Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

Alastair Shephard

Content Writer

Travelling to Europe in your own car affords many benefits, saving costs on car hire, taking as much luggage as you want, and more. 

But there are some occasions where having your own vehicle with you in a foreign country is less than ideal, especially if it’s currently broken down at the side of an Autoroute or Autobahn. 

Below we’ll take a look at how best to prepare and deal if your car breaks down while driving abroad in Europe. 

Precautions to take before driving to Europe 

Road laws differ from country to country, so it’s essential that you take note before you leave of what rules you need to follow. Don’t forget you’ll need to comply even if only passing through. 

There are a few things you need to bring for most European countries, check the specific rules for the countries you’ll be visiting but here's a rough idea of what to bring: 

The laws and customs may be different too, so make sure you comply with these, a starting point of the following things will get you most of the way, but again check specific countries' laws: 

What to do if your car breaks down while travelling? 

Regardless of country, you should pull over into a safe place if possible, then evacuate all passengers to the side of the road, ideally a short distance from the carriageway and behind a barrier. 

What happens if my car breaks down in France? 

Move the car to a safe location if possible 

If your car still drives, getting off the carriageway will be far safer than obstructing it. Be careful not to block emergency exits and lanes on certain motorways. 

Ensure everyone is wearing their hi-viz vest, safely get everyone out of the car, and have all passengers move a little way from the road, ideally to behind a barrier. Do not stay inside, in front of or behind the car. 

If the car is obstructing the road, walk 150 metres behind the vehicle, still behind the barrier, and alert other drivers of the danger. 

At least 30 metres behind the car, place your warning triangle clearly visible on the ground directly behind the car. 

Use the orange boxes at the side of the road, or call 112 from your mobile phone. Describe your location as best you can. 

Finally, wait for help to come, ensuring all members of your party are out of the direct sun or are wearing adequate warm clothes, depending on conditions. 

What to do if my car breaks down in Spain? 

If possible, move your car to a safe location

Make sure to move your car off the carriageway, without blocking any exits.

Spain has similar laws to other countries in Europe regarding hi-vis vests and waiting outside your car, so be sure to have all passengers move away from the road, ideally to behind a barrier. Do not stay inside, in front of or behind the car. 

Place your warning triangle and warning light 

In Spain, it is the law to carry two warning triangles - place your warning triangle clearly visible on the ground, at least 30 metres back from your vehicle. 

Since January 2021, Spain also requires every car to have a ‘luz de emergencia V-16’, an 

 that should be placed on the roof of your car. Complete this as per the instructions on the device. 

Use the orange boxes at the side of the road, or call 112 from your mobile phone - this number works all across Europe. Describe your location as best you can. 

What to do if my car breaks down in Germany? 

If you can, move your car to a safe location. Leaving your car on the carriageway could be very dangerous.

Put on your hi-vis vest, ensuring every passenger has one too, and wait outside your car, be sure to have all passengers move away from the road, ideally to behind a barrier. Do not stay inside, in front of or behind the car. 

Place your warning triangle clearly visible on the ground, at least 30 metres back from your vehicle. 

Call 110 for the German emergency number, and they will be able to put you through to an English-speaking advisor. 

What to do if your car breaks down on a German autobahn

Because of the higher speed limit and potential danger on the German Autobahns, a dedicated service is established to tow you from the main carriageway to a designated safe zone. 

If you’ve broken down on the Autobahn, call from one of the roadside emergency telephones, and follow the arrows on signs beside the road to get to one. 

Once safely off the motorway, call the regular emergency number or your European Recovery service should you have one. 

Should I get a European breakdown cover before going to Europe? 

 of drivers' purchase breakdown cover driving in the UK, but many of these policies don't cover going abroad, or if they do, only in certain circumstances. Luckily there are short-term policies available through most breakdown companies. 

Does my UK breakdown cover me in Europe? 

Most common breakdown services such as the RAC and AA offer varying levels of coverage, including extras such as from-home recovery if your car fails to start, unlimited callouts etc, but be sure to check with the provider if yours includes cover whilst abroad. 

None of the Basic, Standard or Complete packages offered by both the 

 mentions any European cover, but both offer a year-long European cover option. 

This can be tailored to suit how much cover you need and in what specific countries you’ll be travelling to. 

Benefits of the European cover include a 24/7 English-speaking helpline, unlimited assistance to get your car to a garage, and the cost to transport your broken car back home.

If your current provider doesn’t offer roadside assistance in Europe, there are many companies offering short-term or one-trip cover that can be very reasonably priced. 

What to do once your car is recovered back to the UK 

 Have over 3,000 partner garages and repair centres around the UK, they also make it quick and easy to split the cost of your car’s repairs into monthly payments, all with no interest or fees. 

Apply to split your bill at 1,000s of dependable service partners nationwide.

 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 I Break Down Abroad? 

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

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

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

How much does a shock absorber replacement cost?

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

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

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

 services to split these costs into interest-free repayments.

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

Shock absorber replacement cost by UK region

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

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

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

How long does a shock absorber replacement take?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What happens during a shock absorber replacement?

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

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

What are the signs of worn shock absorbers?

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

Symptoms of worn shock absorbers include:

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

What noise does a broken shock absorber make?

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

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

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

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

Can I drive my car with a broken shock absorber?

Driving with a broken shock absorber can be dangerous. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bumper knows a large repair bill on your car is the last thing you want to spend your money on, but essential parts such as shocks are crucial for you and your family’s safety. 

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.

Shock Absorber Replacement Cost Guide

Alles, was Sie über den Austausch von Stoßdämpfern wissen müssen

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here are three main ways an OBD port is used: 

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

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

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

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

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

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

There are some consumer-grade options for doing this, such as 

To test your OBD port, check for damaged pins or cable breaks. You can also try another scan tool or connect your device to another car's OBD port.

If these tests prove fruitless, you might need to work with a garage. Their professional equipment will be able to tell why the port is not responding as it should and advise on how best to fix it

Only clear OBD error codes once the vehicle is repaired or road-safe, and consider noting the codes for future reference.

What is the difference between OBD1 and OBD2? 

The beauty of OBD systems is their standardised ports, allowing any car to connect with the same cable. This is much like USB works for phones and laptops.

Car tech was limited when OBD1 was introduced in 1981, so many features we now take for granted weren't yet standard. 

OBD2 was introduced in 1996 and included many more features. This new standard was developed to be future-proof, unlike OBD1, and is still used today. 

OBD2 was introduced in 1996, but not all manufacturers adopted it immediately. Many makers only introduced it due to legislation. 

The list below will help identify whether your car has an OBD: 

Remember, your car may have an OBD2 plug, even if made before these dates. 

You will usually find your OBD port under the dashboard, rather than the engine bay. 

Some cars will also hide it behind a plastic lid, which will be labelled “OBD.’ The best way to check your specific car is to read the user manual. 

Failing that, a quick search online will almost always help. 

Whether you need to read error messages, learn more about your engine, or satisfy curiosity, there are plenty of options for every budget.

These typically plug in via a cable and display basic error messages and system parameters such as engine temp, RPM, throttle position, ignition timing, and more.

They can't typically change any parameters, though, and are difficult to use to gather data whilst on the move.

For around £50-£100, you can get a more complex OBD scanner. 

 can change your car's lighting and mirrors, allowing auto-dipping mirrors when reversing. They can also display ECU error messages. 

These tools display error messages and often include diagnostic libraries, guiding you through troubleshooting with physical and digital tests. 

Many even connect to your phone or laptop via Bluetooth.

At the high end, professional scanners are designed for garages and mechanics, costing hundreds of pounds and offering access to manufacturer-specific software for customisation, like BMW and VW tools.

Due to the complexity of these systems, they are often used in conjunction with a laptop computer and sometimes need a certain amount of training to operate effectively. 

For more information on OBD tools, Tom’s Guide did a tremendous run-down 

Can you drive with an OBD tool plugged in?

Yes, you can drive with an OBD tool plugged in. This allows you to see information as your car drives. You can even clear OBD codes while driving.

However, you should use wireless devices like Bluetooth that connect to a smartphone to avoid cables in the footwell, as these are a safety hazard. 

Always have a passenger monitor the device, and never use a mobile device while driving.

What is the best OBD2 scanner for beginners?

If you're new to OBD scanners, start with a basic, affordable tool to learn about your car's OBD port before deciding whether to upgrade or consult a mechanic.

No. Though OBD2 is a universal standard, there is a chance that the scanner isn’t compatible with your vehicle. 

Always check whether your chosen scanner is suitable for your car before purchasing. 

Can you clear codes with an OBD2 scanner? 

Yes. An OBD2 scanner allows you to check diagnostic codes and clear internal codes when not needed. 

OBD ports are crucial for emergencies and monitoring your car's health.

Knowing the type and location of your OBD port can help you access vital information quickly, saving you time and money down the road.

, you can split repair costs into monthly payments with no fees and find local garages for professional OBD assistance.

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

What is an OBD Port?

Was ist ein OBD-Anschluss?

For most of us petrol and diesel vehicles are all we’ve ever known. So, it’s no surprise that when faced with switching to a completely new fuel type it can feel a bit intimidating. 

Is the charging infrastructure in place? How much do repairs cost, and where can I find a reliable mechanic? To keep you in the know, we answer eight common electric vehicles (EV) questions. 

The first consideration when looking for an EV is the charging range. Some electrics travel further than others on a single charge, and this naturally increases the price. You’ll also need to consider if you want to go for a fully electric or a hybrid, which allows for both charging and refuelling. 

The answer to this comes down to the charging points in your area. If you decide to go fully electric, a home charging point is incredibly valuable. If this isn’t possible, make sure there’s a good number in your area or near your workplace. If you’re worried about the lack of access to a charger, a hybrid model might be the better option. 

If purchasing an electric vehicle is out of your price range, an alternative solution is leasing. An increasingly popular option for motorists, paying monthly allows those on lower incomes to afford the transition to electric. Often maintenance packages are available to help with repairs. Plus, if the vehicle is less than three years old you won’t need to worry about taking the vehicle for an MOT. 

A growing concern amongst drivers is the cost of the battery and at prices around £5,000, it’s no surprise this is a worry for some. If a replacement is required, unfortunately, there’s not much that can be done. However, this shouldn’t put you off. EVs generally come with a battery warranty for around 8 years or 100,000 miles. Most manufacturers guarantee the battery will last for 5 years. 

Charging at home is a far cheaper alternative to using public chargers, so it makes sense to have one installed. A dedicated smart charger is a much safer option than a three-pin plug as they have many built-in safety features and the smart, app-controlled nature of most chargers takes advantage of off-peak electricity tariffs. To get started all you need is a private parking space, such as a driveway or garage. A good charger supplier such as 

 makes the process easy with qualified installers. 

If you’re renting, it’s important to get permission from the landlord first. To help cover the cost, renters and landlords may be entitled to up to £350 from the 

Office for Zero Emissions Vehicles (OZEV)

To charge your electric vehicle you first need to find the charging port. This will look similar to a fuel cap but if you’re struggling, the location can be found in your owner’s manual. 

There are four main charging speeds you need to know about: slow, fast, rapid and ultra-rapid. Rapid and ultra-rapid are commonly found on motorways and the slower options are usually home chargers that make use of overnight charging. 

For mid-journey charging, it’s important to point out, that you will need to supply your own charging cable, so always keep one in the car. Plug your cable into the charging point, public chargers will require a payment, and wait for your vehicle to gain charge. 

If you move to a new property without a charger, it’s possible to uninstall the charger and take it with you. But it’s worth considering that the charging point could increase the property’s value and attract potential buyers. 

6. How do I recharge my EV away from home? 

If you’re planning a long journey, we recommend looking for charging points on your route first. You can check this on apps such as PlugShare, Zap-Map, and Charge Point. You’ll also be able to choose which has the best charging costs and plan your journey around your vehicle’s range. 

Most supermarkets and service stations have chargers, as well as some public car parks, restaurants, workplaces and hotels, but their charging speeds and prices vary so it’s always best to check first.

7. Will my usual mechanic be able to repair my EV? 

As more drivers make the switch to electric the number of garages that can repair them increases so it should be easy to keep on top of your vehicle maintenance. It’s possible your usual mechanic will be able to help to depend on the repair, but it’s always best to check with them before making a booking. If they can’t, you could book in with a specialist who should have the parts and know-how for any repairs you need. 

There are some ways EVs can even save you money. Currently, they’re exempt from road tax, however this is set to change in April 2025, when drivers will be required to pay the standard rate (currently £165 per year). In addition to this, energy supplies often have cheaper tariffs for EV charging and some public car parks offer free spaces for electric cars. For drivers who need to use on-street parking, some councils offer reduced or free permits.

Answers to 8 electric vehicle questions you probably won't have thought of 

In many ways, the electronic control unit can be considered the most important component in a modern car, through it all primary functions operate. Below we take a look at exactly what it does, and what issues it can cause.

The acronym ECU refers to a car's Engine Control Unit, there are many other control units in modern cars such as: 

As the name suggests, the ECU is a device that controls and monitors various parameters and systems in a car. The first ECUs were basic microprocessors that only monitored basic engine parameters such as 

With the advent of things such as electric windows and doors, reversing cameras and parking sensors, modern cars have multiple control units alongside the ECU, such as Body control modules, lighting modules and more. 

All of these fulfil the same function within their respective system, to control and display data about the car’s status, either changing parameters or displaying issues to the driver.

Modern ECUs control or read almost everything that happens in and around the engine. There is a plethora of sensors that report back and parameters, of which the ECU will regulate, monitor and take action. 

For instance, the ECU uses data from the engine on RPM, Ignition timing, fuel injection rates and exhaust gas composition, to detect whether the combustion is happening exactly as it should. 

In the instance of any faults, such as a misfire, the ECU will detect and make changes accordingly, whether that is to alter the ignition timing or display an error message to the driver. 

Other control units such as body-control units monitor the status of things such as bulbs, windows, door locks, wiper motors and more. Again allowing the car to display an error message to the driver. 

Typically a modern car will have around 4 different ECUs; including the engine control unit, body control unit, ABS control unit and alarm/immobiliser control unit. 

But luxury cars will often have even more than this, with some vehicles having a separate unit to control things such as infotainment systems, active aerodynamics and more. 

The most common cause of ECU damage, especially in the UK, is water damage. A lot of manufacturers mount the ECU near the passenger or driver footwell, as this is convenient for all the electrical systems whilst being protected from the elements. 

However, the elements can sometimes get into this area, as things such as car sunroofs, windows and windscreens can leak. The water can then run down into the footwell and damage the ECU. 

Advice

What Happens if I Break Down Abroad?

Shock Absorber Replacement Cost Guide

What is an OBD Port?

Answers to 8 electric vehicle questions you probably won't have thought of

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