In what has often been considered a masculine industry, it’s important to remember that women have also played an important part in the automotive industry’s rich history of innovation. To celebrate International Women’s Day, we’re celebrating 5 female inspirational inventors from the last 150 years. 

Bertha Benz – pioneer and inventor of the brake lining

Early one summer morning in 1888, Bertha set off to make the 65-mile journey from Mannheim to Pforzheimin, Germany in her husband’s car. The car was the world’s first and was invented by her husband Karl Benz who was convinced it wasn’t ready for the open road, but Bertha believed otherwise and believed the world was ready for a woman to set a new course. 

Running out of petrol mid-journey, Bertha was undeterred and stopped to purchase ligroin (a petroleum-based solvent) from a pharmacy in Wiesloch which is now considered the first petrol station in history. Similarly, when the engine overheated, Bertha stopped and collected water from a ditch to cool it and when the fuel line became blocked, she cleaned it with her hat pin. 

Bertha is also the inventor of the brake lining. During the trip, the brake pads became worn, so she used her garter as a temporary measure to insulate them until she was able to reach a cobbler, who she paid to cover the brake shoes in leather. 

Margaret Wilcox - inventor of the car heater

On the 28th of November 1893, Margaret Wilcox patented her solution to the often cold, open-air driving which was enjoyed by early drivers of the motor car. The solution was the world’s first in-car heating system. 

The idea of the heater was considered luxurious, even once motorcars were developed with enclosed bodywork and glass windows, but eventually, carmakers warmed to the idea. In 1929, the Ford Model A became the first vehicle to offer in-car heating. 

As well as this being a turning point in history (because quite frankly, who wants to forgo in-car heating during winter months?) this was a turning point for Margaret herself. This was the first design that had been patented in her own name rather than her husband’s, a practice which had previously been the law in the United States.

Dorothee Pullinger – engineer and inventor of the car designed for women, built by women

Having been refused entry to the Institution of Automobile Engineers on the grounds that “the word person means a man and not a woman”, Dorothee became manager of Galloway Motors, a car factory run by a female workforce that adopted the colours of the suffragettes, by the early 1920s. 

Galloway Motors had an onsite engineering college, offering women apprenticeships over the course of 3 years, as opposed to the usual 5 years for men, with the belief women were faster learners. 

With gear levers placed inside of the car rather than outside to make them easier to reach, added storage space, a smaller steering wheel and a lower dashboard, Dorothee designed and built the Galloway – the world’s first car developed specifically for women. 

Mary Anderson – inventor of the windscreen wiper

Having full-functioning windscreen wipers is an essential part of car maintenance and safety. We all know that if you don’t have decent wipers, your car will not pass its MOT, and worse, you could be placed in a dangerous situation should your visibility be decreased. This makes Mary Anderson’s story even more poignant as a woman in automotive history. 

Mary recognised the need for a windscreen wiper for assisting with clearing ice from the windscreen, to save the driver from having to open a window and chilling the cabin in the process. 

She invented a spring-loaded arm with a rubber blade which would move back and forth across the window to clear it. The design was patented in 1903 but Mary’s invention was not used in car manufacturing straight away as a wiper was considered too distracting for drivers.

Mary did not profit from the invention, which is rather frustrating considering our reliance upon this device for all vehicles on the road. 

Helen Clifford – London's first female bus mechanic

In 1983, Helen qualified as London Transport’s first female bus mechanic after completing a course at West Ham garage at the age of 18. 

Up until this pivotal moment in history, there had only been two brief periods where women were called upon to take responsibility for a so-called man’s duty in stations, depots, garages and engineering works, namely during the first and second world wars. 

Not only was Helen a bus mechanic, but also qualified as a bus driver. This role was not opened to women until 1974. 

Celebrating Women Inventors in Automotive History

If you're considering buying a car, one of the first considerations is your budget and how you'll pay for it. Should you buy a car with cash or take out car finance? And how can you 

Today, we're looking at two main types of car finance: hire purchase and PCP. 

We'll cover the PCP finance pros and cons, benefits and drawbacks of hire purchase, and how to make the decision. 

What is PCP (Personal Contract Purchase) car finance? 

PCP finances plots the car's value into monthly payments. At the end, you can keep, trade, or return it.

The monthly payments and deposit amount don’t pay off the car, though. Instead, they cover the predicted depreciation over the contract length. 

PCP can be settled with a lump sum (balloon payment) to own the car outright. Alternatively, if you’re not interested in keeping or upgrading the vehicle, you can simply return it and walk away at the end of the term.

Typically, PCP finance lasts for three to four years. But this may vary depending on your personal contract. 

Is getting a car on finance a good idea for you? Here are some of the pros and cons of PCP finance: 

PCP finance is a good option if you want to drive a new car every few years and can afford the monthly payments and deposit. 

It's important to understand the risks and terms before signing the agreement.

Hire purchase is the most straightforward way to finance a car. 

It requires you to make an initial deposit to become the ‘registered keeper’ of the car. Once complete, you make monthly payments towards the value of the vehicle. When these are finished, the finance company gives you outright ownership of the car. 

Hire purchase contracts typically range from two to five years. Is Hire Purchase a good idea? Keep reading to find out. 

Here are some of the pros and cons of Hire Purchase finance.

A Hire Purchase can be a good option if you want to own the car outright and can afford the higher upfront costs and monthly payments.

Be aware of risks like depreciation and fully understand the terms before signing.

Key differences between PCP and hire purchase

Before you make your decision, take a look at the main differences between PCP and hire purchases. 

PCP might seem cheaper at first thanks to its lower monthly payments, but it accumulates more interest than a hire purchase. Also, you may need to make a final balloon payment or cover wear and tear fees.

Hire purchase has higher monthly payments, but you own the car at the end and don’t encounter as many extra costs.

PCP vs hire purchase – which is best for you?

PCP offers flexible end-of-contract options and lower monthly payments, making it ideal if you don't want to own the car. 

With Hire Purchase, you pay a deposit and divide the remaining cost into higher monthly payments over up to five years. While you pay less interest, you own the car outright after the final payment, which is not as large as a PCP balloon payment.

Cost differences between Hire Purchase and PCP

The best way to see the cost difference between Hire Purchase and PCP is with a hypothetical situation. For example, let’s look at a £40,000 car with a 0% interest deal (possibly with PCP but not always with Hire Purchase). 

With a £10,000 deposit, and when the contract ends, the optional GMFV (Guaranteed Minimum Future Value) payment the PCP deal includes is £10,000.

This means you’ll have to pay off £30,000 in the Hire Purchase deal but only £20,000 in the PCP deal. For PCP, this is £555.55 a month or £833.33 with Hire Purchase.

But remember, at the end of the Hire Purchase deal, you own the car — but in the PCP, you won’t unless you pay the GMFV payment.

 To leave your car finance deal early, you have to have paid over 50% of the loan agreement off (including fees and interest). 

Ending your contract early is rarely advantageous unless you desperately need to.

You can also use a personal bank loan to finance a car.

Your ability to use a personal loan for a car depends on your credit history and the vehicle's cost. Consider fees and interest, as even 0% offers have expiration dates.

Car finance has pros and cons, and it will come down to your personal situation.

Buying a car on finance – what are the basic steps?

Ready to move forward? Here are the basic steps you can take to buy a car on finance.

Buying a car on finance spreads the financial load and keeps your savings intact, but you must find the right deal for your finances. Take time to explore the PCP and Hire Purchase pros and cons before making the big decision. 

Car replacement costs can be higher than expected and poorly timed, and that’s where Bumper comes in.

Split the cost of expensive car repairs into interest-free monthly repayments and find a reliable repairer in your area. 

Car Budgeting: Is Car Finance A Good Idea?

Spark plug replacement costs in the UK can range from £50 to £300. 

These plugs help start your car by creating little sparks that ignite the fuel in the engine, making the car run. They’re a vital part of the vehicle, so don’t leave repairs up to guesswork! 

Discover everything you need to know about spark plug replacement costs, including when to change them and what it will cost to buy and have them installed.

How much does a spark plug replacement cost?

On average, a complete spark plug replacement in the UK costs between £50 and £300, depending on the type of vehicle and the number of spark plugs required. 

The cost of a spark plug replacement comes down to the type and model of your vehicle. Luxury vehicles may require more expensive parts than standard models, while certain older cars may require specialised tools or engines for repair. 

Here's an idea of average costs in the UK for spark plugs for different cars and makes.

Spark plug replacement costs by make and model

Spark plug replacement costs can vary significantly depending on your car’s make and model. 

To give you a clear idea, here’s a guide to typical prices for popular vehicles in the UK. These may differ depending on your region and your car’s condition.

Labour costs associated with replacing spark plugs can also vary depending on how long it takes a mechanic to complete the job. Some jobs might take longer due to difficult-to-reach locations in some engine compartments or tight spaces between components. 

Beyond car makes and labour costs, advancements in vehicle technology, such as direct injection systems, can make spark plugs harder to access, potentially increasing labour time and costs. 

Additionally, the choice of spark plug brand and type can influence both parts and installation expenses.

If you’re worried about the costs of an expensive spark plug change, 

 can split these costs into interest-free repayments.

Spark plugs create sparks that ignite the air-fuel mixture in your engine, producing the explosions that power your car.

It goes without saying that they’re essential for starting your vehicle and keeping it running efficiently, so it’s important to keep them in good condition.

Most cars have between four and eight spark plugs, typically one per cylinder, with the exact number depending on the vehicle’s size and engine type. 

Electric cars, however, don’t need spark plugs at all, as their motors are powered entirely by batteries.

Most modern cars need their spark plugs replaced every 20,000–40,000 miles, or roughly every three years. 

Worn plugs can hurt performance and fuel economy, so check your owner’s manual or ask a mechanic if you’re unsure when to replace them.

Over time, spark plugs wear out due to age, heat, and vibration caused by the engine's operation over a prolonged period. 

To help your spark plugs last longer, adhere to your vehicle’s recommended service schedule, use the correct type of spark plugs for your car, and avoid harsh driving habits such as frequent rapid acceleration. 

Regular engine maintenance, such as checking ignition coils and keeping the engine clean, can also prevent excessive wear.

How do you know if your spark plugs need changing?

If you notice any of the following symptoms in your car, then your spark plugs might need changing: 

A faulty spark plug may cause your engine to misfire, which produces a stuttering, popping, or knocking sound. 

If you have a bad spark plug, you might also notice rough idling or unusual engine noises, especially when starting the car or driving at low speeds.

A good rule of thumb is to get your car checked whenever it starts making unusual sounds.

When spark plugs go bad, they can cause a variety of issues with your vehicle's performance. 

If a bad spark plug is not replaced, it can lead to further engine damage, which can mean very expensive repairs, such as:

Yes! Replacing your spark plugs comes with three main benefits:

It’s a simple, low-cost service that keeps your car running smoothly and helps prevent costly repairs down the line

No, when replacing spark plugs, it’s best to change the full set at once. 

Replacing them individually or one at a time can affect your engine’s balance and performance, so it’s not worth the risk.

What happens if you don't replace spark plugs?

If you don’t replace worn spark plugs, your engine may struggle to start or misfire more often. It may also generally lose power. These misfires put extra strain on engine components, such as the pistons and valves, causing them to wear out more quickly. 

You’ll also notice reduced fuel efficiency and higher emissions as the engine works harder to compensate. Over time, ignoring old spark plugs can lead to costly and potentially serious engine damage.

Replacing your own spark plugs is generally not recommended unless you are an experienced mechanic. 

However, if you choose to do it yourself, make sure you take all necessary safety precautions and follow the steps outlined in your vehicle's manual.

It can be tempting to replace your own spark plugs to save money and for convenience, but the task requires skill and knowledge. Doing it incorrectly could cause engine damage or even result in injury.

If you’re unsure, don’t attempt the repair!

Will new spark plugs make my car run better?

New spark plugs won’t automatically make your car run better if there are other problems, but they can boost engine performance and fuel efficiency if your old ones are worn or damaged. 

Other ways to keep your car performing well include keeping your tyres properly inflated and sticking to regular oil changes. Never skip your scheduled services!

Will replacing spark plugs improve acceleration?

Yes and no. Replacing worn or damaged spark plugs can help restore engine efficiency, which may improve acceleration. 

However, new spark plugs won’t increase speed beyond your car’s capabilities. They simply ensure the engine runs smoothly and responds better when you press the accelerator.

You can technically drive with a faulty spark plug, but it’s not recommended.

A bad plug can cause misfires and reduced engine power and put extra strain on the vehicle, potentially leading to costly repairs or danger on the road if left unaddressed.

Spark plug replacement is an important part of routine car maintenance that can boost engine performance and improve fuel efficiency. It also helps to prevent costly repairs down the line.

So, although the spark plug replacement cost can sometimes be off-putting, it’s worth facing to save your wallet stress in the future!

A repair fee is the last thing you want to have to deal with, but essential parts like spark plugs are key for a safe drive.

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 Spark Plug Replacement Cost?

Wie viel kostet ein Zündkerzenwechsel?

We are pleased to announce Bumper has ranked 30

 in the Fintech category in the Financial Times' list of the fastest-growing companies in Europe, with an overall ranking of 466

The list, based on revenue growth over the past three years, up to 2021, sees Bumper as only one of 125 companies to have ranked consecutively in the last three years, further reinforcing its position as a leader in the Buy Now Pay Later space. 

Bumper’s growth has been achieved by our innovative approach to payment solutions for the automotive aftersales industry. We’re extremely proud to have secured our ranking among the fastest growing companies in Europe and believe this to be a sign of the success to come. 

Bumper Ranks in FT1000 Fastest Growing Companies For 3rd Year

Bumper se integra a la lista FT1000 de empresas europeas de más rápido crecimiento por tercer año

Shock absorbers play a crucial role in keeping your car safe and comfortable on the road, with the average replacement cost being £379. If your vehicle needs new ones, getting them replaced promptly is crucial to avoid more significant issues down the line.

In this guide, we’ll break down the shock absorber replacement cost in the UK, explain what shock absorbers do, and answer common questions so you feel confident before heading to a garage.

Continue reading to gain a clear understanding of the costs and what to expect from a shock absorber replacement.

How much does a shock absorber replacement cost?

The average cost of replacing shock absorbers in the UK is £379.

While costs generally range from £150 to £500, a full set typically averages £416 for the front pair and £321 for the rear.

The price varies greatly due to different car makes and models. If you need all four replaced, you also need to consider the labour cost from mechanics. You can use 

 services to split these costs into interest-free repayments.

A key factor that can affect the price of a shock absorber replacement is the manufacturer of your car. Here’s a quick overview of costs per common car brand.

Shock absorber replacement cost by UK region

The cost of replacing shock absorbers can vary across the UK, depending on location and garage rates. 

Here’s a breakdown of average prices in different cities. These figures include both parts and labour, and actual costs may vary depending on your vehicle and chosen garage.

In the UK, labour costs for replacing shock absorbers typically range from £60 to £120 per axle, depending on your garage and vehicle type. Naturally, straightforward jobs are quicker and cheaper.

How long does a shock absorber replacement take?

On average, garages take 1.5 to 4 hours to replace shock absorbers.

However, the time it takes for mechanics to replace shocks varies between car makes and models. Keep this average in mind when planning your repair.

Do I have to replace all four shock absorbers at once?

Typically, the front and rear shock absorbers are replaced together as this helps maintain reliable handling and a consistent response on both sides of the vehicle.

At the very least, they should be replaced in pairs, i.e the front shock absorbers and rear shocks.

Shock absorbers are an important part of your vehicle's suspension system. 

Cars have four shock absorbers — one per each wheel. They help reduce the amount of vibration and shock transmitted from the road to the car's body, improving vehicle stability, comfort, and safety.

In addition, shock absorbers help protect other suspension components from wear and tear caused by rough roads, which can help keep annual service costs down.

The life expectancy of shock absorbers is at least 4 to 5 years or 50,000 miles.

However, it depends on the road conditions. If you drive on smooth roads in generally good conditions, the lifespan of shock absorbers can extend to longer than ten years. 

On the flip side, if you’re driving on rough, uneven tracks filled with potholes, your shock absorber's lifespan will significantly reduce to a few years.

What happens during a shock absorber replacement?

During a shock absorber replacement, a mechanic removes the worn shocks and inspects the surrounding suspension components. New shock absorbers are then fitted, ensuring they are properly aligned and secure. 

The mechanic may suggest additional fixes if they notice any other problems during the repair. They will always consult you before making other changes, though.

What are the signs of worn shock absorbers?

Over time, shock absorbers can wear out and become less effective, leading to an uncomfortable ride.

Symptoms of worn shock absorbers include:

Moreover, if you notice visible damage such as oil leakage or rust on the shock absorber, it's crucial to replace it immediately to ensure your safety.

What noise does a broken shock absorber make?

Broken shock absorbers are known for making unusual noises. If one is broken, you might hear a clunking sound knocking under your car. That’s the sound of metal components hitting each other as the car bumps over an uneven surface.

Like any car part, to maintain your shock absorbers, it is essential to inspect them regularly.

Alongside checks, you should also try to drive smoothly to reduce strain. Where possible, avoid rough roads and ensure your vehicle receives an annual service to catch any issues early. 

If replacement is needed, always fit shocks in pairs to maintain your suspension's balance and safety. And don’t be scared to ask your garage or dealership for advice!

Can I drive my car with a broken shock absorber?

Driving with a broken shock absorber can be dangerous. 

It’s vital to understand that shock absorbers are an essential part of the suspension system. Their main purpose is to absorb shocks from the road while driving.

A broken shock absorber will cause discomfort while riding and lead to loss of control over the vehicle in certain situations. Therefore, driving your car with a broken shock absorber is not recommended, as it could put you and other drivers at risk.

Yes, but only with the proper knowledge and tools. Generally, if you’re unsure and asking this question, it’s best to get a professional to replace them.

Only attempt to change your shock absorbers yourself if you are competent and confident in your ability to carry out mechanical repairs on your car.

Considering the importance of shock absorbers for a car’s health, it doesn’t make sense to risk it and try a DIY job replacing shock absorbers. Instead, we recommend taking your car to your nearest mechanic to carry out the job safely.

Yes. Replacing your shock absorbers is always recommended, but especially if your car struggles on bumps, corners feel unstable, or you often drive on rough roads. Doing so improves ride quality and keeps steering safe and responsive.

What else could be causing problems if your shock absorber isn’t broken?

If your vehicle is handling poorly or the ride feels off, but your shock absorbers are fine, other components could be the cause. 

Thankfully, replacing a car’s shock absorbers is simpler than it might seem. 

To get the most value, try to replace all of them together or at least one pair at a time. Comparing quotes from a few garages can help you get a clear idea of the shock absorber replacement cost and find the best price.

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. 

Shock Absorber Replacement Cost Guide

Alles, was Sie über den Austausch von Stoßdämpfern wissen müssen

The team at Stratstone JLR Nottingham have combined exceptional customer service and flexible payment options to be crowned Dealership of the Month for January 2023. 

This award is a fantastic achievement for the team at Stratstone JLR Nottingham and is a testament to their hard work and dedication. The team have consistently gone above and beyond to deliver an outstanding level of customer service, which has resulted in them achieving great customer feedback. 

The award was presented by Bumper’s Chris Booth, who said: "I am delighted to present Stratstone JLR Nottingham with this award in recognition of their exceptional performance in January. The team at Stratstone have consistently delivered strong results and they are a great example of the efficiency and profitability allowing customers to split their bill into monthly payments can bring”. 

Celebrating Success: Stratstone JLR Nottingham Wins Dealership of the Month Award 

Modern cars are smart systems packed with tech to monitor and manage their performance.

An OBD port is a tool that lets you plug into your car's brain 

) and download data or view it live—a handy tool for mechanics and drivers to keep things running smoothly. 

The OBD port is a universal plug for all cars, but the software isn't always as standardised.

Today, we're discussing everything you need to know about these ports, including what they're used for and how you can test them.

An OBD (On-Board Diagnostics) port is a universal plug mechanics can use to run tests and diagnostics on your car’s computer. It’s simply the spot where they connect their equipment.

This is done to know the status of the car’s sub-systems, and it can even help you detect faults or maintenance problems before they arise. 

Will an OBD scanner tell me what’s wrong with my car?

Yes, an OBD scanner will tell you what’s wrong with your car. But it’s not always that simple.

OBD readings provide fault codes showing failed tests, but they don’t pinpoint exact issues or repairs.

Mechanics or savvy drivers interpret these codes to diagnose problems. If unsure, consult a professional mechanic.

An OBD port is used for plenty of reasons. Like most connections between computers, data can be transferred in both directions in an OBD port. This allows more than just the reading of stored error codes.

Here are three main ways an OBD port is used: 

Modern cars track data like engine temperature, RPM, and throttle position. With the right tools, mechanics and owners can access this info. 

Even a basic OBD reader shows details like coolant temperature, helping diagnose issues—such as ruling out a faulty throttle sensor.

When a fault develops, the ECU can detect the abnormality via the sensors above. In most cases, something like a misfire caused by faulty 

When a problem occurs, even intermittently, the ECU stores the details in its memory. Mechanics can access this as a code to help diagnose the issue.

Because the ECU defines the car and engine so much, many parameters can be modified to suit the driver or upgrade the vehicle.

With the relevant software, changes can be made, such as increasing the engine’s performance - also known as a remap - and tweaking the way the lights operate to be more convenient.

Alastair Shephard

Content Writer