 May 2023 will go down as a day in history. The average person in the UK will surely see very few coronations of a monarch in their lifetime and millions will be glued to the TV screens to witness all the pomp and ceremony, the regalia and the festivities.

It got us thinking here at Bumper, what car will the King be transported in during the coronation?

Ok, it’s not a car, but the main vehicle to be used during the coronation will be this six-horse-drawn carriage responsible for transporting their Royal Highnesses King Charles III and Queen Camilla from Buckingham Palace to Westminster Abbey.

Originally named the State Coach Britannia, the carriage was built in Australia by coachbuilder W. J. Frecklington, to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II’s 80

 birthday but the completion of the coach was delayed by nearly 8 years and instead, eventually became a commemoration for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. It was used for the first time at the State Opening of Parliament on 4

The coach is made from timber segments from various historic landmarks, cathedrals and castles including Kensington Palace, Holyrood Palace, Windsor Castle, Westminster Cathedral, The Tower of London and Winchester Cathedral to name but a few. It also includes material from various royal yachts, a donation from the Stone of Scone and part of the musket ball from the Battle of Waterloo! This eclectic mix of different elements of the coach surely encapsulates the broad history and heritage of the United Kingdom in such a magnificent way. 

To finish, the crown atop of the roof is carved from timber from Lord Nelson’s flagship, the door handles are individually decorated with 24 diamonds and 130 sapphires and the lamps are handmade by Edinburgh Crystal. 

The coach weighs 2.75 tons and is 18 ft long (5.5 m) and 11 ft high (3.4 m), has electric windows, heating air conditioning and hydraulic stabilisers and will be driven with 3 pairs of Windsor Grey horses. 

Perhaps without the need for an engine, tyres, 

 or exhaust, at least this carriage is unlikely to break down during the coronation! 

A Sneak Peek at the Coronation Coach

We’re sure there will be many classic cars at the fast-approaching coronation of King Charles III. After all, it’s a time-honoured and historic ceremony that will surely be celebrated in style.

But what will those cars be fuelled by? Most would guess petrol or diesel but that might not necessarily be the case. Not if the King’s classic blue 1970 Aston Martin is involved.

That’s because this vehicle really does run on cheese and wine. Not the type you’re likely to see on any dining table, however. This is bioethanol, made using surplus wine mixed with whey.

The motor was gifted to him by the late Queen Elizabeth II for his 21st birthday in 1969. In 2008, he decided he didn’t like how much fuel the vehicle used so asked an organic farmer to conceive a plan to make the car more eco-friendly.

Engineers at Aston Martin asked the then Prince not to make the change saying it will ruin the vehicle but being a big advocate for the environment he asked them to do it anyway. The car now drives better than ever, allegedly.

Using the vehicle for many royal engagements, the blue Aston Martin is reportedly more powerful than ever and as the King says himself “It smells delicious as you’re driving along.” 

Does King Charles III's Car Really Run on Cheese and Wine?

For most of us the biggest alterations we make to our cars are popping on a set of winter tyres for the colder weather. Whilst it’s not clear if the King takes his car to the local garage for the same reason, there are some more maverick modifications he’s made to his motors.

 birthday, this Seychelles blue Aston Martin has had some eco-friendly modifications made to it. Back in 2008, the environment-conscious then-Prince didn’t like how much fuel the vehicle guzzled so had it converted to run on cheese and wine. 

Well, not exactly cheese and wine. Bioethanol is made from surplus wine and whey, a cheese by-product; which the King says, “smells delicious when you’re driving along.” 

Whilst the King made a very serious eco-friendly decision with this Aston Martin, he can never let us forget his sense of humour. That’s why he’s placed a fake ejector seat button on the dashboard to make his passengers feel a little nervous. 

Another gift, this time from the Emir of Bahrain, the Aston Martin V8 Vantage Volante was modified to make the vehicle appear much sleeker. After complaining the car looked too “beefy” he had Aston Martin remove the boot spoiler and side skirts. Features that marked this car out as a Vantage. 

and changed the colour to “balmoral green”. We think maybe the Emir should try a voucher next time! 

The King’s preferred transport in the mid-90s was a green Aston Martin Virage Volante. Upgrades the king made to this vehicle included changing the engine from 5.2 to 6.3 litres (allowing it to reach speeds of up to 175mph), an added police radio and a second rear-view mirror so his protection officer could keep an eye on any tailing vehicles. 

But perhaps the most eccentric change was a fitted leather jar, custom-made to store sugar cubes for his ponies.

The Odd Quirks of King Charles III's Automobiles

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

In the UK, the average price to recharge your car's air conditioning is around £70. 

Air conditioning is essential for drivers, especially during the summer. It keeps you cool and improves the air quality inside your car. 

However, like any vehicle part, it requires maintenance and occasionally a recharge. This post covers air conditioning recharge costs in the UK, care tips, and the benefits of a recharge.

The average UK aircon regas costs £60-£80 but varies by car type, aircon age, and any leaks or repairs needed. 

Regular servicing and prompt repairs help keep costs down, and you can use 

to take the strain off your bank balance. 

Aircon repair cost breakdown by refrigerant type

The refrigerant is the chemical that cools the air in your car’s air conditioning system. 

Different refrigerants have varying environmental impacts, availability, and handling requirements, which affect the cost of recharging your air conditioner.

Newer refrigerants, such as R1234yf, are more eco-friendly but typically cost more than the older R134a. Here’s a quick look at the costs:

Average air-con recharge costs by car make

Your car’s make can influence the average cost of an air-con regas. Below are estimated prices for popular car brands. 

Keep in mind these are averages and actual costs may vary.

Air-con recharge prices can also vary depending on where you live. Cities often have higher costs compared to smaller towns due to differences in living expenses and garage rates.

The prices below are estimates and may vary depending on the garage and specific vehicle requirements.

How long does it take to do an air-con regas?

An air conditioning recharge usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. Time may vary depending on your car, the age of the unit, and if any leaks or repairs are needed before recharging.

How do you know if your car air-con needs regassing?

There are a few signs to watch out for if you think your air-con unit might need recharging.

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms then it might be time to take your car to a garage.

How often should you get your air conditioning recharged?

recharge your air conditioning every 2-3 years.

 If you spot any warning signs, have a professional check it promptly to avoid bigger issues.

Is an air-con regas the same as recharging? 

Yes, an air-con regas and an air-con recharge mean the same thing. Both terms refer to refilling your car’s air conditioning system with refrigerant to keep it working properly.

Yes, it is worth it. Recharging your car’s air conditioning improves air quality, boosts fuel efficiency, and makes driving more comfortable. It also helps your engine last longer by reducing the effort needed to keep your car cool.

To help your air conditioning unit last as long as possible, proper care is essential. There are three main ways to maintain it:

While you can recharge your air conditioning unit at home, it’s not recommended unless you have plenty of car experience. 

Refrigerant gases can be hazardous and may damage your engine if handled incorrectly. It’s safest to leave aircon recharges to the professionals.

In short, regular care and occasional recharges keep your car’s aircon working well, so you stay cool and comfortable all summer long. You’ll thank yourself if a heatwave hits!

Need to repair your aircon? Facing a last-minute car repair?

 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 It Cost To Recharge Your Car’s Air Conditioning?

¿Cuánto cuesta recargar el aire acondicionado?

Wie viel kostet das Befüllen einer Klimaanlage?

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 

How often do you consider your car's steering system? Most drivers take it for granted until it fails. 

Don't worry if you're experiencing this issue right now. We're here to help with steering rack replacement costs.

We'll also cover other factors influencing the price, such as labour costs and parts availability. By understanding more about what goes into replacing a steering rack, you can help extend your car's lifespan and avoid more expensive repairs. Keep reading to find out more.

How much is a steering rack replacement cost in the UK?

The average steering rack replacement cost in the UK is

The cost of replacing a steering rack varies by vehicle make and model, as well as labour hours. We’ll break these down in this article.

You should also compare prices from multiple mechanics to find the best rate. If you're experienced, consider doing some of the work yourself to save on labour costs. But don’t attempt this if you’re a newbie!

Split the cost into monthly payments at thousands of reliable repairers with Bumper 

Steering rack replacement cost by car make

We've rounded up the average costs for replacing the steering rack depending on your car make. Use these as a rough estimate for your costs.

A steering rack is crucial for translating the driver's steering wheel input into action, controlling the car's direction and speed. 

It consists of a pinion gear connected to the steering wheel and a tie rod assembly linking to both front wheels, with bearings, seals, and bushings ensuring its performance.

A steering rack converts the steering wheel's rotation into lateral motion, moving the wheels left or right to steer the vehicle. The pinion gear attached to the steering wheel engages with a rack bar and this moves as you turn. 

Proper alignment of tie rods and ball joints is crucial, as they transfer this motion to the wheels. Some cars also have power-assisted systems that make steering easier using hydraulic or electric assistance.

What is the average life of a steering rack?

typical lifespan of a steering rack is around 80,000 miles. 

However, this can vary depending on a few factors such as the type of vehicle and how it is driven.

Factors that can affect the steering rack

Several factors can affect the lifespan of a steering rack. Here are the main ones:

How to extend the life of your steering rack

There are some ways to extend the life of your steering rack and to help you avoid costly repairs.

 and keep up with any necessary replacements when recommended by your mechanic. 

You should also be sure to drive sensibly and avoid using too much force when turning corners or going over bumps to reduce wear and tear on the system.

If you notice any bad steering rack symptoms, you should investigate them immediately.

Knowing the bad steering rack symptoms can help you prevent damage and make your car safer. The most common symptoms of a failing or worn-out steering rack are:

These can all impact your car's performance, making it harder to control the vehicle and causing vibrations that reduce your handling abilities.

Additionally, if left unchecked for too long, these issues can lead to further damage, such as seized-up components or even complete failure of your steering system.

It's vital to address any signs that indicate your steering rack may need replacing before serious damage occurs.

No. You shouldn’t drive with a faulty steering rack in the UK. 

The risks associated with this can be severe and can include loss of control of your vehicle due to lack of responsiveness from the steering wheel, or even sudden failure at speed which could result in a serious accident.

Furthermore, if the police catch you driving an unsafe car on public roads, you may face charges — this will up your cost to replace the steering rack for sure!

Worried about expensive car repair costs?

to help you split the cost of car repairs with interest-free monthly instalments, find a trusted partner here.

Replacing a steering rack yourself can save money on labour and provide valuable hands-on experience. 

It can also boost your confidence for future car projects. However, you should have experience with car mechanics before giving this a go.

1. Gather the necessary parts and tools, including the new steering rack, mounting hardware, lubricants, wrenches, and sockets.

2. Jack up your car to safely access the underside and manoeuvre around components.

3. Disconnect electrical connectors and remove the old steering rack by freeing it from mounting bolts and fluid lines.

4. Prepare the new steering rack according to instructions, apply lubricants, and install it using the same steps in reverse.

5. Secure all connections according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Steering rack replacement and installation typically takes 

The exact time depends on your vehicle model, the garage’s experience, and whether your parts are easy to find. It can also depend on how much of the car needs to be dismantled for the repair.

Yes, although repairing or replacing a steering rack can be quite expensive. For some cars, a repair can cost hundreds of pounds. 

However, if the problem is left unchecked for too long, it could lead to further damage that would require more extensive repairs and potentially higher costs than fixing the steering rack itself.

Final words on steering rack replacements

A steering column repair is never fun, but if you notice your system failing, you should contact an expert immediately for some professional advice.

Hopefully, we’ve answered your steering rack replacement cost questions and given you some extra insight to the procedure. 

Alastair Shephard

Content Writer