Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

Alastair Shephard

Content Writer

The anti-lock braking system (ABS) in your car is a vital safety feature that vastly improves braking performance. The pumps that operate the ABS are complex devices that can sometimes have issues. 

In this article, we’ll discuss how much it can cost to repair an ABS pump, what symptoms to look out for, and when to take your car to a garage. 

How much does it cost to repair an ABS pump?

Repairing a faulty ABS system can cost between £200 and £2,500, depending on the cause of the problem

In some cases of ABS issues, the ABS pump can be repaired, or the problem may not be directly with the pump itself. Listed below are some possible issues with the ABS.

If the brake fluid is the issue, it might cost between £60 and £200 to fix.

Because the ABS pump has very narrow channels inside, debris such as water, air, or rust particles from degrading brake lines can block it up. In some cases, a flush of the system followed by a fill and bleed with fresh fluid can resolve the issue. 

Replacing a wheel speed sensor or ABS sensor can cost between £50 and £150.

Most ABS systems use sensors on the road wheels to detect their rotational speed. When it detects one of the wheels has stopped spinning – i.e. has started skidding – it will activate the ABS. 

If one sensor has developed a fault, the system is likely to go into a fault state and display a warning message on the dashboard.

If the system simply needs bleeding, this can cost between £40 and £120.

Brake systems are designed to be a sealed system. Air in the lines or any of the components will result in a poor pedal feel at best and brakes that barely work at worst. If air gets into the ABS pump, it can prevent it from working correctly.

Bleeding the ABS pump in many modern cars involves plugging it into the appropriate software to activate the pump and bleed out the air, so it can sometimes be a main dealer or specialist garage-type job.

What is ABS, and what does the ABS pump do?

Anti-lock braking or ABS systems work by pulsing the force applied to the brakes in order to prevent skidding. This greatly increases the performance of the brakes on wet or loose surfaces, reducing braking distances greatly.

The ABS pump, also known as the ABS modulator, module, or motor, is responsible for detecting and pulsing this braking force by communicating with the wheel speed sensors, and working in line with the braking system.

It is composed of multiple components, but all of these are susceptible to faults, through various actions such as circuitry degradation, water ingress or blockages from contaminated fluid. 

How to know if your ABS pump needs replacing

In most cases, the first indicator will be an error light or warning on the dashboard; it typically appears as a circle with the letters ABS inside, or in some cases, will simply show as an amber or red error symbol. 

There are three likely ways in which an ABS pump will cause a fault:

When you should take your car to the garage for ABS issues

Because ABS is so vital to your car's braking performance, especially in wet conditions, it should be treated as a priority when any issue is detected or even suspected. 

If you have noticed any of the issues listed above or have a warning light on your dashboard, have the car inspected by a mechanic as soon as possible. 

Not only is it a safety issue, but knowingly driving with a braking fault could land you with a hefty fine and even points on your license.

Split the cost of an ABS repair into monthly payments with Bumper's 

Most ABS faults are not caused by driver error or poor maintenance, but simply degradation of the highly precise components that make up the pump. That said, there are some steps to take to avoid ABS issues.

If your car's brake fluid reservoir runs too low, it can draw air into the system, which can seriously affect braking and ABS performance. 

It should also be noted that frequent fluid top-ups may be a symptom of a leaking or broken brake line -something that should be addressed immediately.

Change your brake fluid at the correct intervals

Brake fluid changes are needed because the fluid can degrade and absorb water over time. This can cause issues with both the ABS and the normal braking system. 

Check your user manual to see when your brake fluid should be changed, it is typically every 2-3 years and 20,000 - 30,000 miles.

Check for water ingress under your bonnet

As part of your monthly maintenance checks, look for evidence of water ingress around your ABS pump. This can be caused by failing or missing seals that allow water to run off the windscreen when parked. 

If this water is constantly leaking onto the ABS pump or other components, it can cause corrosion of the metal parts, and issues with the circuitry and electronics. 

Facing a costly ABS repair? Split your bill with Bumper's 

. Bumper is completely interest-free and you can apply online before your visit to a Bumper garage.

 has been writing about cars for over eight years and writing for Bumper for over three, 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.

ABS Pump Repair Cost

 Renewing your car insurance is a chore. However, taking your time and getting it right could save you a significant amount of money. 

The best time to renew your insurance is 28 days before it runs out. 

Many drivers simply renew at the last minute without considering timing. But this can lead to you potentially missing out on cheaper premiums. 

In this article, we’ll explore the best time to renew your car insurance, how timing affects your car insurance quotes, and other practical ways to reduce your renewal costs.

When is the cheapest time to renew car insurance?

Research shows that your renewal date can have a real impact on how much you pay. The best time to renew your car insurance is usually around 

Waiting until the last minute may not always be the most cost-effective strategy, as the data shows the costs are most expensive on the day before. 

In fact, renewing a few weeks before your policy expires can often secure lower rates.

The table below shows the average premiums at different times leading up to a policy renewal, according to 

Does time of day affect car insurance quotes?

If the day you renew makes a price difference, you might wonder if getting a quote at 9 am versus 9 pm affects the price. 

Generally, insurers base quotes on factors like your driving history, car type, and location, rather than the exact hour you request the quote. 

While some anecdotal reports suggest prices can fluctuate slightly at different times of day, the differences are usually negligible. What matters more is how far in advance of your renewal date you start shopping around (in terms of days, not hours).

How to bring car insurance renewal costs down

Aside from timing, there are several other ways to reduce your renewal premium. If you have time, use these to get a better quote on your policy.

You can also bring your car-related fees down by using 

 to split surprise repair costs into interest-free instalments.

Don’t just accept the first quote you receive. Use comparison tools and websites to find the best price for your needs. 

But always read the fine print of what’s on offer before you make a final choice!

Evaluate whether you need comprehensive cover or if simple third-party, fire, and theft might suffice. 

Look at the value of your car and how much protection you realistically need when making this choice.

Opting for a higher voluntary excess can lower your premium, though make sure you can afford to pay it in the event of a claim. If you’re unsure, it’s best not to commit to a higher excess.

Sometimes, insurers give out loyalty discounts and multi-car policies. There are even safe driver incentives that can reduce renewal costs. 

So, while you’re renewing, it’s also a good time to review your driving habits. Could you drive more safely? 

What is the 21-day rule for car insurance?

The so-called “21-day rule” refers to the guideline that insurers often allow you to renew your policy up to 21 days before your current cover ends without losing benefits such as no-claims bonuses. 

Starting your renewal process within this window ensures continuous cover while giving you some time to compare quotes and lock in a better deal.

While the 21-day rule is useful to keep in mind, the research above shows that the most cost-effective time to renew is actually around 28 days before your policy expires. Consider renewing slightly earlier than the 21-day window to secure the lowest premiums while still ensuring uninterrupted coverage.

Which comparison site is best for car insurance in the UK?

Renewing your insurance well in advance is essential, but comparison sites are an invaluable tool when comparing different car insurance deals.

In the UK, popular platforms such as MoneySuperMarket, Compare the Market, and GoCompare allow you to compare hundreds of policies from different providers quickly. 

Each site has its strengths: some offer unique discounts or cashback deals, while others provide more detailed filters to narrow down coverage options. In our opinion, it's worth checking at least two or three comparison sites to ensure you’re seeing a comprehensive range of quotes. 

Remember, not all insurers appear on every site, so relying on just one platform could mean missing out on better deals elsewhere.

Ultimately, if you want an affordable car insurance deal, you need to carefully balance timing, comparison, and careful evaluation. It’s a good rule of thumb to renew around 28 days before your policy ends, so don’t put this task off until it’s the very last second!

Expensive car insurance deals are a bummer—just like surprise repair costs.

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.

When Is the Best Time To Renew Car Insurance?

Subframes make up a significant amount of a car's structural integrity, being the thing that ties the suspension to the body shell. However, like any underbody component, they are subject to extremely harsh conditions, especially in the UK, with our damp, salted roads.

This article explores the costs involved with repairing a corroded subframe and what to look out for when having the work done. 

Almost all modern cars have both a front and rear subframe; these provide stiffness and strength for the suspension components to mount to the bodyshell. The front subframe typically also supports the engine, gearbox and drivetrain components. 

Car subframes are almost always made from steel, which is a strong and cheap material to use. It does, however, rust readily if not sufficiently protected.

The cost to repair a corroded subframe can range from £300 to £3,000, depending on how bad the corrosion is, and how complex the car is.

Minimal rust can often be wire-brushed and treated, which could cost as little as £300 and be done in an afternoon, but if your subframe is very rusty and needs replacing, expect to pay a much larger bill.

Factors that affect subframe repair cost include:

Cars are mainly made of steel, a metal very susceptible to corrosion in the right circumstances. Water causes the iron in the metal to turn into iron oxide, AKA rust. Thanks to our decidedly wet weather in the UK, cars here are more susceptible to rust than most. 

Another contributing factor is salt, which accelerates the corrosion process, and with tons of it being spread on UK roads every winter, poorly protected cars don't stand a chance!

If you cannot avoid driving on UK roads throughout the winter, there are some things you can do to protect your car's subframe and entire underbody from rust:

The best way to protect your car from corrosion is to avoid driving in the winter, but this is obviously not feasible for most people, the next best option is to apply a protective coating to the subframes, suspension components and underbody. 

Products such as Lanoguard and underbody sealant can help protect the metal, but be sure to apply them only when the metal is free from rust; otherwise, any existing rust will continue to spread under the coating. 

Mud and salt can also stick to the underside of your car, especially if the roads are particularly dirty. Pressure washing the suspension, wheel arches and underbody may be a bit extreme for most, but it can help to prevent corrosion in the long term.

How to check if a car's subframe is rusty

Take a look under the car at both the front and rear. The subframe should be easy to spot; look for where the suspension arms are attached to, it will be a different colour to the bodyshell.

If you’re looking at a car for sale, or simply want to check your own car, it can pay to see if the subframe is rusty, look for obvious signs of rust, large amounts of orange, or powdery rust is cause for concern. 

If you need a subframe or any suspension work, Bumper's 

 is a great way to spread the cost, interest-free. Select from a large list of approved garages and ease your cash flow. 

Subframe Corrosion Repair Cost

With how expensive certain brands and types of tyres are nowadays, being able to repair a puncture can be a great money saver, should a nail or some other piece of debris find its way into the tread. 

But how much does tyre puncture repair cost, and when can it be done? 

In the UK, tyre repair typically costs between £30 and £40 per tyre.

Naturally, this figure varies by location, type of tyre to be repaired and the type of shop you go to. National chains often have online deals or coupon codes you can make use of, but local independent repair shops may be more flexible with bookings.

Most garages will follow the same rules on when a tyre can or cannot be repaired, these are generally dictated by the British standard BSAU 159 - which can be found online. 

Whilst the standard above is quoted by most garages as the defining guide on what can and cannot be repaired, each company is likely to have its own policy on this.

This company-specific policy is likely to be more cautious than the British standard, for liability reasons, so in some cases a garage will decline to repair a tyre, instead advising you to buy a new one.

No, run-flat tyres cannot be repaired, even if the damage is in the main portion of tread, and is smaller than the max permissible size. 

Run flat tyres are designed to allow the car to be driven a short distance - typically around 50 miles - after a puncture. However, this causes irreparable damage to the tyre’s sidewall, so the tyre should no longer be used.

Getting a puncture is annoying at best, and can sometimes be very expensive if the tyre can't be fixed. Here are some tips to avoid damaging your tyres:

Split the cost of expensive repairs with Bumper's 

. Choose from 1000s of garages and apply online before your visit.

Tyre Puncture Repair Cost

Your car's exhaust not only reduces the sound of the engine, but also carries harmful fumes to the back of the vehicle instead of allowing them to enter the cabin. If your exhaust is damaged, you should get it fixed as soon as possible. 

But how much does an exhaust silencer cost to fix? This article will explain all. 

How much does it cost to repair an exhaust silencer?

Exhaust repair costs range from £30 for a simple repair to over £600 for a replacement part, depending on the car and type of garage.

Sometimes a patch or clamp is all that's needed, in which case a mechanic could have you back on the road in under an hour, with a bill of around £30 - £50.

In some cases, a new part is required, such as a back-box or centre silencer; these can range from £220 to over £500, including fitting.

There are a number of issues that could crop up at an MOT, particularly if the exhaust is leaking gases:

The term “exhaust” generally refers to a number of different parts that attach to one another. Whilst not all cars will have all of these parts, the following list includes most of the parts you need to know about:

Split your exhaust silencer replacement cost with 

 from Bumper. Choose from 1000s of reliable repairers across the country to split your bill with. Apply online and find a garage on our network today.

Exhaust Silencer Repair Cost

When your car suddenly starts squeaking, rattling, or making any other unusual engine noises, it’s usually a sign that something’s off. The good news is that strange car noises are often early warning signs, which means a timely intervention could save you from expensive repairs.

Let’s walk through nine common car noises, what might be causing them, and what to do next.

1. Why is my car making a noise when I turn?

If you hear clicking, knocking, or a grinding noise while turning your car, it’s often linked to issues with your CV joint, power steering system, or suspension components.

What should I do about a noise when turning?

If you hear clicking, knocking, or whining when turning, avoid driving long distances until it’s inspected. Check your power steering fluid level if you can, as low fluid can cause whining sounds. Clicking or clunking often points to worn CV joints or suspension parts, so have a mechanic look at it promptly to avoid further damage.

How much does suspension repair cost in the UK?

2. Why is my car making a rattling noise?

If your car is making a rattling sound while driving (or even idling), it usually means something under the bonnet or near the exhaust system is loose or worn out.

What should I do about a rattling noise in my car?

Check under the car when it’s cool for any visibly loose heat shields or exhaust parts. If the rattle gets louder while idling or driving, book a mechanic appointment soon. Rattles can be harmless, but they can also point to failing exhaust mounts or catalytic converter issues that need attention.

How much does it cost to replace an exhaust?

Ticking noises are usually an early sign of issues with your engine’s lubrication system of valve components. You might notice the ticking more when the engine is cold, or after the car’s been sitting for a while. While some ticking noises can be harmless, others can lead to performance issues or even severe damage if left unresolved. So, what causes ticking sounds in a car?

What should I do about a ticking noise in my car?

Start by checking your engine oil level and condition. If the oil is low or dirty, top it up or change it to see if that helps. If it continues, don’t ignore it – have a professional mechanic check it out. 

50% of UK drivers delay repairs due to cost

, and many end up paying the price with bigger, more expensive problems down the line. 

4. Why is my car making a squeaking noise?

If your car makes a squeaking sound when braking, accelerating, or starting up, it’s usually down to something worn, loose, or under stress.

What should I do about a squeaking noise in my car?

Start by checking the likely causes: brake pads, the serpentine belt, and the clutch if you drive a manual. If the brake pads look thin or worn, replace them as soon as possible. 

If the squeak happens on cold starts or when you accelerate, have the serpentine belt inspected for wear or tension. And if you hear it while changing gears, get the clutch checked. A quick visit to a mechanic can confirm the issue and prevent bigger problems later.

5. Why is my car making a whistling noise?

A whistling noise while driving usually means air is escaping from part of your engine, often through a cracked hose, vacuum leak, or damaged seal. The sound can be high-pitched and may get louder when accelerating or idling. This is one of those noises that’s easy to overlook, but it could be masking a much bigger problem with your engine’s air-fuel mixture.

What should I do about a whistling noise in my car?

Check for any obvious leaks in vacuum hoses or the intake system and listen carefully when the engine is idling. If you suspect a loose or damaged hose, avoid driving long distances until a mechanic inspects it, as air leaks can affect performance and fuel economy.

If one of these car noises turns into a real issue, don’t panic about the bill. With Bumper’s interest-free 

, you can avoid a lump-sum payment and handle the cost like a pro. It’s a smarter alternative to a traditional car repair loan, with no interest and no stress. 

6. Why is my car making a knocking noise from the engine?

If you hear a knocking or thudding noise from your engine, especially when accelerating, there might be some abnormal combustion or worn internal components.

What should I do about a knocking noise from the engine?

Stop driving if the knocking is loud or persistent, as it could signal serious engine damage. Check your car’s oil level and fuel quality, then book a professional inspection as soon as possible. Engine knocks can quickly worsen if left untreated. 

7. Why is my car making a scraping noise when driving or braking?

A scraping or grinding sound (especially when slowing down or turning) usually means some friction between parts of your car. It’s a noise you should never ignore, as it’s often linked to your car’s braking systems or wheels. You might notice the noise gets worse when you press the brake pedal or drive at low speeds. 

Avoid driving until you find the cause. Check for debris around the wheels and look for signs of worn brake pads. If the noise persists or braking feels weaker, get your car to a mechanic immediately, as braking issues can be dangerous.

8. Why does my car backfire when accelerating?

during acceleration, this could be a backfire caused by fuel igniting outside the combustion chamber. While it sounds dramatic, it’s often down to a simple issue that can be easily corrected.

What should I do if my car backfires when accelerating?

Check your fuel quality and make sure your car isn’t overdue for a service. Backfiring often points to ignition or fuel system issues, so arrange a professional inspection quickly to prevent damage to your exhaust or engine.

9. Why does my car vibrate while driving?

If your car feels like it’s vibrating or buzzing at higher speeds, it’s usually a sign that something’s misaligned in the wheels, drivetrain, or suspension. These vibration noises often start small and build gradually over time. You might notice them in the steering wheel, through your seat, or even under your feet. 

What should I do if my car vibrates while driving?

Slow down and pull over if the vibration feels severe or the car is hard to control. Check your tyres for visible damage or low pressure, then book a wheel alignment or mechanical check to diagnose any worn suspension or drivetrain parts.

Fix now, pay later with flexible car repair finance

If you’re hearing something suspicious, don’t wait until it becomes a major repair. With Bumper’s 

 option, you can split the cost of your fix into interest-free monthly payments, without the pressure of a lump-sum bill. Apply online in seconds, or directly through one of 5,000+ trusted garages and dealerships across the UK. Start now!

Some car noises are perfectly normal and nothing to worry about. These include the hum of tyres on the road, a soft whoosh from the air vents, the gentle sound of the engine idling, and the clicking of indicators. Occasional brake squeaks in wet weather or a faint fan belt sound during a cold start can also be normal. However, if noises become louder, persistent, or unusual, it may be a sign of a developing problem that needs attention.

A healthy engine should run smoothly with a consistent, steady hum. It’s normal to hear a quiet ticking as fuel injectors work, a low growl when accelerating, or a gentle whirring from belts and pulleys. These sounds indicate that components are operating as they should. Loud knocking, rattling, grinding, or high-pitched squealing, however, are not normal engine noises and are usually caused by an issue that needs a mechanic’s inspection.

9 car noises to look out for (and what to do)

Whether it’s a tiny chip from a passing lorry or a long crack creeping across your screen, you’ve probably got one question on your mind when it comes to repairing a windscreen: 

The good news is, repairing a chipped windscreen is usually fast, simple, and far cheaper than a full replacement. Here’s your handy guide to windscreen chip repair costs, what affects the price, and how to make your next visit to the garage a little more bearable with Bumper. 

How much does it cost to repair a chipped windscreen?

In the UK, repairing a chipped windscreen typically costs £40–£70. The exact amount depends on the size and position of the chip, the type of vehicle, and your garage’s rates.

Smaller chips, especially ones that haven’t spread, can often be fixed quickly and affordably. But leave it too long, and that small chip could develop into a full crack, leading to a 

How do professionals repair windshield chips? 

Most professional windscreen chip repairs take less than 30 minutes if the chip is small, shallow, and hasn’t started to spread. 

How much does a cracked windscreen repair cost?

If your chip has turned into a crack, the cost increases quite a bit. Replacing a cracked windscreen in the UK can cost between 

Why is a cracked windscreen more expensive?

Replacing a cracked windscreen costs more than a simple chip repair because modern car windscreens are far more advanced than they used to be – often integrated with high-tech features that require specialist parts and extra labour, including: 

These need to be carefully removed, replaced, and recalibrated when the windscreen is changed. The result? More time in the workshop, higher part costs, and sometimes even specialist tools or software to reset the tech. Expect replacement costs for these kinds of windscreens to reach anywhere up to £1,000.

Windscreen repairs are becoming more frequent and more expensive. 

According to insights from insurance firm Allianz

, the average windscreen claim in 2024 reached £327, up from £308 in 2022 – a £19 increase in just two years!

And it’s not just individual claim costs going up; the volume of claims is increasing too. More drivers are reporting windscreen issues and needing repairs, particularly for small chips, which rose 4% in 2023 compared to the previous year. Full windscreen replacements saw an even sharper increase, up 13% year-on-year.

One of the key drivers? These modern, new-fangled windscreens! 

Claims for heated windscreens alone increased by 21% between 2021 and 2023. The rise of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)-equipped vehicles is also pushing costs higher. In 2016, just 1% of windscreen claims involved ADAS recalibration. In 2023, that number jumped to 44% (that’s nearly half!). As these systems become more common, repairs require precise recalibration of sensors and cameras to make sure the road safety features work properly.

Can you repair a stone chip in a heated windscreen?

Yes, you can repair a stone chip in a heated windscreen, but it might be slightly trickier. Heated windscreens contain ultra-thin heating wires embedded between layers of glass. These wires are designed to defrost your windscreen quickly in cold weather. If a chip or crack forms near or over these elements, it can be trickier to repair without damaging the heating system. That being said, a repair is usually possible if the chip is small, hasn’t spread, and if the heating elements aren’t visibly damaged. 

Your garage may recommend replacing a heated windscreen if: 

Ford’s original heated windscreen tech – dubbed “Quickclear” in the UK – first appeared in the 1980s Granada Scorpio, using a barely visible mesh of wires to clear frost in under three minutes. It’s now a staple feature on many mainstream models, though replacing one can still cost significantly more than a standard screen.

Windscreen chips are typically caused by sudden impacts from small, hard objects that have enough force to displace the glass they hit. Here’s a more detailed breakdown: 

Harsh UK weather (e.g. hail, heavy rain, and grit spread during winter) can lead to sudden impact or gradual wear on your windscreen. Winter driving increases the risk of a chip, especially on rural or poorly maintained roads. 

One of the most common causes of windscreen chips is loose stones or grit kicked up by other vehicles’ tyres, especially lorries and vans. These stones hit windscreens at high speeds and cause immediate impact damage to the glass.

Over time, windscreen glass becomes more vulnerable to damage. Older windscreens may have developed tiny surface cracks or weakened areas due to natural wear, making them far more likely to chip when hit with even small debris.

Faulty or worn suspension components can indirectly damage your windscreen due to increased vibrations or harsh jolts when driving over potholes or speed bumps. Over time, these can weaken the windscreen structure or turn a small chip into a larger crack.

How soon should I repair my windshield chip?

Advice