1 in 5 UK drivers admit to driving unsafe cars because they

and a quarter of drivers aged 17 to 24 say they put off repairs to avoid extra costs. This results in many dangerous vehicles on the road and a higher likelihood of 

Repairing your car is critical. To help manage the costs, a significant proportion of drivers use payday loans to cover car expenses. However, this isn’t always the best solution either. 

In this article, we’re exploring why payday loans aren’t always the best idea for car costs with honest advice and unbiased information. 

Before we discuss the pros and cons of payday

, we’ll quickly provide an overview of what they are. 

A payday loan is a short-term, unsecured loan that often comes with high-interest rates. These are also known as salary loans, payroll loans, payday advances, or cash advance loans. 

Payday loans are usually available for £500 or less and are a popular option for those with lower credit scores. But they’re not your only option.

It’s vital to be informed before applying for any 

. Here are the transparent benefits and drawbacks of payday loans for car repairs. 

Alternatives to payday loans for car repairs

Realising your car needs urgent repair is stressful. Before you sign up for a payday loan, consider alternative options and assess how they’ll affect your finances. 

Alternative payment options for car repairs include: 

Payday loans vs Bumper’s interest-free finance: A comparison

loans are used for car or vehicle expenses

, but they often have large interest rates. Typical interest rates work out to be 1,300% APR. 

In fact, one company we found offering payday loans for car repairs estimated a 6-month £2,000 loan would cost £3273.94, including interest. This is 

Companies offering payday loans tend to prey on those with 

‘Payday loans for bad credit’ is a phrase that appears frequently when searching online. This may seem appealing if you have a low credit score, but you’ll likely be charged a much higher interest rate. 

Finder.com reported that the average payday loan user is younger, between the ages of 25 and 30, single, in rented accommodation, and on a low income, with a household income of less than £1,500 per month. 61% of these users admitted to feeling less confident about managing money. 

Payday loans may seem like a quick solution to your car repair problems but could leave you with large amounts of interest to pay and your credit score negatively impacted (if you’re unable to make the repayments). 

Why interest-free loans are more sustainable than payday loans

 interest-free, buy now pay later loans for car repairs keep things simple. 

They have a 0% APR, meaning what you borrow is exactly what you pay. The garage covers the lender's cost in the form of a small percentage charge, so there is no need to worry about depositing extra cash to cover the interest. 

 and risk management systems uses artificial intelligence to make lending decisions based on previous loans, meaning we can lend responsibly and not push customers into debt. 

It also ensures we can lend to many people. Our average acceptance rate is 95%. 

Participating garages offer interest-free loans. Our' find a garage' tool allows you to find local garages using your postcode. 

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to car financing. However, it’s important to understand that payday loans aren’t always as friendly as they seem. Hopefully, this blog has helped you understand how payday loans work and encouraged you to conduct your own research before choosing one car repair financing method. 

 helps you spread the cost of any repairs at no extra cost. With 0% interest and the chance to split bills of up to £5,000, we’re here to help when your car goes wrong. We also offer quick online pre-approvals, allowing you to skip the paperwork and access help whenever needed. 

Apply online and find a reliable service partner today. 

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.

Here’s Why You Should NOT Use Payday Loans For Car Repairs

Credit cards can quickly come to the rescue when you’re short on cash. But while our plastic friends have often had our backs when faced with a large bill, a new form of payment has grown in popularity: Buy Now Pay Later (BNPL). 

BNPL is a finance option that allows you to make purchases by splitting the cost into monthly payments, often interest-free. Currys, Ikea, ASOS, Pretty Little Thing, and Very.co.uk are just some of the big names offering the option as an alternative to credit cards. 

But which one is better? How do BNPL vs credit cards measure up? Today, we’re delving into the two options to help you get an unbiased option. Let’s go. 

, it’s helpful to consider the pros and cons of both options. This gives you a transparent view of both, allowing you to choose the one that’s right for you without any false marketing. 

First up, here are the pros and cons of credit cards. 

Get your FREE credit report with Checkmyfile 

to see what lenders may see when they check your report. Try it FREE for 30 days, then £14.99 a month. Cancel anytime.

Next, we’ll look at the advantages and disadvantages of 

. Remember these before signing up for anything! 

Buy Now Pay Later vs Credit Cards - How do they measure up?

So, how does each side fare in the buy now pay later vs credit cards fight? Both options have positives and negatives, so which one is best for you is down to your financial needs. 

Here’s a quick comparison between the main factors: 

 is a Buy Now Pay Later provider for car repairs and servicing. 

We’re here to take away the stress of breakdowns and hefty repairs with 0% interest financing. You can spread the costs and match with an experienced garage near your home. 

When it comes to being accepted, Bumper provides an instant response so you know if you’ve been accepted there and then. 

 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.

Buy Now PayLater vs. Credit Cards

It’s pretty normal for drivers to continue driving with dashboard warning lights on. The fear of large repair bills is enough to put many drivers off taking their vehicles to a garage. 

But failing to take action when your car warns you of a problem can be a costly and sometimes dangerous decision. 

In this guide, we examine what dashboard lights mean and what to do if they pop up. No more ignoring that check engine light symbol! Scroll down to get started. 

The Check Engine Light or Engine Management Light links to the Engine Control Unit and is displayed if there is a problem with your engine’s performance. Depending on how urgent the warning is, the light can illuminate in different colours.

Here’s a quick overview of each colour: 

The Engine Management Light and Engine Control Unit cover a variety of sensors all over the vehicle. This makes identifying the problem difficult. Here are some common causes of the Check Engine Manage Light: 

What should you do if the check engine light comes on?

If the check engine light comes on, note the colour of the light. If it is an orange or amber colour and you feel the car is performing as it should, you can continue your journey, but make sure you book in with a garage as soon as possible. If the check engine light is red, you should find a safe place to stop and contact a 

 service. It is not recommended you continue your journey. 

Don't panic about the possibility of repairs, as 

 can help with 0% interest monthly instalments. 

. The ABS prevents your vehicle from skidding by quickly releasing and applying the brakes on the wheel. 

If the ABS light comes on, your brakes may still work, but the ABS might not engage, which may be a problem if you need to make an emergency stop. 

If the ABS and brake system lights are on at the same time, then your vehicle is unsafe to drive. Also, if the ABS light is illuminated, you should drive carefully and 

 in with a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. 

 is here to help with car repair costs. Split the cost of your car repair in interest-free monthly instalments. 

If the battery light on your car illuminates and stays on, this indicates there is a problem with the 

. There are three reasons this could happen: 

This is the most common reason. Over time, the terminals on the battery can erode, or the cables can become unplugged or damaged. If there is damage, the battery won’t be able to hold charge from the alternator. Your battery may need replacing. 

The alternator creates the electrical charge stored in your battery. It powers the headlights, radio, heater, and electric windows. If the alternator fails, no electricity will be generated, and your car will eventually lose power and stop. 

 belt can be a severe problem, as the belt controls not only the alternator but also the coolant pump and power steering. If the battery light stays on, the engine becomes hot, or you find it hard to steer, you may have a problem with the alternator. 

What should I do if the battery light appears?

You should turn off unnecessary electrical systems such as the radio and headlights (if it is safe). 

If you are close to home or a garage, you can continue to drive cautiously for a short distance until your vehicle is checked by a qualified mechanic. 

If you are far from home, you should not continue to drive. If your power steering fails, you may find it difficult to drive. It’s important to note that once you turn your engine off, a damaged battery may not charge enough to turn it on again. 

Also known as the low tyre pressure light, the Tyre Pressure Monitoring System alerts you when the pressure is low. 

Underinflated or overinflated tyres can result in tyre wear. Overinflation results in decreased traction. This will result in premature wear at the centre of the tyre. 

Underinflation will cause your car to feel sluggish, decrease fuel economy, and create excessive heat build-up. This will result in premature wear on both sides of the tyre. 

 using a gauge and adjust it according to your car’s manual. If the light continues, you may have a puncture. 

 You should have your tyres changed or repaired by a professional if this light turns on. 

5. Traction Control Light/Stability Control

The Traction Control System is activated when your car detects one or more of the wheels has lost traction. This can happen in wet or icy conditions. 

When traction is lost, the engine transfers power from the slipping wheels to the wheels with grip. If the Traction Control Light is illuminated and stays on, the system has a problem. 

In some vehicles, the light illuminates when the system is engaged and goes off when the vehicle regains traction (you can check this in your car’s manual). 

If the light is on all the time, the system will be shut down, and you should take the vehicle to be checked by a qualified mechanic. You should also take extra precautions while driving to the garage. 

Your car’s brakes are undoubtedly its most important safety system. If the brake light comes on and stays on when the hand brake is disengaged, your brakes could have a problem. 

The most likely reason for this is low brake fluid. Using your owner’s manual for guidance, locate the 

 reservoir and top up, if necessary, to the correct amount. 

Make sure to use the correct fluid for your engine. This can be found in the owner’s manual. You may have a leak if the light remains on when the fluid is at the correct level. 

. If it sinks slowly to the floor, check under your vehicle for any yellow liquid leaking. You may have a problem with your brake pads if there is no leak. The warning light can stay on when brake pads are significantly worn. 

Some cars have a separate light for worn brake pads that looks like this:

You should not drive further with a brake fluid leak or worn 

. Carefully stop in a safe place and contact a breakdown service. 

There are several reasons the Oil Pressure Warning light could be illuminated. Here are some common ones: 

Oil lubricates the engine, ensures all the moving parts are working correctly, and helps the cooling and cleaning process. If the oil is not kept at the correct level, you could cause costly damage to the engine. 

Check under your car — if an oily patch is underneath, you must contact a qualified technician. 

 by locating the dipstick. Remove the stick and wipe it with a cloth. Once wiped, replace the stick and pull it out again. You will be able to see the level of oil. 

If you’re unsure how to locate the dipstick or what the correct oil level should be, this can be found in your car’s manual. 

Reason 2: Your oil pump needs to be replaced

If the oil pump isn’t working, the pressure will drop. This makes it hard for the oil to lubricate the moving parts in your engine, which may result in the engine making a loud noise while running. 

Check your oil level. If it is fine and there is no sign of a leak, the light may indicate a faulty pump. You should not continue to drive with a faulty pump — this could cause a lot of damage to your engine. 

If your oil level is fine, there is no sign of a leak, and your car sounds and runs normally, it could be a faulty sensor. It is not recommended that you drive your vehicle. You should contact a breakdown service. 

The Engine Temperature Warning light indicates your engine is overheating. You should stop when it is safe and check the coolant levels under the bonnet. Be careful when doing so, as the bonnet could be hot. 

If you’re unsure how to locate the coolant tank, consult your car’s manual. 

If necessary, top up the coolant and wait at least 30 minutes for your engine to cool before continuing your journey. 

The fuel indicator light means your car is low on fuel, and you should fill your tank as soon as possible. 

Can I drive with the fuel indicator light on?

It is not recommended you drive far with the fuel light on. 

You should keep your tank around a quarter full at least to keep the fuel pump lubricated. If the fuel pump is continuously unlubricated for extended periods of time, this can significantly reduce its life span and make it expensive to replace. 

How many miles can I go with the fuel indicator light on?

You may have to drive with the fuel indicator light on if you're far from your nearest garage. 

How many miles you can travel differs greatly between car makes and models, and other variables such as tyre pressure, gear choice, and the road surface can have a big effect. 

Here is a rough guide for popular models taken from the RAC:

 The arrow next to the light indicates which side of the vehicle your fuel cap is located. 

Common reasons for the airbag and seatbelt warning light illuminating are: 

If dirt has become stuck in the seatbelt catch, this can cause the seatbelt to not lock properly or cause the computer to think the seatbelt is not fastened. 

The wires under the driver or passenger’s seat can be damaged by items being stored or trapped under them. 

The car’s clock spring allows the steering wheel to turn whilst maintaining the connection between the electrical system, horn, and airbag. 

If the clock spring is damaged, the airbag and seatbelt light may illuminate. 

The car may have been in a minor accident that wasn’t big enough to trigger the airbag but triggered the warning light. In this case, the light would need resetting. 

Dashboard Warning Lights: A Complete Guide for Your Car

 from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) has revealed the average age of cars on UK roads is now 8.4 years - the highest ever on record.

The closure of car showrooms for long periods throughout 2020 meant fewer new cars were registered.

Currently, the average car on UK roads was built in 2011, with 10 million cars in service since 2008 or earlier.

The growing average age of vehicles on the road means consumers are more at risk of having to pay for unexpected repairs.

With the UK’s economy struggling to recover from the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, over half of UK adults would find it very difficult or impossible to immediately pay an unexpected bill of £500 or more.

Consumers who are struggling to pay or would prefer to spend their disposable income elsewhere are increasingly turning to Buy Now Pay Later to alleviate some of the stress and pay back large bills in manageable instalments.

Bumper helps drivers split repair bills into interest-free payments, so they can keep their car in tip-top condition without breaking the bank.

Apply online and search for local garages in our network by 

Average age of cars on UK roads increases to 8.4 years

When was the last time you changed your tyres? 

How long tyres last and how many miles you can get out of them depend on several factors, and it’s vital to recognise when your tyres need replacing. 

While obvious damage like a puncture might be easy to spot, tyres may also need replacing if worn down or simply too old. 

So, how do you know when your tyres need to be replaced, and how much will it cost? Read on to find out how many 

 and the signs you need to change yours. 

Most tyre manufacturers and safety groups state 

The European Tyre and Rim Technical Organisation 

 states that tyres may be considered new for five years from the date of manufacture. However, tyres can last long if they are undamaged or not used often. 

 regularly for signs of wear and damage, but most garages recommend having them professionally checked. 

Professionals with a trained eye will easily spot immediate hazards and any areas of damage that might get worse if left unresolved. 

It might be better to consider the number of miles tyres last rather than thinking of it in a time period. 

How many miles do tyres last on a new car?

, your tyre life will depend on your vehicle, your driving style, and the type of roads you drive on. 

The average driver should get a minimum of 

out of their front tyres on a standard front-wheel drive car, while rear tyres can get up to 

Learn about replacing wheel bearings and their cost

As with any repairs to your vehicle, costs will vary depending on the 

 the smaller and narrower the tyre, the cheaper it will be. Thick tyres suitable for 4x4s are much more expensive than a standard run-around car. 

When buying car tyres, you really do get what you pay for

and it’s best to spend a little more. Fitting the wrong type of tyre on your car to save money could risk your and others’ safety. 

 can help you split the cost of tyres with our car repair finance options. Find a local garage 

It’s possible to repair car tyres, but it depends on the extent of the damage. Factors that will decide whether a

Your tyres may look healthy, but there could be invisible damage. These are the main warning signs that you should change your tyres. 

 replace your tyre if you have a puncture.

 However, depending on the depth and position of the damage, it may be possible to repair very minor punctures. 

One of the most common reasons for replacing your tyres is when the tread wears away and becomes 

 You can check this by yourself using a tool called a tyre gauge or by following this simple tip. 

 in your tyre periodically. These are signs that something is wrong. 

Old tyres can be brittle and age-racked with wear. Check for exposed or broken wire beads on your tyres, as this is another key sign they need a change. 

Realising you need new tyres isn’t always pleasant. Depending on your car needs, tyres can quickly rack up a hefty bill. However, 

split the new car tyre cost with interest-free monthly payments

Learn more about how our pay later tyre scheme can help you today. 

The easiest way to check your tyre tread is via the 20p test.

Take a 20p coin and place it in your tyre treads. If the tyre covers the outer band of the coin, then your tread is still within the legal limit. 

If not, it may need replacing, and you should visit your local garage as soon as possible. If you need more information on what to check on your car regularly, check out our 

handy guide to car checks before driving.

What is the legal minimum depth for car tyres?

The legal minimum depth of tyre tread for cars and other light vehicles is

across the middle three-quarters of the tyre. 

If it’s any less than this, you could be

and get 3 points on your licence. This is your sign to check your tyres! 

When you look closely, you’ll see each tyre is embossed with a unique set of markings. One of these markings is known as a DOT code. This acts as a unique code for your tyre, meaning you can identify how old the tyre is. Perfect if you want a cheat code or check your tyre’s age! 

DOT codes are made up of a string of several numbers and letters. But you only need to worry about the final four digits. 

DOT codes are a handy way to check your tyre’s age. Don’t forget to check the spare tyre’s age, too! You don’t want this to be too old to use if you ever need it. 

Apart from the risk of a fine, the condition of your tyres can also have a big impact on the car's performance

Worn-down tyres may have reduced grip, which could impact acceleration and breaking, so it really pays to have tyres that perform well. 

 on the back and front. Because tyre tread can have a big impact on handling, replacing just one tyre could cause your car to be unbalanced when moving. 

What should you do if your tyres are too old?

If your tyres are too old or have signs of wear, it’s time for a change to protect your safety. This means a spot for tyre shopping. 

However, remember these points to ensure a good fit before buying the first tyres you see. 

There comes a point when all tyres need a change. But you can extend their life by looking after them well. Here are a few tips to keep your tyres in good condition. 

Proper inflation is critical for a healthy car. To ensure your tyres are inflated, frequently check their pressure using a gauge and top them up as needed. 

If you install new tyres or notice vibrations when driving, you need to balance your tyres. You equalise the weight distribution around the tyre assembly and wheel to balance your tyres. This improves driving performance and reduces stress on the tyre. 

Harsh acceleration, sudden braking, sharp turns, and irresponsible driving can increase tyre wear and tear. 

Overloading your vehicle can put extra strain on your tyres and increase wear. Check your car’s manual to see the recommended weight capacity. 

Rotate your tyres approximately every 6,000 to 8,000 miles. This extended their wear and overall lifestyle, as tyres are no longer worn down in the same place. For example, you might rotate your tyres from side to side or back to front. 

Keeping on top of your tyre changes is critical for your safety, that of other road users, and your bank account. So, avoid last-minute costs and frustrating flat tyres and check your tyres regularly. You’ll thank yourself when you catch old tyres early! 

Do you need to replace your tyres? Are you looking for a garage that can split your payments into interest-free monthly instalments? Choose from 3,000 locations and sort it today with 

How long do car tyres last?

Fuel economy is often the last thing on drivers’ minds but with fuel prices rising higher than ever this summer you may want to pay closer attention.

In this guide, Bumper breaks down what fuel economy is, how it’s calculated, which cars are the most fuel-efficient, and what habits may be costing you more on the road.

Fuel economy is how far your vehicle can travel in relation to the amount of fuel used. This is measured in miles per gallon (MPG).

If your car gets 40 MPG, that means you’ll be able to drive 40 miles on one gallon of fuel. The average for UK cars is 37.8 MPG.

Hybrids can usually achieve a longer range. For example, the 2016 Prius can achieve around 50 –55 MPG.

A metric used most frequently in the US is MPGe. This represents the number of miles an electric vehicle can travel using the equivalent energy produced by a gallon of petrol – 33.7 kilowatt-hours of battery power.

A study by What Car? which simulated motorway, rural and town driving, found the top 10 most fuel-efficient cars to be:

What could be causing my vehicle to use more fuel?

Changing your oil frequently can reduce fuel consumption.

For newer vehicles (registered after 2013), new technology and improved fuel consumption mean you should only have to change your oil every 7,000–10,000 miles.

For older cars, oil changes should be carried out around every 3,000 miles.

A study by Automotive Service Excellence revealed that worn spark plugs can reduce your fuel economy by up to 30%.

Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

Here’s Why You Should NOT Use Payday Loans For Car Repairs

Buy Now PayLater vs. Credit Cards

Dashboard Warning Lights: A Complete Guide for Your Car

Average age of cars on UK roads increases to 8.4 years

How long do car tyres last?

Reducing Fuel Consumption: A Complete Guide for Drivers