Brake hoses are vital for your vehicle's braking system, transferring fluid from the master cylinder to the callipers, allowing your car to stop. Maintaining them is crucial, as worn hoses can reduce stopping power.

Need a replacement? Discover the average brake pipe replacement cost in the UK and read some common FAQs in Bumper’s guide.

brake pipe replacement cost in the UK £75 to £180. 

The cost can vary depending on factors like your vehicle’s make and model, location, and labour rates. 

The estimate above covers both parts and labour, but extra charges may apply if other components in the braking system need repair or replacement.

Worried about the costs? With Bumper you could benefit from 0% interest 

 and pay for car repairs in instalments in easy-to-manage monthly payments.

The average brake pipe replacement cost by car make

Here's a rough comparison of brake hose replacement costs for popular car makers in the UK. 

Keep in mind though that these figures are approximate and may vary based on factors mentioned earlier:

Your brake hose replacement cost depends on several factors, one of which is location. Below, we’ve included rough estimates for major UK areas.

Brake hoses are flexible tubes that connect the brake callipers to the metal brake lines from the master cylinder. 

They handle the pressure and heat from braking while allowing the suspension and brakes to move. 

When you press the brake pedal, brake fluid flows through the hoses to the callipers, which press the brake pads against the rotors to slow down your vehicle.

What's the difference between a brake hose and brake lines?

The main difference between a brake hose and a brake line is their flexibility and where they're used in the braking system. 

Both serve similar functions, there are some key differences between them:

There are two common types of brake hoses (pipes) used in vehicles: rubber brake hoses and stainless steel braided brake hoses.

Rubber brake hoses are a common, affordable choice for many UK drivers, as they're often factory-installed. 

However, they can wear down over time due to heat, moisture, and chemicals, leading to cracks or splits that compromise the braking system. 

Regular inspections and timely replacements are essential. Despite potential wear, rubber hoses remain a reliable option for those prioritising cost and performance, with maintenance being key to their longevity.

Stainless steel braided brake hoses are a popular upgrade for car enthusiasts due to their superior performance and durability. 

Though pricier than rubber or plastic hoses, they resist swelling under pressure, providing a more consistent brake feel. 

They're also more durable, less prone to cracking or wear, and ensure long-term reliability. 

While the initial cost is higher, the lasting benefits make them a worthwhile investment for those seeking better braking performance.

Unsure if you need a replacement? Some common symptoms of a failing brake hose include:

If you notice any of these signs, it's essential to inspect your brake hoses for damage and consider replacing them if necessary.

Delaying replacement can lead to further damage and compromise your vehicle's braking ability.

No. Driving with a damaged or broken brake hose is incredibly dangerous and puts you and other road users at risk.

If you suspect brake hose damage, it's best to play it safe and get a professional inspection right away.

Brakes are crucial for safety, and brake hoses transfer hydraulic pressure from the master cylinder to the callipers or wheel cylinders. A damaged hose can reduce stopping power and even lead to brake failure.

Watch for warning signs like soft brakes, excessive pedal travel, fluid leaks, or strange noises.

Ignoring these issues can lead to accidents and costly repairs, so maintaining brake hoses should always be a priority for drivers.

Yes, corroded brake pipes can result in MOT failure.

 They pose a significant risk to your vehicle's braking efficiency and safety on the road.

To maintain your brake pipes and avoid MOT failure:

 brake hose pipes can last between 8 to 15 years 

The average lifespan of brake pipes varies depending on factors such as driving conditions, exposure to moisture and salt, and maintenance habits.

Replacing your brake pipes offers significant benefits beyond improved braking performance. 

New pipes reduce the risk of brake failure due to corrosion or damage, keeping you safe and helping you avoid costly repairs. 

Investing in new brake pipes also gives you peace of mind, especially if you rely on your car for work or family. Proactively replacing worn-out pipes ensures reliable performance and safety, so don’t hesitate to consult a trusted garage.

No, you don’t have to replace brake hoses in pairs. However, it’s good to change them together as they’ve probably worn at the same speed. Your mechanic will likely advise this after a routine inspection.

How long do brake pipe replacements take?

brake pipe replacement to take around an hour and a half

This time can be slightly longer or shorter, depending on whether any other issues are found in the process and how long it takes to dismantle the vehicle. 

What happens in a brake pipe replacement?

Wondering why a brake pipe replacement takes 1.5 hours? Here’s what goes on while your car is being serviced.

Hopefully, we've given you some insight on common brake pipe replacement costs. There's no one cost for every car, but you can start to gauge how much your replacement will cost based on your make and location. 

Remember to consult an expert at the first sign of brake pipe problems! Maintaining your vehicle is critical to keeping yourself and other drivers safe. 

Bumper knows a large repair bill on your car 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

Join the Bumper community and get access to the best care for you and your car. Choose a dependable dealership and 

split your car repair bill into monthly chunks

How Much Does a Brake Pipe Replacement Cost?

Wie viel kostet es, einen Bremsschlauch zu wechseln?

We’re delighted to announce that Lookers BMW have been named Dealership of the Month for March 2023. The win follows an exceptional month for the Stoke-based team utilising Bumper’s payment options across the site’s service and sales departments.

Having recently completed Bumper’s refresher training course in February the site saw a sharp uptick in the usage of Bumper’s PayLater payment option allowing customers to split the cost of repairs, services, accessories, and value-added products into interest-free monthly instalments.

The award was presented to the team by Bumper’s Business Development Consultant for the Midlands and South West, Islay Horton. Islay is pictured below with Lookers BMW Stoke’s Used Car Sales Transaction Manager, Antony Hine, and Sales Executive, Daniel Price.

Islay, commented, “It’s terrific to see how the team here at BMW Stoke recognise the importance of offering additional payment options to customers. Their recent refresher training has really boosted the team’s confidence in discussing multiple payment options and it’s great to see the site and customers alike now benefiting from this. 

“It’s never been more important, at a time when we’re all feeling the pinch, that we enable drivers to carry out essential maintenance and access products that better protect their vehicles and wallets in the future.”

Pictured above, are Senior Service Advisor Jordan Eldergil and Service Advisor, Molly Plant.

A big well done to all the team at Lookers BMW Stoke! 

Lookers BMW Stoke Named Dealership of the Month

With the weather beginning to brighten up, many motorists might find themselves with the extra time and sunny weather needed to have a good clean out of their car.

Deep cleaning your vehicle not only makes it look nice, but it can also actually prevent costly maintenance bills down the line. With this in mind, we’ve outlined eight simple steps you can follow to ensure your vehicle is clean and ready to tackle the warmer months. 

Before you start on a deep cleanse of your vehicle, you should begin by removing all of the unnecessary clutter that you don’t need in your car. This can include rubbish and general waste, toys if you’re a parent and any other items that have accumulated over the winter months. Use a black bin bag to collect all of the rubbish and put any items that should be in the house back where they belong so you’re ready to properly begin spring cleaning your vehicle. 

Next, you'll want to give your car a deep clean. 

If you have fabric seats, now is the time to give them a thorough cleaning so you can fully enjoy them throughout the rest of spring and summer. You can use a special upholstery cleaner or you can make your own cleaner by mixing equal parts water and vinegar. Use a soft-bristled brush to scrub the seats, and then use a wet and dry vacuum to suck up the moisture. For leather seats, use a leather cleaner to remove any dirt or stains. 

4. Don't forget the carpets and floor mats

The carpets in your car can get just as dirty as the seats, especially if you live in an area with a lot of snow, ice and, therefore, salt on the roads. Use a carpet cleaner to remove any stains or ground-in dirt, then use a wet and dry vacuum to remove the moisture. If you have floor mats, be sure to clean them as well. Baking soda is particularly great for floor mats as it’s an odour neutraliser. However, avoid chucking your floor mats in the washing machine as it’s bound to damage the rubber backing on the carpet. 

Over time, the air vents in your car can become clogged with dust and dirt. As a result, this can reduce the effectiveness of your air conditioning and heating system, which might lead to you seeking a costly service much sooner than expected. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently clean the vents, then use compressed air to blow out any remaining debris. Repeat until there are no remnants. 

If your headlights are cloudy or yellowed, they’ll not only be less bright but you could even be hit with a fine for failing to keep them clear. 

After you've finished cleaning your car, it's important to protect the paint to avoid damage and, as a result, more unwelcome maintenance fees. Use a high-quality wax or sealant to create a barrier between your car's paint and the elements. This will help to prevent damage from UV rays, acid rain and other environmental factors which could lead to expensive touch-ups to the paintwork in the future. 

8. Check your tyre pressure and engine fluid levels

Lastly, now that the outside of your car is looking great, why not check under the bonnet to be safe? 

For a more in-depth check, see our guide to 

8 easy tips for spring cleaning your car 

 recently joined the Peak District National Park Foundation for a day of tree planting at Hordern Barn Farm to prepare the land for future climate change. 

The Peak District National Park Foundation is a charitable organisation raising funds for the conservation of the Peak District. Their vision is to preserve the park as a vibrant, colourful, and safe home for wildlife that can be enjoyed by future generations. 

Accompanied by experienced rangers, the team planted over 1,000 trees at Horden Barn Farm. The farm is typically a sheep farm but reserves some land to be restored as a natural habitat for the surrounding wildlife. After a previous unsuccessful attempt at tree planting, the area had been secured by a large wooden and wire fence. This was to protect the new trees from being eaten by deer. 

In addition to creating homes for local species, tree planting is often considered one of the best ways to fight the climate crisis. A young wood, mixed with a variety of native species, can remove over 400 tonnes of carbon from the atmosphere. In order to reach the Government’s goal of net zero carbon emissions by 2050, the UK’s woodland would need to increase from 13% of the country to at least 19%. That’s 1.5 million hectares of additional woodland. 

If you’d like to find out more about the work the Peak District National Trust is doing to preserve the Peak District National Park and how you can join the fight against climate change, you can visit their website 

Bumper Joins Peak District National Park Foundation to Prepare for Climate Change

Bumper se une a la Fundación Peak District para prepararse ante el cambio climático. 

JCB Euro SEAT & Skoda Crawley have been crowned Dealership of the Month for February 2023. 

The site has shown that by implementing Bumper's Open Banking product, they have been able to save time and money when taking payments for value added products across their sales department. 

 allows customers to make payments using their bank credentials direct to the dealership’s bank account. This avoids the use of third-party processors – which significantly reduces a dealership’s payment fees and is far faster (funds are received in a matter of seconds). 

Additionally, transactions require bank authentication within the customer’s banking app, mitigating the risk of fraudulent payments for the retailer. 

The trophy was presented on-site by Bumper Business Development Consultant, Jack McHale. Jack is pictured above with James Woodard who accepted on behalf of the JCB sales team. 

Jack said, “The JCB group were already a great Bumper partner with our PayLater solution and have implemented Open Banking into their sales & aftersales process, with Crawley taking the award for how quickly they adopted this new payment option since launch.” 

Congratulations to James and the team on your win! 

Reduce fraud and processing fees with Open Banking 

If you would like to discuss adding Open Banking to your existing Bumper account, get in touch via 

JCB Euro SEAT & Skoda Crawley awarded Dealership of the Month

On average, a ball joint replacement costs £90 in the UK.

Replacing worn-out ball joints is essential for keeping your ride smooth and safe, but the cost can be higher than expected.

In this ball joint replacement cost guide, we’ll break down the process and help you make a smart, budget-friendly decision.

How much to replace a ball joint in the UK?

The average ball joint replacement in the UK costs £90, but prices typically sit between £75 and £180, depending on your car and how many joints need replacing.

Labour is a big part of the bill, especially if specialist tools or skills are needed. Extra parts like bolts or gaskets can also add up. Let’s take a closer look at prices and the factors that affect them.

Cars known for ball joint wear (and cost guide)

Some cars are more prone to ball joint wear than others, and when they go, the repair bill can vary. 

Here's a quick look at models known for frequent issues and what you can expect to pay to put things right.

Ball joint replacement cost guide by car make 

Can’t see your vehicle in the table above? We’ve listed the average ball joint replacement costs per popular manufacturer below.

How location affects ball joint replacement cost

Did you know your location can also affect your ball joint replacement costs? Mechanics in London and other big cities tend to charge more than those in smaller towns. 

How long does it take to replace a ball joint? 

The time required to change a ball joint can vary depending on how much work needs to be done and the mechanic's skill. 

The average lifespan of a ball joint is between

If driven in rough conditions or poorly maintained, your car’s ball joints may wear out faster. Different vehicles have varying lifespans, so regular maintenance checks are essential to keep ball joints working well and extend their life.

How much should it cost to get a ball joint replaced?

There’s no one price for every ball joint replacement. Several key factors influence the potential cost, and these include:

If you can’t pay the cost in one go, you can consider Bumper's 

Ball joints connect the control arm or steering knuckle to the wheel hub, acting like a shoulder joint to allow smooth suspension and steering movement.

Upper ball joints help absorb turning forces and maintain alignment. Lower ball joints serve as pivot points and may carry the vehicle’s weight or simply guide movement, depending on the suspension setup.

Ball joints often cause loud clunking noises when driving over bumps or turning due to metal rubbing on metal from wear or looseness. 

But that’s not the only sign to look out for. A bad ball joint can cause several issues, including:

If you notice any of these, get your car checked promptly to avoid costly repairs. Many worn ball joints are caught during routine MOTs or service visits.

Front ball joints usually wear out first because they handle the stress of steering and manoeuvring. 

There are two main types: metal, which is more durable and expensive, and rubber, which is cheaper but wears out faster, especially under tough conditions like off-roading or rough terrain.

Driving with failing ball joints is dangerous and can cause steering issues, uneven tyre wear, and loss of control. It may also be illegal in some areas. 

If you must drive, stay within speed limits, avoid highways, and watch for pulling or vibrations. Address the problem promptly to keep yourself and others safe on the road.

What happens during a ball joint replacement? 

Most ball joint replacements follow the same process. Here are the main steps:

If replacing all four ball joints is too costly, start by fixing only the faulty ones to save money and time.

However, if all need replacement, it’s best to do it promptly to avoid further damage.

Replacing them one at a time can help spread costs, but the priority is to address the issue before more damage occurs.

Ball joint replacement can be costly, but it’s worth it.

These components are key to safe steering and handling. Replacing worn joints early helps prevent further damage and keeps your car driving smoothly, safely, and as it should.

Replacing your car’s ball joints can be a bit pricey, but it’s key for keeping you safe and steering smoothly. 

Keep an eye out for signs of wear so you can fix problems early before they turn into bigger and more expensive issues.

Need to cover a surprise ball join replacement cost?

, 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. 

How Much Does a Ball Joint Replacement Cost? (UK Guide)

¿Cuál es el precio de cambiar una rótula de suspensión?

Wegweiser und Kosten zum Austausch der Kugelgelenke

MOT and servicing – they often come up at the same time, especially when it’s time for your annual garage visit. But they’re not the same thing, and knowing the difference can save you money, time, and stress. Let’s break it all down: what an MOT involves, what a car service includes, and why both are essential for keeping your car road-ready. 

An MOT is a mandatory annual test that checks whether your car meets the minimum safety and environmental standards set by the Ministry of Transport. It’s a legal requirement for vehicles over three years old in the UK.

If your vehicle doesn’t pass its MOT test, you can’t legally drive it, and you could be fined up to £1,000 for doing so. MOTs are all about road safety and making sure your vehicle isn’t emitting more pollution than allowed by emissions standards.

Did you know? Nearly 10 million cars failed their MOTs in 2024 – 

An MOT checks for everything that affects a car’s safety, legality, and emissions, including:

A car service is a routine check-up that keeps your vehicle in good condition. Unlike an MOT, a service isn’t required by law, though skipping it can lead to bigger (more expensive) problems later on. 

There are different types of service, depending on your service schedule and mileage. Here’s a breakdown of what’s usually included:

These service items help maintain your car’s condition, boost reliability, and keep your car aligned with manufacturer standards. Skipping them can reduce your fuel efficiency and increase the chance of breakdowns.

MOT vs service: What’s the actual difference?

 from Bumper splits the cost of MOT and service work into manageable 0% interest instalments. 

 at one of our 5000+ partnered garages to keep your car in good condition without breaking the bank.

Yes, you do need to keep on top of all MOTs and servicing because: 

Even if your MOT passes, you might still need a service to stay ahead of wear and tear. And if you only service your car but skip the MOT, you risk driving a car that isn’t roadworthy.

If you’re unsure when you should book your next MOT or service, here’s a quick guide: 

If possible, book them together. Not only does this save time, but it can also get you a better deal on each.

Stay road-ready and stress-free with Bumper’s car repair finance

Need an MOT and service but dreading the bill? With Bumper, you can split the 

 into handy, interest-free payments. Whether it’s your annual service, MOT, or an unexpected repair, our 

 helps you stay in control and on the road. Join thousands of drivers and take the sting out of your car upkeep. 

An MOT test usually takes around 45–60 minutes if no repairs are needed. A car service can take 1–3 hours, depending on whether it’s an interim, full, or major service. If carried out together, allow half a day to complete both, especially if issues are found.

 for cars. A service varies depending on the type:

Booking both together often saves money compared to separate visits.

Yes. Electric cars still require an MOT after three years, just like petrol or diesel cars, to ensure safety and roadworthiness. While EVs don’t need oil changes or exhaust checks, they do need servicing for brakes, tyres, suspension, battery health, and software updates to keep them running safely and efficiently.

The difference between MOT and service

We are thrilled to announce we have achieved a 

 in the UK and Turkey. This recognition reflects our commitment to fostering a positive and supportive workplace, where employees feel valued and empowered to succeed. 

The Great Place to Work certification is a rigorous evaluation of a company's culture and employee feedback. It measures various aspects of workplace culture, including trust, credibility, respect, fairness, pride, and camaraderie. Also included in the list are top brands, Experian, Hilton, and Adobe. 

Laura Chapman, Head of People at Bumper, commented, “The Great Place to Work certification is not only a significant achievement for Bumper, but also serves as a competitive advantage in attracting top talent. In today's competitive job market, employees seek companies that share their values and prioritise their well-being. By achieving this certification, Bumper has demonstrated that they are a company that employees can trust and feel proud to be a part of."

Alastair Shephard

Content Writer