Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

Joseph Law | Author

Alastair Shephard

Content Writer

Alastair Shephard | Author

The Volkswagen Golf Bluemotion has long been a go-to for UK drivers looking for an efficient and practical hatchback. With its impressive fuel economy and affordable running costs, the Bluemotion variant of the Golf has been popular among commuters, fleet buyers and private motorists.

However, while the Golf Bluemotion delivers strong on efficiency, is it free from faults? In this guide, we take a closer look at the known issues and real-world problems experienced by owners across the UK.

Overall, the Golf Bluemotion fares reasonably well for reliability. Certain model years, especially earlier Mk6 and Mk7 Bluemotion versions, have shown patterns of specific faults. These include EGR valve issues, DPF (diesel particulate filter) problems, and concerns with the DSG gearbox.

What Car?’s reliability survey gave the 2013 - 2020 Golf a 90% reliability score, but they aren’t completely free from problems. However, many of the more serious issues can be mitigated with preventative maintenance and regular driving, something particularly important for diesel variants.

One of the most frequently reported problems in Golf Bluemotion models, especially diesel variants, is the failure of the EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation) valve. Symptoms include a loss of power, 

The EGR valve can become clogged with carbon deposits, particularly in cars used for lots of short journeys. The cost of replacing the valve can be anywhere from £300–£600, depending on labour costs and model year.

Some owners have also reported carbon build-up in the intake manifold, leading to reduced performance and fuel economy.

All Bluemotion diesel engines are fitted with a DPF, or 

 However, these filters require regular high-temperature runs to self-clean through a process called regeneration. When used mainly for short trips or urban driving, the DPF cannot reach the required temperature to regen, leading to issues.

This issue is common among many modern diesel cars, not just Volkswagens, but is a known weak spot in Bluemotion models when not driven appropriately.

Many Bluemotion Golfs were sold with a DSG automatic gearbox. These offer great efficiency and performance, but need to be maintained to avoid costly faults. A bad DSG gearbox will cause: 

These issues can stem from mechatronic unit faults or clutch pack wear, particularly in earlier Mk6 models. Repairs can be costly, upwards of £1,200, so it’s vital to check the car's service history for those all-important gearbox service receipts.

It’s worth noting that VW extended some warranties on DSG boxes due to widespread issues in earlier production years.

Many Bluemotion models come with automatic start/stop systems to improve fuel efficiency. However, several owners have reported that the system:

While often just an annoyance, issues with the start/stop system can sometimes relate to low battery charge or faulty sensors. 

This may just be a symptom of the car's age, with most batteries only lasting around 5 years, but it’s worth checking that the start-stop function works effectively on any prospective car.

Despite these known faults, the Golf Bluemotion remains a very popular and sensible choice for many UK drivers, particularly for those doing regular long-distance driving where the diesel engines perform best.

That said, buyers should avoid high-mileage examples without full service history, and look for cars that have not had DPF issues, and have the DSG gearbox serviced. 

For those doing mostly short trips or city driving, a petrol or hybrid alternative may be more reliable and cost-effective in the long run.

If your car, regardless of if it’s a Volkswagen Golf or Porsche, develops an expensive issue, Bumper could help by spreading out your car repair costs with easy 

. Choose from one of hundreds of national, 

, and get zero-percent interest on car repairs, tyres and more.

 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.

VW Golf Bluemotion Problems / Reliability Guide

This question is popping up more and more for Brits these days. What used to be a go-to engine is now uncertain for shoppers. 

From stricter emissions regulations to evolving technology, we have more options, and making a decision is tougher than ever. 

Let’s look at the pros and cons of purchasing a diesel car in the current market. 

Diesel engines aren’t a complete no-go. In fact, for certain drivers, they still make a whole lot of sense! 

Here are a few benefits and positive reasons to choose a diesel engine.

Diesel engines are inherently more fuel-efficient than their petrol counterparts, particularly for larger SUVs or frequent long motorway drives.

If your idea of a short drive is further than your local shops, a diesel could save you a tidy sum at the pumps. But a diesel might not be the best bet if you rarely hit the road for long.

Diesel cars will always be associated with towing, as they produce more torque at lower RPMs, which means they’re excellent for towing, climbing hills, and overtaking slow-moving lorries. 

Diesel engines are built to withstand higher compression ratios and typically have a longer lifespan than petrol engines. 

When properly maintained, a diesel car can rack up hundreds of thousands of miles, making it appealing to high-mileage drivers who want a car that goes the distance. 

 to tackle those last-minute service bills.

Diesel cars can still be a good option for long trips and may save money under current tax rules (depending on your company’s policy). 

But for the best long-term savings, especially with company car tax perks, electric cars are the smarter choice.

When buying a used car, bigger diesel models often keep their value better than petrol ones. 

Newer diesels that meet Euro 6 standards also hold their value since they’re exempt from charges in clean air zones like London’s ULEZ.

But looking ahead, it’s unclear how used diesel prices will change after the 2035 ban on new diesel sales. With fewer vehicles on the road each year, a lower supply could help keep prices strong.

While diesel cars still have their strengths, there are now several key drawbacks to consider, especially when considering the modern competitors. 

Many UK cities now operate low-emission or clean air zones, which penalise older diesel vehicles (like London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ).

If your car doesn’t meet Euro 6 emissions standards, you could face daily charges just to drive into town. This typically affects those registered before 2016.

Diesel engines produce more nitrogen oxides (NOx) and particulate matter than petrol cars, which can contribute to poor air quality and respiratory issues. 

This is essentially why they’ve become a target in clean air strategies around the UK, and with greener electric options around, people are opting for new, more sustainable alternatives.

Diesel fuel is often more expensive per litre than petrol, and this price gap has widened in recent years. You might still benefit from better fuel economy, the savings aren’t always as clear-cut as they once were.

Sure, EVs have a higher initial cost. But once you look at their monthly running costs, you will notice that diesel engines are suddenly looking much more expensive. 

Modern diesel engines are fitted with Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs) to trap soot and reduce emissions. 

However, if you frequently do short trips or city driving (or drive less than 12,000 miles per year), the DPF can become clogged, leading to expensive repairs and time with your car in the garage. 

Similarly, other diesel-specific parts, such as high-pressure fuel pumps, can also be costlier to replace if they go wrong.

Older diesel cars cost more in road tax (VED) due to higher CO2 emissions. 

In fairness, newer diesels are cheaper to tax, but EVs are still cheaper with no VED. Plus, diesel drivers pay much more in fuel tax than EV owners pay in electricity VAT.

Diesel cars won’t disappear overnight. There’s still a future for these vehicles, as over 11 million are still on UK roads, and many will continue to run into the 2040s. 

 looming, and shifting public opinion due to their environmental impact, their long-term timeline looks uncertain.

Car manufacturers are also shifting their priorities toward hybrids and electrics. So, the options are also dwindling. 

In short, diesel is being gently but firmly shown the exit.

Unsure whether you should buy a diesel car? Let’s look at the pros and cons of diesel vs petrol, hybrid, and electric cars.

Is it worth it? Should I buy a diesel car?

The real answer is ‘it depends.’ Diesel cars don’t suit everyone, and it depends on your driving habits, where you live, and how long you plan to keep the vehicle. 

Diesel cars still have a role to play, but it’s no longer centre stage. 

Rather than being a go-to, diesel cars are best for drivers who go the distance and need a more robust option. However, for those who drive under 15,000+, live near a low-emission zone, or want an eco-conscious car, it might be time to assess other options.

Whether you drive a diesel, petrol, or EV, staying on top of surprise costs is key.

, you can split the cost of vehicle maintenance into monthly payments without breaking the bank.

Should I Buy A Diesel Car? A 2025 Guide

Touted as the affordable Tesla by many upon its launch in 2017, the Model 3 gained serious popularity, making it the top selling EV in the world from 2018 to 2020. But does popularity necessarily mean reliability? 

This guide explains some of the common faults you should consider when buying a Tesla Model 3.

Whilst there have been some quality control concerns and safety recalls, the Model 3 is a pretty reliable car. It scored just under 94% in What Car?’s reliability survey, around the middle of the pack among other well known brands such as Polestar and Kia.

Tesla as a whole placed 10 out of 32 manufacturers in a similar survey which puts them in the top 30% of car brands in the UK, not too bad.

Across both the UK and US, the Model 3 has been affected by over 30 recalls, ranging from minor electrical faults that are fixed with a software update, to safety issues pertaining to brakes and suspension, here are some of the key ones to make sure have been addressed.

Addressed in two separate recalls, Tesla dealerships had to take back around 650 cars to ensure certain fasteners were tightened correctly. Naturally, this could have caused significant issues had it gone unaddressed. 

It’s unlikely you’ll come across a car that has not been back for the simple remedial work, but make sure to check for any un-repaired recall issues 

This recall and others like it were talked about a lot at the time, in 2019, but the reality is that very few cars were affected by this issue. The bolt held the steering column to the body of the car, something that could cause an issue during normal driving but especially in the event of an accident. 

If you do end up with a Model 3 that was affected, it’s probably worth buying a lottery ticket too, as only 5 out of the nearly 35,000 cars sold that year were missing the bolt.

Software Issue Affecting the Sound Sub-system

This is, in essence, the same issue that affected the Model Y too; an update rendered the e-call emergency alert warning system faulty. This is an issue that would only present during a crash, and affected quite a few cars, so it’s worth checking yours.

Around 9,500 cars were affected by the glitch; thankfully, reversing the update fixed the problem, with no need to visit the dealership.

Another fault that is all too common in Tesla circles is the poor bodywork and paint finish. It's suspected that the high demand for Teslas caused quality control issues to crop up. One of the things often mentioned online is debris or contaminants inside the paint finish. 

Not only is this an eyesore once you notice it, but it could lead to improper protection of the panels. If you’re buying a used Tesla, there’s likely no recourse for this issue, so make sure you check over any prospective purchases thoroughly. 

Electric cars use two electrical systems: a high-voltage system that powers the motors to drive the car along, and a low-voltage system similar to that of a normal car. Some owners experienced issues with the low-voltage system not working properly.

Whilst the issues were generally fixed promptly by Tesla, usually within one day, they did cause significant problems, and often resulted in the car being unable to drive until the low-voltage battery was charged or replaced. 

The Model 3 represents a shift in electric vehicles, from drab and boring but expensive cars, to a more exciting and cost-effective package. Both second-hand prices and finance fees are very low at the moment, so it could be a good time to buy. 

Purely on technical merit, I’d say the Model 3 is worth looking into, and the few niggly issues shouldn’t put you off entirely.

Electric, Petrol or Diesel powered cars can hit us with large unexpected bills from time to time. Bumper can offer 

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Tesla Model 3 Problems / Reliability Guide

Tesla changed the way we think about electric cars with the launch of the Model S in 2014, the Model Y represented a further leap forward, with its higher driving position and unique gullwing doors. 

Whilst the Model Y offers great power, range and tech, can it be equally as reliable? In this guide, we take a look at any common faults, and potential issues owners face. 

Yes, the Model Y is generally quite reliable. Some sources have cited mixed reviews from owners, with one stating nearly 40% of drivers discovered an issue in the first year of ownership. Despite this, the Model Y placed first in What Car?’s reliability survey.

By all accounts, the 2023 onwards cars are better built and cause fewer issues than the previous models.

On some cars built between May 2022 and September 2023, a software update was required to address an issue with the steering system. In cold weather the steering could begin to feel notchy and not smooth.

Interestingly, this fault was fixed through a software update that didn’t require owners to take their car into the dealership. Despite the initial fault meaning the cars affected may not comply with ECE safety regulations, Tesla brand the recall update as for “smoother steering”.

A recall affecting nearly 9,500 cars’ audio system caused issues with the car’s external speakers, but was again resolved through a simple software update. The issue came about due to a quirky feature that allowed owners to play audio through the cars pedestrian-warning system speakers. 

These PWS speakers are a mandated feature that helps alert pedestrians of an otherwise silent vehicle, the “Boombox” feature meant this could become non-compliant with the relevant laws surrounding the PWS feature.

Something that has been commonly reported with many Teslas, is their poor fitment and quality control on the body panels. With owners sharing images of uneven and large panel gaps online.

What's more, some owners of cars only 2-3 years old are seeing the paint issues across multiple panels, with debris inclusions and other paint quality issues. This is a known issue with the company's processes, but seems to have improved over time.

Even in 2025, Tesla offers the best charger network by far, which, coupled with the virtually unparalleled performance of the dual motor Model Y for the money, I’d say the Model Y is still a good buy. 

However, this only really applies if you are looking for the SUV bodystyle, because there are some incredible cars in other segments, such as offerings from Volvo, Polestar and BMW to name a few.

Regardless of if you drive a Tesla, Mercedes or Ford, Bumper can offer 

 to spread out your bills. Choose from one of hundreds of national approved partners, and get zero-percent interest on car repairs, tyres and more.

Tesla Model Y Problems / Reliability Guide

Car security should be a serious consideration for all UK drivers.

Vehicles are getting smarter, and so are thieves. Using advanced methods to bypass locks and anti-theft systems, they helped drive vehicle thefts to an average of 356 per day in 2023, according to the Office for National Statistics.

Fortunately, the latest security tools and theft-prevention tips can help lower your risk. Here’s what you need to know.

Statistics show vehicle theft is on the rise in many parts of the UK, and there's a growing trend in 'keyless' thefts where criminals use signal relay technology to unlock and start cars without the original key.

Beyond the obvious financial loss, car theft can increase your insurance premiums, leave you stranded, and often make you feel violated. 

However, with the right police-recommended car security measures in place, you can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim. 

Want to know what will help you keep your car secure? 

Here are some tips and tricks police provide to help Brits keep their cars safe from thieves. 

Always keep valuables out of sight, or better yet, out of the car entirely. Bags, electronics, and other tech items in plain view can attract thieves.

While you’re clearing your car, you may also want to keep your logbook and other key documents at home. This makes life easier if you do become a victim of car theft.

Hiding valuables doesn’t just apply to the car, though. 

Thieves may also look for car keys at your home to try a relay attack. So, avoid leaving keys near doors or windows where they can be easily reached or scanned through the glass.

Often, securing your vehicle starts with a few simple but effective habits. 

Many thefts happen in seconds when a car is left unattended and unlocked. Police emphasise always locking your doors and windows, even if you’re stepping away for just a moment at the garage or a friend’s house. 

 Don’t just rely on your key fob. Some criminals use ‘jammers’ to disrupt the signal. Lock up and make sure the doors are secure.

Newer cars (especially ones with keyless entry) require regular software updates. 

Manufacturers try to stay on top of vulnerabilities by offering release patches that fix any problems. If you lag behind on these, your car becomes less secure.

Good car theft prevention hinges on making your car look as difficult as possible to thieves. 

Police recommend anti-theft devices such as steering wheel locks and clamps. You can also invest in a signal-blocking wallet or pouch to protect your car keys from relay/keyless theft attacks.

We’ll explain common car theft deterrents in more detail below.

Car theft prevention devices & strategies

Boosting your car security with both physical and electronic devices is one of the best ways to protect your vehicle.

First up, let’s look at electronic devices that can deter thieves.

As discussed in the police-recommended car security section, physical deterrents show thieves that your car is not worth the hassle. The most popular deterrents include:

Keyless cars are becoming a serious target. Here are some specific theft deterrent tips for those with keyless entry:

It’s even suggested to disable your keyless entry when not in use. But you’ll have to check your car manual for specific instructions. 

best car security strategies consider all possibilities. 

Alongside the police tips and additional anti-theft devices, consider these additional plans and behaviours to protect your car.

The best place to park is a well-lit, busy area or car park with CCTV coverage. Avoid dark and quiet areas, as these provide the best coverage for thieves.

Use a garage if possible when at home, or park in a driveway close to your property. Park the car facing toward the house, as this can make it harder to tow.

Out of sight is always the best strategy.

Avoid leaving them in plain sight or near entry points to prevent keyless theft. You may also want to invest in a secure, signal-blocking pouch for extra security.

Yes. You should remove your sat-nav, infotainment system, and stereo if possible. 

While these might seem like standard car parts, they can attract thieves who want to resell them. This is especially vital if you’re leaving your car for long periods of time. 

 Also, remember to remove sat-nav holders and suction marks from your windscreen. These are just as telling.

Car security doesn’t end with shutting the car doors these days. 

Instead, modern drivers need to practise extra caution through careful behaviours and car theft deterrents. Start practising the tips in this blog today, and you’ll lessen the chances of theft in no time.

Keeping on top of car security can save you extra cash. 

But last-minute car repairs can leave a dent in your wallet. And that’s where Bumper comes in handy.

, you can split the cost of vehicle maintenance into interest-free monthly payments.

Apply online for up to £5,000 and choose from 1,000s of trusted repairers. 

Car Security - How To Protect Your Car From Thieves

Keyless car theft might sound impossible, but it’s a real risk for those with modern cars.

Also known as Relay Theft or Relay Crime, this theft happens when thieves use signal amplifiers or relay devices to trick the car into thinking the key fob is nearby, allowing them to unlock and start the vehicle without the actual key.

Learn how thieves exploit these systems and how to enhance your security with the tips below. 

Keyless car theft only takes 20 to 30 seconds. A scary thought for all drivers.

Keyless or relay car theft happens when thieves use a device to capture the signal from your key fob, even if it’s inside your house. 

The signal is then relayed to someone near your car, fooling it into thinking the key is nearby, unlocking and starting the vehicle. Thieves often use signal boosters, relay boxes, or code grabbers to open cars. 

This method is quick, quiet, and doesn't require physically breaking in, which is why it's become so popular.

keyless car security and keeping your keys safe. 

Here are some of the best ways to protect your vehicle:

When you're not using your key fob, store it in a Faraday pouch or box, also known as signal-blocking pouches. 

These pouches block the signal so thieves can't boost keys and trick your car into unlocking or starting. They’re lined with metallic materials, making this possible. 

Pouches tend to cost from £5 to £10. Very simple, but really effective.

Installing a steering wheel lock and car alarm adds visible security, making your car a harder target for thieves, reducing the risk of damage and saving you from costly repairs.

In the unfortunate case of damage, you can use 

 to split the costs and strain on your wallet. 

Some keyless fobs let you manually turn off the wireless signal. Check your car’s manual to see if that’s an option.

If it’s not mentioned, it’s worth contacting the manufacturer to find out, as this is an effective preventative measure.

Want to make sure your vehicle is visibly yours? 

Etching the last seven digits of your VIN or registration onto windows, headlights, and mirrors makes it much harder for thieves to change your car’s identity after a keyless theft.

Parking your car in a garage overnight is ideal to prevent keyless theft by increasing the distance from signal-boosting thieves.

But garages aren’t an option for everyone. 

If this is the case, park close to your home, use outdoor lighting or CCTV, and choose well-lit streets as these deter thieves.

Cleaning the car isn’t anyone’s favourite task. 

However, a clean, organised car with no valuables like phones or sat navs is less likely to be stolen. You may even want to leave your glove box open to show there’s nothing to hide.

Many drivers use a tracking device that can help locate the car if it’s stolen. 

It’s a worst-case scenario measure, but it gives you a better chance of getting it back if thieves do succeed.

If you have a keyless entry car, try to keep your keys far from doors and windows, as this can grant thieves a better signal. 

Don’t forget to do the same with any spare set!

As soon as you notice your car keys are missing, contact an auto locksmith. 

These are experts who deal with vehicle locks and can remove stolen keys from your vehicle’s database to prevent their use.

Cars with a poor keyless car theft security rating

Any car with keyless entry is at risk of keyless car theft. 

tested 237 keyless cars and found some are more at risk than others. 

Where should you keep your car keys at night?

safest place to keep car keys at home overnight is anywhere away from doors and windows. You may also want to use a signal-blocking pouch to keep your keys extra secure.

Storing your car key fob in a metallic tin may help prevent keyless car theft by blocking the signal. However, it's a good idea to test it first to ensure the signal is effectively blocked first.

Do car manufacturers do anything to prevent keyless car theft?

Many car manufacturers are now offering keyless entry protection, such as motion sensor fobs and Faraday bags, but not all of them cover this possibility yet.

For example, Kia offers a Faraday bag to block signals, while Ford Focus, Fiesta, BMW, Audi, and Mercedes have motion sensor key fobs that go into sleep mode after 40 seconds of inactivity to block thieves from accessing the car’s signal.

Does car insurance cover keyless car theft?

Most insurance policies cover keyless theft, but they may require proof that you still have all available keys. It’s worth checking with your insurer to see whether your policy covers this.

Keyless car theft is an unfortunate possibility for modern drivers. However, with a few simple steps you can reduce the chances and keep your car safer than ever while it’s parked. 

Keyless car theft can leave you with huge costs—just like last-minute repairs!

, you can split the cost of repairs into monthly payments at no extra cost. 

Keyless Car Theft - How to Avoid Relay Theft

Mandatory speed limiters are systems built into cars to stop you from driving too fast. However, they’re not as restrictive as you’d think. 

Speed limiters are becoming a legal requirement across the UK as lawmakers aim to make roads safer and reduce road accidents. 

On this page, we’ll explain how they work, which cars are affected, and what British drivers need to know for 2025 and beyond.

Mandatory speed limiters are systems that use smart speed-limiting tech (also known as Intelligent Speed Assistant ISA) to monitor and restrict your driving speed.

ISA uses GPS and camera-based traffic sign recognition to understand the speed limit in any given area. 

If the driver goes over the speed limit, the mandatory speed limiter reduces the engine's power and slows the car. The driver will also receive a visual or audio warning if they exceed the speed limit. 

For example, if the car determines that the speed limit is 30mph and you try to do 40mph, your car will push back slightly on the pedal to warn you and reduce speed.

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