Buying a used car can get you considerably more for your money compared to buying new, but there are some extra considerations when buying used, such as where to buy 

. You have private sellers, main dealers, car supermarkets and more.

So which one is best? In this article, we’ll break each option down and give some vital tips and information about the process.

Despite their primary function being to sell new cars, manufacturer dealers do sell second-hand cars. They usually come at a premium over any other location, as they often offer “approved used” vehicles.

These are cars that have been inspected and approved by the dealership's mechanics to be in good condition and working order. They are often cars that were originally sold by the dealer new, or have been serviced there, but not always. 

Cons of buying a used car from a main dealer:

Benefits of buying approved used from a main dealer:

Car supermarkets have been around since the late 1990s, In essence, they cram 100s of cars into a large site, and tend to sell them at a slightly lower rate than main or specialist dealers.

Typically, these kinds of businesses target the mid-range market; cars that are 2-8 years old, appealing to someone who just needs a fairly modern runabout. 

Benefits of buying from a car supermarket:

Disadvantages of buying from a car supermarket

Whereas car supermarkets sell anything and everything, specialist dealers, often attached to specialist independent repair shops, will only sell one type or brand of car. That could be that they specialise in Volvos or luxury cars, for example. 

Advantages of buying from a specialist dealer

Limitations of buying from a specialist dealer

Buying privately can yield big rewards, but of course comes with significant risk depending on the car. The biggest factor to consider is the complete lack of protection should the car be faulty. There are some caveats, such as if you believe the seller hid a problem or intentionally deceived the buyer, but even then, it can be hard to get any money back. 

On the flip side, private sales can be anything from 10-25% less than those through a dealership of some kind, so it can be worthwhile in the right circumstances.

Benefits of buying a car from a private seller

 has been writing about cars for over seven years and writing for Bumper for over two, blending his passion for automobiles with a talent for storytelling.

Joseph has written about engineering and cars for Autozilla, Komaspec, and several engineering manufacturers. When he's not writing or tinkering with one of his cars, Joseph dreams of owning an Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale.

Best Way to Buy a Used Car

It's easy to forget car maintenance, especially regarding oil changes. We jump in and drive every day, expecting everything to run well. But you need to keep on top of maintenance for a healthy car. 

Today, we're explaining what happens if you don't change your oil and how long you can go without an oil change. Let's get into it! 

What happens if you don’t change your oil? 

Not changing your engine oil can lead to issues like

 increased wear, worse MPG, overheating, higher emissions, clogged systems, a voided warranty, decreased resale value, and potential engine failures.

There’s nothing positive to be gained from putting your oil change off. 

what happens when you don't change your oil?

Here are the eight problems you’ll encounter if you don’t change your oil frequently. 

Oil lubricates and cools engine parts. While race cars have dedicated oil coolers, many regular cars also reduce oil temperature. Exceeding oil change intervals reduces oil-based cooling and increases friction heat.

Both symptoms harm the engine, as more heat leads to less efficiency, more wear, and a higher risk of permanent damage.

 due to higher heat, reduced compression, and poor cooling, leading to higher fuel costs over time—likely more than the cost of the oil change itself.

Decreased fuel efficiency often leads to higher harmful emissions, primarily from burning oil due to engine wear. More wear on cylinder walls means more oil burns off as pollutants. 

4. Systems will clog with dirt and debris 

Complex mechanisms like variable valve timing, turbochargers, and engine breathers depend on good oil flow. 

 use oil pressure for precision, and any drop in oil quality or viscosity can disrupt their function. This can lead to potential clogging and costly repairs.

5. Turbos can fail and destroy your engine 

Turbochargers, common in modern cars, use exhaust waste energy to boost power and efficiency. Turbos are responsible for the modern spate of small, high MPG-achieving engines such as those found in Ford, 

They spin over 10,000 RPM and require a steady oil supply; interruptions can cause overheating and failure. If a turbo fails, debris can enter the engine, leading to severe damage.

If you've waited long between oil changes, you likely noticed improved performance afterwards. Fresh oil helps your engine's parts move smoothly and use less power.

A new car’s warranty can last up to a decade if you follow the maintenance schedule. Skipping oil changes may void the warranty, potentially leading to costly repairs later.

While resale value might not be a priority when buying a car, regular oil changes will boost it when you sell or trade-in. A well-maintained engine performs better during inspections and test drives, and detailed records can enhance your sale price.

How long can you go without an oil change?

Experts suggest you should change your car’s oil every 3,000 miles.

But this doesn’t apply to all modern cars. Instead, you should check your owner’s manual. This will give you specific information, and you won’t have to rely on vague estimates. 

Oil change intervals were once based solely on mileage. Today, consider three factors: 

Different vehicles and driving conditions require varying oil change frequencies, with older cars needing more frequent changes compared to newer ones.

Is it okay to go a year without an oil change? 

No, you should change your oil every 3,000 to 6,000 miles. 

Skipping oil changes for over a year can lead to serious engine damage. While it might be a hassle, regular oil changes are crucial for your car’s longevity and performance, and neglecting them could cost more in the long run.

What are the benefits of changing your oil on schedule? 

Fresh oil keeps your engine healthy by preventing failure, reducing wear, boosting resale value, and improving maintenance. Here are some extra benefits:

Does missing oil changes cause engine wear?

Yes, oil reduces wear by minimising friction between engine parts. However, it breaks down over time and loses its lubricating effectiveness, leading to increased engine wear.

Oil changes are simple and require basic tools, but they need to be done safely, often involving jacking up the car. If you prefer not to do it yourself, most garages offer oil changes as a basic service.

, usually including an oil filter change.

Check the oil grade and quality used, especially if not going to a primary dealer. We have a handy guide on oil grades 

Split the cost of repairs into interest-free monthly repayments and choose from thousands of service partners nationwide.

 or quality, or perform oil changes. It’s wise to book a service with your MOT. An annual MOT, required for cars over three years old, covers safety systems like brakes, suspension, and tyres.

 for more on precisely what an MOT covers. 

Signs you need an oil change include increased fuel consumption, reduced performance, and smoky exhaust fumes.

Additional signs you need an oil change include: 

Unlike suspension issues or exhaust problems, oil change neglect isn't immediately noticeable.

By the time symptoms appear, your engine may already be seriously damaged, so stick to service intervals.

How many miles can you go over an oil change sticker?

You might find a sticker in your engine bay indicating the last oil change mileage. It’s 

 and consider changing the oil earlier. However, stickers can be inaccurate, so using your car’s service book is recommended for precise records and resale value.

What happens if you don't change your oil for 10,000 miles? 

 manufacturers recommend oil changes every 12-15,000 miles, 

Like the previous point, you should always check your owner's manual and service records for confirmation.

Final thoughts on what happens if you don’t change your oil 

Regular oil changes are essential for maintaining your car’s health and preventing costly problems. Keeping up with them ensures safer driving and saves you money in the long run. Don’t delay—stay on top of your oil changes!

Need an expert opinion? Book your vehicle with a reliable repairer and split the cost into interest-free monthly payments with Bumper. 

has been writing about cars for over seven years and writing for Bumper for over two, blending his passion for automobiles with a talent for storytelling.

Joseph has written about engineering and cars for Autozilla, Komaspec, and several engineering manufacturers. When he's not writing or tinkering with one of his five cars, Joseph dreams of owning an Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale.

What Happens If You Don’t Change Your Oil?

¿Qué pasa si no cambias el aceite?

Was passiert, wenn Sie keinen Ölwechsel durchführen? 

A regular car service is a mechanical check-up carried out at set intervals, usually at least once a year or after the car has racked up enough miles on the clock. The manufacturer specifies the timescale and provides a standard list of services for mechanics to follow. 

If the car is still under warranty, then the interval and services will be mandatory. If it's out of warranty, then there’s more flexibility in the timing and services performed — though for the sake of your car you should keep as close to the recommended schedule as you can. 

A scheduled service will replace old fluids and ageing parts and include visual inspections to make sure key components are working as they should. 

There are three different types of scheduled car service: interim, full and major. While different service centres might brand their service packages differently for marketing purposes, there will always be three levels and a tiered pricing structure to choose from. 

Each service level builds on the previous one and then adds extras that the car needs at different stages of its life on the road. The type of service you need depends on how much time has passed or how much driving you’ve done since the last scheduled service. 

An interim car service is the basic service bundle designed for high-mileage car owners who drive 20,000 miles or more annually. In their case, a single annual service may not be enough. 

An interim car service will normally wrap in an oil and oil filter change, plus a visual inspection of the car's essential exterior components, such as the tyres, lights, and windscreen wipers. 

Also included in an interim service bundle will be a topping-up of the engine, brake, and other key fluids; an inspection for any fluid leaks, and lubrication of all moving parts. 

A full service, sometimes called an intermediate service, is often scheduled for every 12 months or whenever 12,000 miles is chalked-up on the odometer. It's designed for drivers with lower annual mileages and only needs one service a year. 

It comes with a wider range of replacement parts and visual checks, adding on to those conducted in the last interim service. These can include: 

The third and final service level is the ‘major’. It's typically recommended every 24,000 miles or 24 months. If your last annual service was a full service, a major service will be next on the manufacturer’s recommended schedule. 

It's the most comprehensive bundle of the three and takes everything from an interim and full service then adds on replacing parts and fluids that wear out every couple of years. These include brake fluid and cabin filter. 

Brake fluid can become contaminated over time and affect how well the brakes work. That’s obviously a serious concern when you’re on the road motoring at speed. The cabin filter can also be clogged up with dust and debris over time, affecting the cabin's air quality. 

Are car service intervals really necessary? 

A scheduled car service isn’t a legal requirement like an MOT. However, your new car warranty might compel you to stick to a standard servicing schedule. Even if you’re out of warranty, regular servicing is the best way to keep your car in the best possible condition. 

Although service intervals can be pricey, there are a number of benefits that make it worth doing: 

Working out which type of car service you need for your car depends on your current mileage, how old your car is, the last scheduled service you had done, and the make and model of the vehicle. 

Keeping track of your car service schedule can be tricky so it's usually a good idea to book service visits around your annual MOT. Though the servicing itself is legally required, it's good for your car and your pocketbook. Scheduling both at the same time means one less visit to the garage, and many garages offer discounted packages for doing them both together. 

Since most drivers can’t easily do oil changes, replace oil filters, or check spark plugs at home, regular 

 are normally the best way to keep your car running smoothly. 

A trained mechanic will lookout for any issues with your brakes and top up or change vital fluids like coolant, engine oil, and brake fluid. 

Failing to keep to the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule can affect your car warranty and the vehicle’s resale value. 

If you do find yourself facing a large repair bill for something unexpected, 

 can help ease the pain. You might also consider a ‘buy now, pay later service like ours. It lets you get the repairs you need quickly while deferring payments in easy interest-free instalments. 

The Different Levels of Car Service Explained 

Verschiedene Arten von Kfz-Services im Überblick

Cars, like any machine, don't last forever. They consist of complex systems with numerous moving parts that endure daily stress, temperature extremes, and friction. 

Over time, components wear out, fluids need replenishing, and electrical parts may fail. As a result, certain car problems frequently occur, leading mechanics to perform the same repairs repeatedly.

In this blog, we'll cover the most common car repairs. The good news? Many can be avoided or delayed with proper 

Here are the nine most common car repairs:

Spark plugs are small but essential, igniting the fuel to start your engine. 

Though inexpensive and replaceable at home, proper installation is crucial. Delayed or incorrect replacement can cause serious engine and transmission damage. 

Whether you DIY or visit a service centre, ensure this common car repair is done correctly.

 comes on, a loose fuel cap is often to blame. 

Ignoring it can reduce gas mileage, as excess air in the tank causes fuel to burn faster, leading to more frequent fill-ups and higher long-term costs.

Oxygen sensors measure exhaust oxygen levels to optimise engine performance and emissions by regulating the air-fuel ratio.

So long as the ratio of air and petrol in the chambers remains optimal, your engine will run just as it should. Replace these as and when required!

4. Ensuring brakes and pads are replaced on time 

Everyone knows brakes are important. More than a quarter of all car accidents happen because a vehicle didn't — or couldn't — stop in time to avoid a collision. 

, which wear down naturally with everyday use. 

On their own and when done on schedule, the cost of replacement isn’t pricey. Regular brake maintenance can also cover brake discs, drums, lines, and rotors.

If you're worried about car repairs, then Bumper could help by splitting the cost into interest-free monthly instalments at no cost to you.

 in your car every 3,000 miles or so to keep your engine running smoothly and efficiently.

Oil collects debris over time, reducing its lubricating ability. Fortunately, oil changes are easy to learn through online or DIY courses.

Keeping accurate records of oil changes can boost your car's resale or trade-in value. Some mechanics will even put a sticker on your windscreen reminding you when the 

Without well-inflated tyres and treads appropriate for the weather, you can sacrifice control, speed, and fuel efficiency.

It's vital to get your tires patched quickly anytime you run over a sharp object like a chunk of broken glass, anytime you notice a leak, or if the tires have simply become too worn. 

Mechanics are also trained to spot tire issues, even during unrelated repairs.

The ignition system on a car includes the starter, battery, and the ignition key or button assembly on the dashboard. 

If any of those pieces aren't working, the engine won't turn over — or you might end up with an engine failure in mid-journey. This is one of the most common repairs on cars, and one to watch out for!

In addition to the ignition and starter, key electrical components like fuses and light bulbs that need regular replacement are also connected to your battery. 

These types of repairs can easily be done at home, and the components are easy to find at shops like Halfords, which stock automotive goods.

Just do a bit of homework and be sure you have the correct specifications in fuses or bulbs.

Car alarms installed after the car leaves the dealer’s forecourt often cause problems. 

Alarm systems need to draw power from the car’s battery and electrical system in order to operate. As an add-on the alarm can cause other systems to receive less power than they need and fail. They can also kill the battery if installed incorrectly. 

Ensure the alarm matches your car's electrical specs, or you may face costly removal.

The alternator charges your battery and powers the electrical system. It’s a critical component of any car and responsible for safe driving. 

Signs of failure include dim headlights, a dead battery, or a dashboard warning light. If you notice any of these, have your alternator checked and replaced if needed.

An overheating engine can be caused by a wide range of issues, from a malfunctioning radiator to a cooling system leak.

If you realise your engine is overheating you must pull over and turn your car off. Allow the car to cool down and then open the bonnet and check the coolant level. If low, top up the coolant. If the overheating problem continues, you must visit a mechanic.

If you do find yourself facing a large repair bill for something unexpected, a 

You might also consider a ‘buy now, pay later’ service like Bumper, which lets you get the repairs you need quickly while deferring payments in easy interest-free instalments. 

By staying informed about common car repairs, you can make smarter decisions that save you time, money, and stress. Regular maintenance and attention to early warning signs help you prevent minor issues from becoming major problems — which is 

Embracing these tips and working with a trusted mechanic when needed will not only extend the life of your car but also ensure a safer, smoother, and more enjoyable driving experience. 

Bookmark this page so you don’t forget these most common auto repairs!

11 Common Car Repairs Drivers Need To Know

Was sind die häufigsten Autoreparaturen?

How much should you expect to spend every year on keeping your car in smooth running order? A 2020 study by Kwik Fit found that the average UK driver spends around £1,300 every year on 

 That includes petrol, trips to the car wash, but crucially — repairs and breakdown recovery.

Ranked by cost, you won't be surprised that petrol is the biggest line item in the budget. But maintenance and repairs come in a close second.

Those figures don’t tell the whole story. Unexpected repairs and breakdowns 

. Numbers from WarrantyWise suggest the average bill for an unexpected repair is north of £600, and the more expensive the car brand, the higher the cost. 

shock car repair bill, it's worth looking at what you can do to keep your car in top condition and avoid unpleasant surprises (and you could even consider applying for 

Close to 10 per cent of drivers try and save on car maintenance by putting off 

 or delaying routine servicing. Experts agree that waiting until repairs are absolutely necessary is a ‘false economy’ that often costs drivers more in the long run. 

To avoid unexpected repairs and breakdowns, the best way to ensure your car is operating efficiently is to regularly maintain it. If you don’t, you run the risk of 

 if problems go undetected and lead to major repairs. 

But there are effective ways to keep visits to the mechanics to a minimum. Here are five proper ways to trim the cost of auto maintenance and repairs. 

Getting more life out of your car’s moving parts is often as simple as taking it easy behind the wheel. 

and tyres will all last you longer if learn to relax a bit and be sensible when you’re on the move. 

Follow these simple techniques and your car will repay you with fewer trips to the mechanic: 

Pay attention to what’s happening further up the road and brake gradually as the situation demands. Gradual versus ‘sudden’ braking will keep your discs and brake pads from wearing out before their normal lifespan expires. If you hammer the brakes on a regular basis it creates more friction and brakes down their component materials faster. 

Don’t keep your foot pressed down on the clutch pedal after you switch gears. Doing that means the clutch isn’t fully re-engaged, which could cause the plates to slip on the gearbox shaft. Over time that will cause significant and expensive damage to your transmission. 

Steer clear of speed bumps and potholes: 

Your vehicles undercarriage, exhaust, and tyres can all be damaged by flying over potholes and speed bumps. The end result can be a painfully expensive repair bill — all of which could be avoided by taking it slow over speed bumps avoiding potholes entirely 

2. Don’t put off scheduled service visits 

At risk of repeating ourselves, most car makers suggest that you bring your car in for a full end-to-end service every 12 months or every 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. 

While the fear of an unexpected repair bill can make people fearful about taking their car in for a checkup, in the end it can lead to a bigger repair bill when you’re hit with a failed MOT inspection down the road. In fact, the Royal Automobile Club found that close to 60 per cent of drivers who hadn't been in for regular service paid between £500 and £1,000 in order to pass the MOT. 

Keeping your car and undercarriage free from dirt and dust can help keep grit out of moving parts and stop slow-but-steady damage to the vehicle's exterior. Kwik Fit’s study of repair costs also found that UK drivers spend an average of £60 every year taking their car in to the car wash. While that might not seem like a lot of money, over the course of a car’s normal lifespan (circa eight years) you could cut close to £800 from your maintenance costs by cleaning the car at home. 

Electric vehicles are increasing in popularity and repair costs are part of the attraction. Along with being more sustainable, e-cars are rightly hailed for being cheaper to maintain. Their motors contain fewer moving parts. And perhaps most importantly, charging an electric vehicle is significantly cheaper than filling a tank with diesel or petrol. 

The latest industry research shows that electric cars are about 25 per cent 

with a traditional petrol-fired internal combustion engine. On average, that equates to savings of about £300 annually. 

If you’re willing to sit through a few YouTube videos and learn how to handle basic car maintenance, you can save a lot of money every year by avoiding leaving your car in a service bay for a mechanic to do the work instead. 

When you take your car in to a garage, you’re paying for both parts and labour. In many cases, a bit of shopping around will locate the same parts for less than what the mechanic is going to charge you for them. Learning how to do things like change spark plugs and do oil changes can save you hundreds of pounds every year. 

How high are auto maintenance and repair costs in the UK? 

Unfortunately, we don’t get to choose when our car is going to break, and in many cases, it seems to happen at the worst time. 

With daily life becoming more and more expensive, large unforeseen bills can have a major impact on our finances. But that’s where car repair loans come in. 

Loans for car repairs can take the pressure off an expensive bill and help you manage your finances without stress. Keep reading to learn more about auto repair loans, how they work, and what you need to know before signing up for one. 

A car repair loan is a specific form of lending that helps pay for car maintenance or repair bills. These loans split the costs into multiple payments over a series of months, allowing you to minimise the impacts of a big surprise cost. 

Usually, the amount is paid directly to the garage doing the work, and the car owner repays the loan company in monthly payments until it is complete. 

Banks and credit unions typically charge interest on money lent, but car repair loan companies like 

Bumper makes money by charging the garage a small service charge instead. But don’t worry. This cost will never be passed on to you through inflated rates. We’re here to make the experience easier, not more stressful.

What fees are there for securing a car repair loan?

As the borrower, none! There shouldn’t be any fees to the customer to secure a car repair loan. 

, we charge the garage a small service charge, and that’s it. Assuming you make all the 

 as agreed prior to arranging credit, there are no fees to be paid with our car repair finance. 

, it couldn't be easier. Our website will guide you through the steps one by one. To get started, visit our 

The process for car repair finance is simple: 

What information do I need to apply for a car repair loan?

If you need a loan to get your car fixed, you’ll need a few personal details. 

, you will be asked to provide information about your car and location. From there, we’ll present a suitable selection of local garages. 

We also do a ‘soft credit check’ in order to guarantee eligibility for a car repair loan, and this will require information such as your full name, address, date of birth, and any current credit lines you have. 

Do I have to provide security for a car repair loan? 

No, unlike many bank loans, you don’t need to provide collateral for a car repair loan. 

This means you don’t need to own your own home or car outright to get approved for a car repair loan, making the process much easier. 

An option lots of people use for large purchases is a credit card. This allows you to cover the cost of large bills without needing to pay upfront, but they do have their downsides.

credit card companies offer zero interest rates

 on a fixed term, say 18 months, these are usually offers rather than permanent schemes, meaning it's very important to check and double-check what interest you'll have to pay. 

After the first month, many credit card lenders charge in the region of 20% APR, with this compounding if payments are missed. If your credit score isn't perfect, this rate can skyrocket to 40 or 60%. 

 allows guaranteed 0%-interest repayments over a timescale that is established before the money is lent, meaning you won't get any surprises when your statement arrives next month. 

 service is the speed of approval. In many cases, car repair loans can be taken out in as little as one day, enabling your garage of choice to get to work straight away. 

If you have a poor credit score or need a large bill covering, it may take an extra day or two. This is likely to be faster still than taking out a new credit card or applying for a bank loan. 

As well as Bumper or using a credit card, there are a few other ways to spread the cost of car repairs, each with its own downsides and benefits. 

Paypal has offered a buy now pay later option for a while, for some customers can give 4 months zero interest loans. 

Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

Best Way to Buy a Used Car

What Happens If You Don’t Change Your Oil?

The Different Levels of Car Service Explained

11 Common Car Repairs Drivers Need To Know

How high are auto maintenance and repair costs in the UK?

Car Repair Loans: Everything You Need To Know

What is high mileage for a car?

How to prevent unexpected car problems