without the pressure of a lump-sum bill. Apply online in seconds, or directly through one of 5,000+ trusted garages and dealerships across the UK. Start now!

Some car noises are perfectly normal and nothing to worry about. These include the hum of tyres on the road, a soft whoosh from the air vents, the gentle sound of the engine idling, and the clicking of indicators. Occasional brake squeaks in wet weather or a faint fan belt sound during a cold start can also be normal. However, if noises become louder, persistent, or unusual, it may be a sign of a developing problem that needs attention.

A healthy engine should run smoothly with a consistent, steady hum. It’s normal to hear a quiet ticking as fuel injectors work, a low growl when accelerating, or a gentle whirring from belts and pulleys. These sounds indicate that components are operating as they should. Loud knocking, rattling, grinding, or high-pitched squealing, however, are not normal engine noises and are usually caused by an issue that needs a mechanic’s inspection.

9 car noises to look out for (and what to do)

Whether it’s a tiny chip from a passing lorry or a long crack creeping across your screen, you’ve probably got one question on your mind when it comes to repairing a windscreen: 

The good news is, repairing a chipped windscreen is usually fast, simple, and far cheaper than a full replacement. Here’s your handy guide to windscreen chip repair costs, what affects the price, and how to make your next visit to the garage a little more bearable with Bumper. 

How much does it cost to repair a chipped windscreen?

In the UK, repairing a chipped windscreen typically costs £40–£70. The exact amount depends on the size and position of the chip, the type of vehicle, and your garage’s rates.

Smaller chips, especially ones that haven’t spread, can often be fixed quickly and affordably. But leave it too long, and that small chip could develop into a full crack, leading to a 

How do professionals repair windshield chips? 

Most professional windscreen chip repairs take less than 30 minutes if the chip is small, shallow, and hasn’t started to spread. 

How much does a cracked windscreen repair cost?

If your chip has turned into a crack, the cost increases quite a bit. Replacing a cracked windscreen in the UK can cost between 

Why is a cracked windscreen more expensive?

Replacing a cracked windscreen costs more than a simple chip repair because modern car windscreens are far more advanced than they used to be – often integrated with high-tech features that require specialist parts and extra labour, including: 

These need to be carefully removed, replaced, and recalibrated when the windscreen is changed. The result? More time in the workshop, higher part costs, and sometimes even specialist tools or software to reset the tech. Expect replacement costs for these kinds of windscreens to reach anywhere up to £1,000.

Windscreen repairs are becoming more frequent and more expensive. 

According to insights from insurance firm Allianz

, the average windscreen claim in 2024 reached £327, up from £308 in 2022 – a £19 increase in just two years!

And it’s not just individual claim costs going up; the volume of claims is increasing too. More drivers are reporting windscreen issues and needing repairs, particularly for small chips, which rose 4% in 2023 compared to the previous year. Full windscreen replacements saw an even sharper increase, up 13% year-on-year.

One of the key drivers? These modern, new-fangled windscreens! 

Claims for heated windscreens alone increased by 21% between 2021 and 2023. The rise of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)-equipped vehicles is also pushing costs higher. In 2016, just 1% of windscreen claims involved ADAS recalibration. In 2023, that number jumped to 44% (that’s nearly half!). As these systems become more common, repairs require precise recalibration of sensors and cameras to make sure the road safety features work properly.

Can you repair a stone chip in a heated windscreen?

Yes, you can repair a stone chip in a heated windscreen, but it might be slightly trickier. Heated windscreens contain ultra-thin heating wires embedded between layers of glass. These wires are designed to defrost your windscreen quickly in cold weather. If a chip or crack forms near or over these elements, it can be trickier to repair without damaging the heating system. That being said, a repair is usually possible if the chip is small, hasn’t spread, and if the heating elements aren’t visibly damaged. 

Your garage may recommend replacing a heated windscreen if: 

Ford’s original heated windscreen tech – dubbed “Quickclear” in the UK – first appeared in the 1980s Granada Scorpio, using a barely visible mesh of wires to clear frost in under three minutes. It’s now a staple feature on many mainstream models, though replacing one can still cost significantly more than a standard screen.

Windscreen chips are typically caused by sudden impacts from small, hard objects that have enough force to displace the glass they hit. Here’s a more detailed breakdown: 

Harsh UK weather (e.g. hail, heavy rain, and grit spread during winter) can lead to sudden impact or gradual wear on your windscreen. Winter driving increases the risk of a chip, especially on rural or poorly maintained roads. 

One of the most common causes of windscreen chips is loose stones or grit kicked up by other vehicles’ tyres, especially lorries and vans. These stones hit windscreens at high speeds and cause immediate impact damage to the glass.

Over time, windscreen glass becomes more vulnerable to damage. Older windscreens may have developed tiny surface cracks or weakened areas due to natural wear, making them far more likely to chip when hit with even small debris.

Faulty or worn suspension components can indirectly damage your windscreen due to increased vibrations or harsh jolts when driving over potholes or speed bumps. Over time, these can weaken the windscreen structure or turn a small chip into a larger crack.

How soon should I repair my windshield chip?

You should repair a windscreen chip as soon as you spot it. Chips can spread fast, especially with temperature changes or when driving over potholes. Not sure whether the chip needs repairing or replacing entirely? Here are some signs it might be too late for a repair:

What happens if you delay a windscreen chip repair?

If you leave your windshield repair too late, you risk the damage getting worse and making it much harder to legally drive on the road:

Get your windscreen chip repaired easily with Bumper 

A chipped windscreen repair cost is annoying, but it doesn’t have to be expensive or stressful. Get it looked at early, compare costs at your local garages, and pay your way with Bumper’s 

. We partner with over 5,000 trusted garages and dealerships across the UK to help drivers spread the cost of vehicle repairs into simple, interest-free, monthly payments – even something as small as a windscreen chip repair costs! Applying takes minutes and doesn’t affect your credit score. Get back on the road today without breaking the bank – 

Yes, repairing a windscreen chip is absolutely worth it. A small chip can usually be fixed for £40-£70. If left untreated, it can crack and require a full windscreen replacement, which can cost up to £400, especially on modern vehicles.

Can I get a windscreen chip repaired for free?

You might be able to get a windscreen chip repair for free with comprehensive car insurance. Some policies cover chip repairs without affecting your no-claims bonus, usually with an approved repairer. Always check for excess charges, any annual limits, and whether your garage is part of your insurer’s network.

Is it okay to drive with a chipped windscreen? 

It’s legal to drive with a chipped windscreen in some cases, but it’s not always safe. Driving with a damaged windscreen can: 

Windscreen chip repair cost guide

Listers Audi Birmingham has been named the latest site to win Bumper’s Dealership of the Month following a training session, encouraging the team to be proactive in offering Bumper and maximise every opportunity. 

The Midlands site has used PayLater to empower customers to make essential repairs to their vehicles since 2018. 

To build the confidence of service advisors across the division, Listers Audi arranged an internal training session with Group Trainer, Chris Kitson. 

Focusing on how to talk about the interest-free monthly payment option with customers, the training day empowered advisors with new tools to better engage customers. 

Ed Sanders, Aftersales Manager, shared some encouraging results. 

“We've seen a noticeable uplift in recovery rates, red work sold, and parts sold per throughput – a real positive for us as a dealer,” said Sanders. 

“The training has given the relatively new team a fresh perspective, and it's been great to see their growing confidence when it comes to presenting and selling.” 

With over a 100% increase in PayLaters this month, Listers Audi Birmingham has been able to make a real impact to their local community, keeping their customers’ vehicles safe on the road. 

Tom Cox, Listers Brand Director, said, “Great results so soon after the training, well done to Ed and the whole team at Audi Birmingham for your engagement and commitment.” 

Steve Tapp, Service Manager, said, “In May, we took a proactive step to enhance the way we present Bumper’s monthly payment options to our customers. Recognising the importance of clear, transparent finance solutions, we retrained all of our staff across both Audi and Skoda.

“Previously, Bumper was often introduced only as a backup solution during objection handling. Following the training, we have now embedded Bumper into the core of our service process. The bookings team are discussing the benefits of Bumper at the time the booking is taken, in addition to the advisors presenting the option upfront at the point of the Vehicle Health Check, ensuring that customers are made fully aware of flexible monthly payment options from the very beginning. 

“This change means our customers benefit from complete clarity and choice when it comes to maintaining their vehicle, while our teams are empowered to offer a more professional, consistent, and customer-focused experience.” 

This impact has already started to show in their customer feedback, with a 4.9 out of 5 rating on Trustpilot. 

One customer said, “The Service was really good. It was a warm welcome. Dealing with Reece was great.” 

“The whole Bumper finance experience was excellent and extremely user-friendly,” said another. 

Congratulations to Ross, George, Amy, Reece, Jake, Ed, Steve, and the whole team at Listers Audi Birmingham on your win! 

New team at Listers Audi Birmingham win Dealer of the Month following Bumper training day

How well do you think you know the signs on UK roads? Let's face it, no matter your driving experience, there's bound to be a few gaps in your Highway Code knowledge. Test your skill level with our free online road signs quiz.

And there you have it, our road sign quiz! How did you do? Are you ready to get back on the road, or should you book in for a Highway Code refresher course? Pass the quiz to a friend to see if they can beat your score. Thanks for playing!

QUIZ: How many of these road signs do you know?

Hora del reto: ¿Cuántas de estas señales de tráfico conoces?

Quiz: Wie viele dieser Verkehrsschilder kennen Sie?

New government figures have revealed the areas in the UK with the highest number of road traffic casualties, with Kent, Surrey, and Birmingham topping the list. Despite a slight drop in total incidents in 2024, the number of people killed on British roads rose, prompting calls for urgent action.

Provisional estimates from the Department for Transport show that 128,375 people were injured in road traffic collisions last year, including 1,633 fatalities, a 1% increase from 2023. Worryingly, motorcyclist deaths rose by 9%, while pedestrian fatalities increased by 2%.

The figures clearly show that while overall collisions may be declining, the severity of incidents is not. Fatalities are rising among vulnerable groups like motorcyclists and pedestrians, and that should be a wake-up call for national and local policymakers.

Kent, Surrey and Birmingham have consistently high numbers of casualties, and this year’s data only reinforces the need for targeted interventions in these hotspots. These aren’t just numbers – each one represents a life impacted by road trauma.

Young drivers aged 17 to 29 remain significantly overrepresented in road casualties, while older drivers account for a disproportionate share of fatalities. Road safety campaigns must do more to address these specific demographics with education and technology.

We support tougher penalties for high-risk behaviours like drug driving and not wearing a seatbelt. But beyond punishment, we also need better infrastructure, improved driver training, and smarter in-car safety systems – especially for those just starting out behind the wheel.

According to the data, the top 10 local authorities with the most casualties were:

While the Department for Transport has committed to releasing a new Road Safety Strategy, experts stress the need for swift and bold action.

Map Reveals the UK's Worst Areas for Road Incidents

It might sound like a harmless squeak – but ignoring a high-pitched noise under your car’s bonnet could lead to hundreds of pounds in engine damage. Experts have warned that a squealing sound could signal a worn fan belt – and spraying it with WD-40 might do more harm than good.

The fan belt, also known as the auxiliary belt, is a key engine component responsible for powering everything from your alternator and cooling fan to power steering and air conditioning. Over time, the belt wears out or stretches, and one of the first signs is a telltale squeaking or chirping noise when you start the engine or accelerate.

A squeaking noise from under the bonnet is often the first sign your fan belt is wearing out or has lost tension. It’s a really common issue – but the wrong fix could end up costing you dearly.

Many drivers instinctively reach for WD-40 or other lubricants, assuming the belt just needs a bit of oil to quieten it down. But Bumper warns that this DIY quick-fix could create a far more expensive problem.

Fan belts are designed to run dry. If you spray any kind of lubricant on them, it can cause the belt to slip off the pulleys while the engine is running – and that can lead to engine overheating or damage to critical components.

In older cars, the solution may be as simple as tightening the belt with a socket wrench. However, most modern vehicles are fitted with automatic tensioners, meaning if the belt is squeaking, it's usually because it’s too worn or stretched to work properly – and should be replaced.

If your car uses an automatic tensioner and it’s still squeaking, don’t ignore it. Either the belt has had its day, or one of the components it drives – like the water pump or alternator – could be starting to fail.

The cost of replacing a worn fan belt typically ranges between £100 and £200, but if the belt snaps or slips off while driving, the cost to repair the damage could be much higher – especially if it leads to engine overheating or electrical failure.

The advice is simple: don’t ignore the squeak, and never spray oil on a fan belt.

If you hear a high-pitched squeal when starting your car or turning the wheel, it’s time to book it in – not reach for the WD-40. That sound might be annoying, but it’s your car’s way of telling you something’s wrong.

Drivers Warned Squeaking Noise Could Cost £100s – and WD-40 Might Make It Worse

Drivers are being urged to take better care of their engines – and it could be as simple as heading down the motorway now and then. Experts have warned that cautious, slow driving habits may actually be doing more harm than good, increasing the risk of engine damage caused by carbon build-up – often referred to by mechanics as “black death.”

Most motorists try to protect their cars by driving gently around town, but this can unintentionally lead to long-term problems. One of the biggest risks is the accumulation of carbon deposits, which clog internal components, reduce fuel efficiency, and can eventually lead to engine failure.

If you’re constantly driving at low speeds – especially for short journeys – your engine never gets hot enough to burn off carbon deposits. Over time, this can lead to a build-up inside your valves, pistons and exhaust system.

Known as “black death” because of its thick, dark appearance, the deposits are a by-product of unburnt fuel and poor engine circulation. Left unchecked, they can harden and cause serious damage.

In the worst-case scenario, carbon build-up can cause your engine to seize – and replacing that could cost thousands.

Thankfully, there’s a simple solution – and it doesn’t cost a penny.

Modern engines are designed to be run at higher speeds from time to time. Taking your car for a steady drive on the motorway helps heat the engine fully and allows fuel to clean and lubricate components.

Petrol, when forced through the system at higher pressure, can act as a natural solvent – cleaning valves and piston rings as it goes.

Another warning sign to look out for is white foam or froth under the oil cap, which could indicate water condensation in the engine oil, often caused by short trips where the engine doesn’t heat up properly.

If you take your oil cap off and notice a milky substance, that’s usually a sign your engine isn’t getting hot enough to burn off moisture. It’s not necessarily a serious fault, but it can lead to long-term problems if ignored.

Again, a regular long-distance drive at a steady speed can resolve the issue. When you drive at motorway speed for 45 minutes to an hour, the heat generated by the engine is enough to evaporate condensation and prevent that build-up. Keeping up with maintenance and using preventative measures like these can keep your vehicle in a better condition for longer, and hopefully save your bank balance from taking a big hit too.

Alastair Shephard

Content Writer