As we prepare for a summer of fun and some time away with family and friends, our Summer Travel Series will be looking at top tips for cost-effective travel and how to keep those smaller passengers entertained, as well as our recommended routes and stop-offs along the way. 

One of the most popular holiday destinations in the UK is always Devon and Cornwall, nestled into the South West of England, featuring both wonderful sandy beaches and ample green space. 

If you’re travelling from the South or South East across to the West, one of the most scenic routes you can take is the A303 through Wiltshire, past the famous Stonehenge on your right as go. If you have time, you could plan a stop over here for a leg stretch and to enjoy the mysterious venue on the iconic Amesbury Hills. Booking is recommended and can be done in advance via the 

As well as Stonehenge itself, you’ll see all the ‘Barrows’ which are the ancient burial grounds from 5,000 years ago as you glance across the plains. 

If you’re travelling on the A303, it’s best to select a time of day other than during rush hour! Although it's beautiful and steeped in history, the lanes merge into one and it can get pretty congested during those busy times of day. 

Follow the A303 and join the A30 at Exeter to sweep past Dartmoor National Park in South Devon. Or if you’re heading for the Northern parts of the counties, head to join the A39 and pass through Exmoor National Park and onto those famous narrow Cornish lanes, the deeper you head West! 

As well as pasties, ice creams and many different attractions, Devon and Cornwall are famous for their beautiful beaches. If you’re looking for soft sand and lots of space for all the family – including the 4-legged kind – Daymar Bay in North Cornwall is highly recommended. Tucked away and neighbouring popular surfing beach Polzeith, 

 is stark in contrast with serenely calm waters and is bordered by sand dunes and sand hills. Head here for a lovely day of relaxation on the beach, or if you’re feeling energetic, you could head for a walk up the steep Braey Hill and explore St Enodoc Church within the dunes. 

If you opted for the A303, there are, of course, fewer choices when it comes to service stations than on a motorway. However, there are still some good ones along the way. Solstice services at Amesbury are rated 3 stars according to Motorway Services Online and offer a range of food outlets including a KFC, McDonald’s and a Taco Bell Drive-Thru, a Harvester Bar and Grill and a Toby Carvery. This is as well as those all-important facilities such as Co-op petrol, EV charging points, cash machine and car washes. 

If you’ve driven down the M5 from the north of England, Which? has rated Gloucester Services as their best service station in the UK. It has an incredible customer score of 86%. Apparently, the designer feel, roof carpeted with grass, floor-to-ceiling windows and pond out the front all make for a rather premium visit! There’s a well-stocked farm shop with produce such as baked goods and regional cheeses on offer. Home-cooked meals such as fish and chips and steak and ale pies are also on the menu. Visit 

We’ve already mentioned Stonehenge as a recommended stop-over point, but we do also have some other suggestions. 

With more than 500 sites including historic houses, castles, archaeological and industrial monuments, gardens, parks, and nature reserves across the UK, it’s impossible to have a favourite National Trust place to visit. However, Stourhead is located just off the A303 before Warminster and provides the perfect place for a comfort break, a bite to eat and a leg stretch for all the family, including the 4-legged kind! 

It does have rough terrain, however, so check 

For a slightly longer stop, Wildwood Devon is situated just off the A30 at Exeter and is open from 10am-6pm most days. 

Set in 45 acres of parkland and woodland, there is plenty of space to let off some steam after being sat in the car and plenty to see and do as well. Featuring endangered native species such as the iconic red squirrel, Wildwood is perfect for nature lovers. As well as the wildlife, there is a soft play, an authentic Saxon Village and a beech hedge maze to keep everyone entertained. Check out 

2023 Summer Travel Series – Your Journey to....the South West 

Scotland is famous for its rich culture, gorgeous landscapes, and lively cities. But what about the journey there? If you’re travelling by car from England the journey can seem long. To keep you entertained along the way you may want to opt for a more scenic route. Perhaps through the Yorkshire Dales, Cumbria or maybe even the Northumberland National Park. Whatever your route this summer we’ve got some exciting suggestions for your journey to your next Scottish adventure. 

The first must-stop on your way up North has to be The Bowes Museum in Barnard Castle. With outstanding collections of, art fashion and design, this French-style public museum and gardens is a hidden gem the whole family can enjoy. Craft areas, playgrounds and hunts around the museum are sure to keep the kids entertained for hours. When you’re done, the café has plenty of options including a Sunday roast. Plus, daily homemade tray bakes. 

Located in the heart of the Pennines of North East England, the museum’s home, Barnard Castle, is just off the A66. A short 20 minutes by car from Scotch Corner (A1) and 40 minutes from Penrith (M6). Day tickets are £18.00pp and can be booked in advance on 

Of course, you cannot take a trip through the North of England without making a stop at Hadrian’s Wall. A former frontier of the Roman Empire, work began on the wall in AD122. The construction of the 73-mile wall took 6 years to complete, running from Solway Firth to the aptly named Wallsend. 

Perhaps the most notable of all the destinations along the wall is Houseteads Roman Fort. Set high on a hill next to Hadrian’s Wall, this ancient fortress allows visitors to wander the Roman barrack blocks, a hospital and take a peek at the oldest toilets you’ll probably ever see! 

Tickets are £9.50pp and can be booked on the English Heritage 

If you fancy getting out into nature, why not try the A68 through the Northumberland National Park. The unique and special surroundings of the park are home to some interesting sights. 

Thought to have special healing powers, this huge sandstone boulder was placed in the park by a glacier during the last Ice Age. The stone was originally called the Dragon Stone or Draak’s Stone and is believed to have been used by the druids. 

After William Winter and his sisters robbed and brutally murdered a woman in her home just north of Elsdon, the three criminals were caught and executed. In 1792, William’s body was placed inside an iron cage to act as a warning to other criminals. 

This poignant memorial is dedicated to the airmen who lost their lives over the Cheviot hills during the Second World War. 

After all that sightseeing, you’ll probably fancy a bite to eat. Early on in your journey to Scotland, we have one of the best-rated service stations in the country – Wetherby (A1). Named as 5

 best in the country according to one ranking, this service station has been compared by one reviewer as ‘better than the Sistine Chapel’. 

With a wide range of choices, including Burger King, Costa Coffee and Greggs, you’ll be sure to find something you like. There are also opportunities for a spot of shopping in Marks and Spencer or WH Smith. If you’re looking for a place to stay, the services house a Days Inn Hotel. 

If you’re travelling to the West of Scotland why not try Tebay (M6)? Hailed as one of the UK’s most famous service stations, Tebay is a family-owned site in a scenic part of the M6. The two North and Southbound buildings offer great views of a special part of the country. A duck pond, farm shop and caravan park make the site a cut above your standard motorway service station. 

Cumbrian lamb and native beef raised on their very own farm are served in the service’s kitchen, which uses locally sourced ingredients. 

Once you’re across the border into Scotland, why not get stuck in and sample some Scottish cuisine at 

 in Jedburgh. With Scottish Teas, Nachos smothered in Scottish cheese and, of course, Haggis on flatbread, this quaint café also offers vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. 

If you fancy sitting down for a nice meal at a restaurant – The 

 might be the place to add to your travel plans. Opened in 2015 this independent restaurant creates small seasonal menus that change each month, which often have fresh local ingredients and dishes made by hand. Also on the menu are locally roasted Luckie Coffee and beer from the Tempest Brewery. 

For a family-friendly option, you could try The Gun at Ridsdale. Offering an ever-changing range of choices, their sample menu boasts bangers and mash, 8oz Sirloin or rump steak and cauliflower katsu curry. For the kids, options include fish fingers and cheese and tomato pizza – which are always sure to go down well! 

2023 Summer Travel Series – Your journey to... Scotland 

For 3 days in mid-June, team Bumper came together for our second annual Bumper Retreat. This time around, we all met at the glorious Platja d’Aro in Costa Brava, Spain for all things good for the soul – great company, great food, and some vitamin D in the form of gorgeous sunshine.

With activities planned throughout the week, including a surprise event at the end of the trip, this was a fantastic opportunity for the whole company to come together since it has more than doubled since the inaugural retreat in 2022. More importantly, it allowed for teams who solely work remotely to be together in person and strengthen their working relationships.

After coming together from different corners of the world throughout Sunday, Monday morning brought our twice-yearly in-person Company Update – a chance for each department head to present what they’ve achieved in the previous 6 months, and what they have planned for the following 6 months. 

Going into this, we were told we would be starting with an ice-breaker… No one enjoys a cheesy ice-breaker. Enter Robbie (COO) and Dan (Head of Sales), who put together a super engaging and funny ice-breaking session, including a Rock, Paper, Scissors championship, a round of Bumper Bingo, and a Whodunnit quiz about our co-founders Jack & James. 

The rest of the update featured presentations from all teams across the company, detailing their roadmaps for the year, what they had already achieved, and even some special mentions for colleagues who had gone above and beyond so far this year.

The retreat also was the opportunity for the People team to officially launch our new Guiding Principles – an evolution of the company values that were developed by colleagues. These Guiding Principles are there to provide a framework to colleagues for aligning their actions and behaviours with our company Mission and Vision. They are there to act as a map and compass for all decision-making at Bumper, and will help to define and shape our company culture. Everyone at Bumper is encouraged to think critically about how they align with these Guiding Principles, and how we can use these behaviours to all work The Bumper Way. 

On Monday afternoon, we split into groups and went on some planned team building activities; kayaking in the sea, cycling through the old town, and wine tasting in a valley with a scenic view (they required an equal amount of energy…). The kayaking featured a run in with a school of jellyfish and our CEO being chauffeured around. 

The cycling group got to explore the cool shaded woodland and cobbled medieval streets, all accompanied by Ingo’s Bumper cycling shirt; and the wine tasting group had an insightful tour around the winery and then sat on a shaded terrace and sampled the delicious wines made at Clos D’Agon Bodega.

After some free time to chill by the pool, explore the town, or head to the beach, we then embarked on our surprise activity – a boat trip on a Catamaran! Featuring a DJ and a stop to swim in the Balearic Sea, this was the perfect way to round off a great trip, though maybe not for the unlucky few suffering from seasickness.

So what about next year? We’re already thinking about where we would like to go next, with suggestions flooding in such as a forest retreat, a wellness spa, or just simply more of the same. Whatever we choose, we look forward to hopefully doubling in size again, and having another chance to connect and bond with our colleagues in person.

Sun, Sea & Strategic Planning

The 2023 cost of living crisis presents significant challenges for UK consumers. It is also a time when the automotive aftermarket can deepen its connection with customers, and engender trust by offering innovative payment options that lift the financial pressure a little.

Customers are looking for ways to reduce spending at the moment, and the emergence of new digital payment systems means that franchise dealerships can capture a greater share of the market. 

Furthermore, consumers are keeping hold of their cars to save money, which in addition to disruption of the new car supply chain, is pushing up used car values. People are also postponing vehicle repairs, or choosing cheaper lower-quality options, offering the opportunity for aftersales businesses to service older vehicles likely to require more repairs on a consistent basis. 

Challenges in the automotive aftersales market 2023

The cost of living crisis is heavily influencing car-buying decisions, with people shying away from larger purchases. So significant is this financial crisis that car repairs and servicing are also being postponed due to a lack of cash. 

Although the growth of electric vehicles (EVs) means fewer service visits for drivers, the repairs can be more expensive. Dealers are also likely to want to retain gas-powered vehicles for as long as possible due to servicing revenues. 

As the cost of living continues to soar, the following statistics reveal the severity of the situation for UK consumers: 

So where does this leave the automotive aftermarket in 2023?

How can dealerships capitalise on rising digital trends?

New digital payment technologies provide flexibility, control, and security to customers. Good communication is key, however, if aftermarket businesses are to capitalise on these advancing payment systems. 

Actively promoting open banking facilities and other innovative payment solutions, such as Buy Now, Pay Later, is vital to attract a new demographic, retain existing custom, and consolidate order books for the future. 

Open Banking provides an opportunity for automotive businesses to stand out from the crowd. It enables customers to make vehicle and aftersales purchases directly from their bank account. This removes the involvement of third-party credit card and debit card companies and saves merchants the considerable cost of using their machinery and service. A further key benefit of Open Banking is the speed of payment, with the merchant receiving funds within seconds. 

Buy Now, Pay Later in particular is a significant payment system in this cost-of-living crisis, which dealerships, independent garages, and service centres, can also benefit from. In fact, Buy Now, Pay Later solves a multitude of problems. 

So what are the benefits of new digital payment systems and BNPL for merchants and consumers? 

Benefits of Buy Now, Pay Later for merchants

The global pandemic has accelerated the move towards digital payment in the automotive industry and aftersales sector. In fact, Bumper expects open banking to be the main method of payment used by car dealerships by 2030. 

To find out more about how Bumper's suite of payment options can help you digitalise your aftersales department, head to the partner sign-up page on our website.

Why is Bumper Relevant in 2023?

We are proud to announce Western Motors Drogheda as the Dealership of the Month for May 2023. This accolade recognises Western Motors' outstanding commitment to customer satisfaction, service quality, and their contribution to the automotive community. 

Bumper's Dealership of the Month award highlights one of Bumper’s top-performing garages in the United Kingdom and Ireland. Each month, one dealership that exemplifies excellence and consistently goes above and beyond for their customers is selected. Western Motors Drogheda has proven to be a shining example of exceptional automotive service, making them the deserving recipient of this prestigious recognition. 

"We are thrilled to recognize Western Motors Drogheda as our Dealership of the Month for May 2023," said Melanie Timmins, Bumper Business Development Consultant for The Republic of Ireland. "Their commitment to exceptional service and their dedication to customer satisfaction align perfectly with our values. We are proud to partner with Western Motors and support their efforts in providing a fantastic automotive experience for all." 

Congratulations to Shauna, Susan, Rianna, Ross and the whole team at Drogheda on your impressive win. 

Western Motors Drogheda Named Bumper's Dealership of the Month for May 2023 

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 

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. 

A driveshaft replacement can be expensive, but there are ways to save and prevent future costs:

Regular vehicle maintenance, including checking your driveshaft for signs of wear and tear and 

 can help you identify potential issues before they become severe and costly problems.

Getting multiple quotes from different repair shops

 before settling on one is essential — even if you've been loyal to a garage for years.

This will help you find the most competitive job price and ensure you're not overpaying for the service.

If you have the skills and confidence, replacing your driveshaft yourself could save money. 

However, it's a complex, time-consuming task, so it's usually better to leave it to a professional if you have no training or experience.

A well-maintained driveshaft lasts 100,000 or more.

However, the lifespan of a drive shaft can vary based on several factors, including usage, driving conditions and maintenance.

If the vehicle is frequently driven on rough terrain or in 

extreme weather conditions such as snow or ice

, this can cause additional wear and tear on the drive shaft, resulting in a shorter lifespan.

4 signs you need a drive shaft replacement

A drive shaft replacement doesn’t come out of nowhere. Here are some signs a driveshaft repair might be in your future.

 could indicate a damaged or worn-out driveshaft.

especially at high speeds, making driving uncomfortable and potentially leading to more serious damage if ignored.

or unresponsive, jerky steering could also point to a driveshaft issue. Get this checked out ASAP!

cracks, or rust, is a clear indicator that replacement is needed.

Is it safe to drive with a bad driveshaft?

 — driving with a bad drive shaft is not recommended as it poses safety risks for you and other road users.

If it snaps while driving, you will lose power to that connected axle, or it could even fall and get stuck in the car. Head to a garage as soon as you suspect a driveshaft issue.

Replacing a driveshaft is complex and best left to a professional

, as it involves removing the old part, installing a new one, and potentially dismantling components like the suspension or exhaust.

Additionally, replacing a driveshaft can vary depending on the type of vehicle, as each may require a unique approach.

For example, front-wheel-drive cars typically have shorter drive shafts that are easier to replace than those on rear-wheel-drive trucks or 

Replacing a driveshaft without proper knowledge can cause further damage or injury. It's best left to a trained mechanic with the right tools and equipment.

How Much To Replace a Driveshaft? The Conclusion

The driveshaft is crucial for your vehicle’s performance, and any signs of damage should be addressed promptly. Hopefully, we’ve helped you estimate your potential costs and plan your 

Driveshaft replacement costs can be higher than expected, and that’s where Bumper 

Split the cost of expensive car repairs into interest-free monthly repayments and 

How Much Does A Driveshaft Replacement Cost?

¿Cuánto cuesta sustituir un eje de transmisión?

Wie viel kostet der Austausch der Antriebswelle?

Coil spring replacements cost an average of £220 in the UK, as a coil spring is an essential component of your car's suspension system. 

It's responsible for absorbing shocks and maintaining the correct ride height. A broken spring on a car can cause significant trouble.

In this blog, we will discuss the factors that affect coil spring replacement costs and provide tips on how to save money on this essential maintenance task. 

How much does it cost to replace a coil spring?

The cost of a coil spring replacement in the UK is between £180 and £300.

The cost of replacing the front coil springs is around £220, while it's a little cheaper at £180 for the rear coil springs. 

Different garages and dealerships charge different rates, so it's worth shopping around to find the best price.

 can also help you split the cost into interest-free repayments.

Coil spring repair costs vary significantly depending on the car manufacturer. 

Generally, premium and luxury brands usually have higher parts and labour charges due to more complex suspension systems and pricier components. 

Here are some average costs for popular UK brands:

Where you live in the UK can also affect the cost of coil spring repairs. 

Prices tend to be higher in London and the South East, reflecting higher labour rates and operating costs for garages. Northern regions often see more competitive pricing. 

How long does it take to repair a broken coil spring?

Front coil spring replacements can take between one and three hours. Rear coil spring replacements are shorter and usually take between one and two hours. 

In general, the length of a coil spring repair depends on the spring being repaired, its complexity, and the mechanic's experience. 

Do coil springs need to be repaired together?

Coil springs must be replaced as pairs per axel. This means the front two together and the back two together. You don’t have to do the front and back pairs at the same time, though. 

Factors affecting coil spring replacement cost

When it comes to replacing a coil spring in your vehicle, several factors can impact the overall cost of the job. 

There are several reasons why coil spring parts might break or fail over time, such as wear and tear, corrosion, impact damage, and manufacturing defects.

One major cause is age and wear. As the coil spring is constantly compressed and expanded during normal driving conditions, it can experience metal fatigue that eventually leads to a break.

Another factor that can contribute to coil spring failure is corrosion.

When exposed to moisture, salt, and other corrosive elements on the roadways, the metal in the coil spring may weaken over time. This makes it more prone to breaking when subjected to sudden stresses or impacts from potholes or other hazards on the road. 

A corroded coil spring costs the same as a standard broken coil replacement.

Impact damage alone is another common reason why coil springs might break unexpectedly. 

A strong jolt from hitting a pothole or running over debris in the road can put sudden and excessive force on the spring. This can result in significant damage or even complete failure of one or more coils within the spring. 

Although rare, manufacturing defects may also lead to premature failure of a car's coil springs. 

Poorly made products can have weak spots that aren't immediately apparent but could worsen as they're used under typical driving conditions.

Common symptoms indicating that a coil spring might need a replacement include:

Yes, coil springs weaken over time, often due to constant compression, corrosion from UK road salt, and general wear. Weak springs lower ride height, affect handling, and may lead to uneven tyre wear.

Check your coil springs monthly or if you notice any issues by looking for cracks, corrosion, or bends. 

If you suspect damage, have a professional mechanic inspect them rather than tamper with them, as diagnosing coil spring problems can be tricky without expert knowledge.

Driving with a broken coil spring is unsafe as it affects your vehicle’s handling, braking, and overall safety. It can also damage other suspension parts or tyres, leading to costlier repairs and increased risk for you and other road users.

Yes, a broken or significantly damaged coil spring is considered an MOT failure in the UK. It is essential to address any coil spring issues before your vehicle's MOT test to ensure it passes and remains roadworthy. 

How do I know if my coil springs have gone?

You can spot failing coil springs if your car sits unevenly, rides lower than normal, bounces excessively over bumps, or feels unstable while driving.

But with all potential car problems, listen and look for unusual handling changes. If it feels like something’s off, it’s always best to get it checked out to prevent further damage and costly repairs.

Yes, many mobile mechanics in the UK can replace a coil spring, provided they have the right tools and safe working space. Complex jobs may still require a garage visit.

How to save money on coil spring replacement

Coil spring replacement can be an expensive and time-consuming task, but there are ways to save money without sacrificing the quality or safety of your vehicle.

That wraps up the coil spring cost UK guide. These steps help keep your car in good condition and reduce long-term costs.

As always, if you suspect you have a broken coil spring, visit a professional for expert advice and don’t tamper with your vehicle if you don’t have experience with cars. Better safe than sorry!

Alastair Shephard

Content Writer