Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

Joseph Law | Author

Alastair Shephard

Content Writer

Alastair Shephard | Author

Isobel Coughlan

Isobel Coughlan | Author

As longer, warmer days are approaching, more people will be looking to hit the road and drive onto the continent for a holiday. Road tripping gives people a unique look at different places and travelling by car means you can take in so many different locations on your journey. 

However, there can be some important things to consider and look out for to make everything run that little bit smoother! From preparing your car to improving your route and getting clued up on rules and costs, 

Below is a list of the top 10 things to consider before setting off on your European driving adventure! 

1. Check your route in advance so you’re prepared for tolls. 

Tolls are a major part of driving in France and other European countries so can add a large chunk of money to your total holiday cost. The Michelin Route Planner can be a great tool for this as you can input details of your specific car and it will generate not only the route and tolls cost but also a fuel estimate! 

Sometimes it’s easy to take for granted the condition our cars are in. When you’re heading out on a cross-country road trip you may be doing more miles in a week than you would usually do in a month. Therefore it’s even more important to check things, such as the condition of your tyres that will deteriorate faster than usual if you use them more. 

3. Make sure you have all the right documents 

When you’re taking your car abroad it’s always worth making sure you have a printed copy of your car and travel insurance documents, breakdown cover and your driving licence. If you’re stopped by the police or have an accident this will make your life much easier. We mentioned tolls above, but you may also need to pay for these in advance (or as you cross the border you can sometimes purchase these too), for example, in Switzerland you need to buy a Vignette to drive on their motorways. 

4. Familiarise yourself with driving laws 

Driving laws vary from country to country and it’s always worth researching what you’ll need to prepare before you leave. When you cross the Channel into France, it’s often easy to pick up a travel pack that includes stickers to alter your lights, breathalysers, roadside breakdown triangle and more to cover you for a lot of requirements. However, rules vary slightly over borders even within the EU. 

5. You might need an International Driving Permit 

If you have a plastic photo driving licence from the UK you’re permitted to drive in the EU, Norway, Iceland or Lichtenstein without getting an additional permit. However, if you’re still using a paper licence, or if your licence came from Jersey, Guernsey, Gibraltar or the Isle of Man you may also need one. 

6. Think about your route before you leave 

Sometimes it’s easy to hit go on the sat-nav and follow it blindly to your destination, but sometimes this can also put you in Paris during rush hour. With a little bit of research, you can usually find a route that will get you there on time and also let you stop to see some extra sights along the way. 

7. Let Google Maps do what it’s good at 

This might seem like a bit of a cop-out but when you’re travelling hundreds of miles in a day, you don’t want to waste precious time stuck in traffic. Some people may choose not to use Google Maps because of roaming charges while abroad, but if you do then make sure you download offline maps for the regions you're travelling to. This means that if you lose signal or turn your data off while travelling you should still be able to follow a route and won’t get lost - but you will lose traffic updates. 

If you know some of the places you want to stop, that can take the pressure off on your drive. For example, if you’re driving with young children and you know they’ll need to stop every couple of hours then finding services with toilets, good food and fuel all at the same time can be a massive help. Some gaps between fuel on European motorways can be large, particularly if you’re switching roads, and it’s best not to be caught out! 

 are also something that varies between countries, as strange as that might sound! It’s definitely worth getting familiar with what you might need to do if you end up stopped on the hard shoulder of a European motorway. Hopefully, you’ve made sure you have European breakdown cover and if you call they should be able to assist you, but that’s not always the case. 

10. Pack goodies to make the drive easier 

It’s always worthwhile to make sure you have snacks and drinks packed in case you can’t stop or don’t want to keep stopping. Then there’s another vital kit such as making sure you have your music - and can play it once you’re out of the UK! In some cases, this might mean going old school with CDs or checking you have your playlists saved for offline mode so you’re not downloading them around the continent. 

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.

10 top tips for driving in Europe 

Having your car repaired can be a frustrating experience, especially when the mechanic doesn’t actually fix the car! This can result in more time, 

If you have a problem with a car repair or 

, the best thing to do is negotiate the best solution with the garage. If your negotiations fail, you can take additional steps to resolve your issue. 

This article will explore what you can do if you paid for a car repair, but the car wasn’t fixed and what steps you can take to protect yourself and your vehicle. Let’s dive straight into it. 

I paid for a car repair but it’s not fixed 

So, you’ve paid for a repair, but it’s not fixed. Now what? Do you have to pay still?

You can expect a refund if you have paid for a repair service, but your car has still not been fixed. Or, the mechanic should fix the problem at no additional cost to you. 

If the mechanic refuses to do either, you may need further action. 

It’s important to remember the specific instructions before accusing a garage of charging for nothing. Diagnostic services cost money, time, and expertise, such as when a complex issue is present. 

What happens if the dealership can't fix your car in the UK?

You should consult your vehicle's warranty. If your car is still under warranty, the dealership may be obligated to fix the problem at no cost. 

You can also take your car to another dealership or a reputable independent mechanic for a second opinion. If the problem is confirmed, you may be able to negotiate a better solution with the first dealership. Note that you’ll have to pay a diagnostic fee, as mechanics don’t give second opinions for free. 

File a complaint with the manufacturer. If the problem is widespread and the dealership can't fix it, you may want to file a complaint with the manufacturer's customer service department. They may offer a solution or a goodwill repair. 

What to do when the mechanic doesn't fix the problem 

If you’ve realised the mechanic hasn’t fixed the initial problem, it can be tough to know where to start and do you have to pay the mechanic if they haven't repaired your car? Here are three steps you can take if your mechanic hasn’t fixed your car. 

Before taking any action, it is crucial to understand your rights. If you have paid for a repair service, you can expect the problem to be fixed. 

If the problem persists after the repair has been made, you can seek a remedy, which can be a repair or a refund. 

The first step in dealing with a mechanic is to contact them and explain the problem. Speak with the garage in person or over the phone; you may be able to remedy the issue swiftly. 

If they don't agree to correct the issue right away, you should write or email the garage. This is to record the situation and your correspondence with them. A paper trail is essential if the situation escalates! 

If you're having trouble with the garage, you have alternatives for getting the work done or claiming compensation. However, you should always try to negotiate with the garage first. 

While you are disputing the bill, the garage cannot sell or dispose of the vehicle. They can, however, 

Before spending more money on rental cars or travelling, always ask your garage what they can do to assist you. For example, they may be able to provide you with a courtesy car. A court is unlikely to award you money if the garage provides services you did not use. 

When disputing a charge, it's a good idea to keep a record of any extra money you have to pay for travel, as well as receipts. You may need to prove this later on. 

Other steps you can take if you paid for a car repair but the car wasn’t fixed

Here are some additional steps if your repair wasn’t fixed. These may not apply to all scenarios, so check whether each tip is relevant to your situation before acting. 

We understand the last thing you want to do is pay for an unfixed car. 

However, if you need the car back but are unhappy with the price, you can pay 'under protest' and continue your case. This indicates you are paying the whole cost but informing the garage that further action is likely. 

Write "paid under protest" clearly on their copy of the repair order form and any copies of receipts made by the garage. If you do not state that you are paying under protest, it will be difficult to obtain reimbursement later on because the garage may argue that by paying the bill, you accepted the charges. 

There's no assurance you'll receive your money back afterwards, but it isn't impossible. If you can't afford to pay, offer to pay a modest sum in exchange for the car's return, then dispute the balance of the invoice separately. 

Investigate whether the garage is a trade organisation member (for example, 

). These organisations can help settle disputes, and you can usually find affiliations on the garage’s website. 

Some trade groups will provide a free service to assist you in resolving your disagreement with the garage, which may include obtaining reimbursement (e.g. being out of pocket or wasting your time). 

Contact the trade association and explain your situation—this is sometimes referred to as a 'conciliation service'. However, an association can only assist you if the garage is a member. 

3. Use an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Scheme 

Enquire if the garage is a member of an alternative dispute resolution (

) system. This is a method of resolving problems without going to court. A third party will mediate to try to reach an agreement. 

Keep a record of when you ask them if they don't respond, aren't part of an ADR scheme, or won't utilise an ADR. You’ll need these details if you do end up in court. 

Going to another garage is a dangerous alternative because you'll almost certainly need to go to court or a trade association to be reimbursed for the extra money you spent on the work. There's also no guarantee that you will receive your money back. 

Some cars won't be able to go to another garage due to safety concerns. Assess whether your vehicle is safe to drive before attempting to drive it. 

5. Report the garage to trading standards 

You can report the garage to Trading Standards if they quote one price but charge another. 

You can also report misleading advertising or unfair tactics. Reporting the garage may mean that they do not mislead future clients, but it won’t help your current situation. 

Generally, a car repair should take a few days. 

a car can vary greatly depending on the issue's complexity. 

If the repair is taking longer than expected, it is essential to communicate with the mechanic to find out what is causing the delay. 

My car was damaged by the garage during a service 

If your car was damaged in the garage, you should try to get them to pay for the repairs. It's best to point out the damages as soon as possible. Otherwise, you'll be perceived as having accepted what's happened. 

The most they have to provide is the cost of repairing the damage. For example, if somebody scratched your car door, they should cover the expense of repairing the door rather than purchasing a new door. 

To bolster your argument, you can prove that you know your legal rights. Remind them that you're aware that "

traders have a responsibility of care under the Consumer Rights Act 2015.

The garage may put a notice on their property stating they are not responsible for any damage. This is an 'unfair term,' which means they are still accountable. You should inform them of this. 

How to assess the damage from a car service

If you suspect damage from a car service, you need to stay calm and collected. Rash decisions can go against you in the future. Here are some steps you can take to assess the damage: 

Some car owners take photos and notes of their cars before services to act as a comparison afterwards. This can be helpful for future services. 

What to do if the garage refuses to make repairs

Contact the garage's insurance company, the trade association, or the car manufacturer for assistance if they refuse to make repairs. 

If the garage refuses to accept liability and you must file a claim with your insurance, your no-claims bonus may be affected, so also check with your insurer. 

What if the mechanic created a new problem? 

A mechanic may introduce a new problem while attempting to repair an existing one. This can be aggravating and may necessitate more time and money spent on correcting the problem. If this occurs, contacting the mechanic and seeking a remedy is critical. 

You may be able to claim for the damage on your car insurance, depending on the type of insurance you have. If you do, you may forfeit your no-claims bonus. You might also contact the garage's insurance carrier to get them to pay for the repairs. They are not, however, legally required to do so. 

How to find a reputable garage - Final thoughts

After paying for car repairs but not receiving a satisfying fix, you might want to avoid garages and mechanics for a while. However, don’t forget that plenty of reputable garages exist. 

Take the stress out of car repairs with Bumper’s expert connections and customer-centred financing. 

Bumper’s wide network of approved partners is vetted and approved. Plus, 

Bumper offers zero-interest financing for car repairs

 to help get you back on the road as quickly as possible. Enter your postcode and registration plate to 

 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.

What If The Mechanic Doesn't Fix My Car? 

On average, a ball joint replacement costs £90 in the UK.

Replacing worn-out ball joints is essential for keeping your ride smooth and safe, but the cost can be higher than expected.

In this ball joint replacement cost guide, we’ll break down the process and help you make a smart, budget-friendly decision.

How much to replace a ball joint in the UK?

The average ball joint replacement in the UK costs £90, but prices typically sit between £75 and £180, depending on your car and how many joints need replacing.

Labour is a big part of the bill, especially if specialist tools or skills are needed. Extra parts like bolts or gaskets can also add up. Let’s take a closer look at prices and the factors that affect them.

Cars known for ball joint wear (and cost guide)

Some cars are more prone to ball joint wear than others, and when they go, the repair bill can vary. 

Here's a quick look at models known for frequent issues and what you can expect to pay to put things right.

Ball joint replacement cost guide by car make 

Can’t see your vehicle in the table above? We’ve listed the average ball joint replacement costs per popular manufacturer below.

How location affects ball joint replacement cost

Did you know your location can also affect your ball joint replacement costs? Mechanics in London and other big cities tend to charge more than those in smaller towns. 

How long does it take to replace a ball joint? 

The time required to change a ball joint can vary depending on how much work needs to be done and the mechanic's skill. 

The average lifespan of a ball joint is between

If driven in rough conditions or poorly maintained, your car’s ball joints may wear out faster. Different vehicles have varying lifespans, so regular maintenance checks are essential to keep ball joints working well and extend their life.

How much should it cost to get a ball joint replaced?

There’s no one price for every ball joint replacement. Several key factors influence the potential cost, and these include:

If you can’t pay the cost in one go, you can consider Bumper's 

Ball joints connect the control arm or steering knuckle to the wheel hub, acting like a shoulder joint to allow smooth suspension and steering movement.

Upper ball joints help absorb turning forces and maintain alignment. Lower ball joints serve as pivot points and may carry the vehicle’s weight or simply guide movement, depending on the suspension setup.

Ball joints often cause loud clunking noises when driving over bumps or turning due to metal rubbing on metal from wear or looseness. 

But that’s not the only sign to look out for. A bad ball joint can cause several issues, including:

If you notice any of these, get your car checked promptly to avoid costly repairs. Many worn ball joints are caught during routine MOTs or service visits.

Front ball joints usually wear out first because they handle the stress of steering and manoeuvring. 

There are two main types: metal, which is more durable and expensive, and rubber, which is cheaper but wears out faster, especially under tough conditions like off-roading or rough terrain.

Driving with failing ball joints is dangerous and can cause steering issues, uneven tyre wear, and loss of control. It may also be illegal in some areas. 

If you must drive, stay within speed limits, avoid highways, and watch for pulling or vibrations. Address the problem promptly to keep yourself and others safe on the road.

What happens during a ball joint replacement? 

Most ball joint replacements follow the same process. Here are the main steps:

If replacing all four ball joints is too costly, start by fixing only the faulty ones to save money and time.

However, if all need replacement, it’s best to do it promptly to avoid further damage.

Replacing them one at a time can help spread costs, but the priority is to address the issue before more damage occurs.

Ball joint replacement can be costly, but it’s worth it.

These components are key to safe steering and handling. Replacing worn joints early helps prevent further damage and keeps your car driving smoothly, safely, and as it should.

Replacing your car’s ball joints can be a bit pricey, but it’s key for keeping you safe and steering smoothly. 

Keep an eye out for signs of wear so you can fix problems early before they turn into bigger and more expensive issues.

Need to cover a surprise ball join replacement cost?

, 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. 

How Much Does a Ball Joint Replacement Cost? (UK Guide)

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Wegweiser und Kosten zum Austausch der Kugelgelenke

MOT and servicing – they often come up at the same time, especially when it’s time for your annual garage visit. But they’re not the same thing, and knowing the difference can save you money, time, and stress. Let’s break it all down: what an MOT involves, what a car service includes, and why both are essential for keeping your car road-ready. 

An MOT is a mandatory annual test that checks whether your car meets the minimum safety and environmental standards set by the Ministry of Transport. It’s a legal requirement for vehicles over three years old in the UK.

If your vehicle doesn’t pass its MOT test, you can’t legally drive it, and you could be fined up to £1,000 for doing so. MOTs are all about road safety and making sure your vehicle isn’t emitting more pollution than allowed by emissions standards.

Did you know? Nearly 10 million cars failed their MOTs in 2024 – 

An MOT checks for everything that affects a car’s safety, legality, and emissions, including:

A car service is a routine check-up that keeps your vehicle in good condition. Unlike an MOT, a service isn’t required by law, though skipping it can lead to bigger (more expensive) problems later on. 

There are different types of service, depending on your service schedule and mileage. Here’s a breakdown of what’s usually included:

These service items help maintain your car’s condition, boost reliability, and keep your car aligned with manufacturer standards. Skipping them can reduce your fuel efficiency and increase the chance of breakdowns.

MOT vs service: What’s the actual difference?

 from Bumper splits the cost of MOT and service work into manageable 0% interest instalments. 

 at one of our 5000+ partnered garages to keep your car in good condition without breaking the bank.

Yes, you do need to keep on top of all MOTs and servicing because: 

Even if your MOT passes, you might still need a service to stay ahead of wear and tear. And if you only service your car but skip the MOT, you risk driving a car that isn’t roadworthy.

If you’re unsure when you should book your next MOT or service, here’s a quick guide: 

If possible, book them together. Not only does this save time, but it can also get you a better deal on each.

Stay road-ready and stress-free with Bumper’s car repair finance

Need an MOT and service but dreading the bill? With Bumper, you can split the 

 into handy, interest-free payments. Whether it’s your annual service, MOT, or an unexpected repair, our 

 helps you stay in control and on the road. Join thousands of drivers and take the sting out of your car upkeep. 

An MOT test usually takes around 45–60 minutes if no repairs are needed. A car service can take 1–3 hours, depending on whether it’s an interim, full, or major service. If carried out together, allow half a day to complete both, especially if issues are found.

 for cars. A service varies depending on the type:

Booking both together often saves money compared to separate visits.

Yes. Electric cars still require an MOT after three years, just like petrol or diesel cars, to ensure safety and roadworthiness. While EVs don’t need oil changes or exhaust checks, they do need servicing for brakes, tyres, suspension, battery health, and software updates to keep them running safely and efficiently.

The difference between MOT and service

Starter motor replacement costs usually sit around £300 to £500 for UK drivers in 2026.

In this blog post, we'll tell you the average cost of a starter motor replacement in the UK, costs per popular makes and models, and provide tips on extending your starter motor's life. Scroll down to become an expert on starter motor repair now.

How much does a starter motor replacement cost?

The cost of replacing a starter motor in the UK can range from £300 to £500 depending on the make and model of the car. 

This variation is mainly due to differences in parts pricing, labour time, and how accessible the starter motor is within the engine bay. 

Prices can also sit lower for smaller, more common vehicles, while premium brands or more complex engine layouts tend to push costs toward the higher end of the range.

Average starter motor replacement cost by car model

Here are the average costs based on the most popular vehicle brands in the UK based on 2026 averages.

If you're worried about an expensive car repair bill, then Bumper could help. Split the cost with 

Average starter motor replacement cost by UK location

Starter motor repair costs in the UK vary depending on where you live. This is due to labour costs, parts and materials availability, and service demand. 

 Bumper reminds you to take into account the make and model of your car, too!

Below you’ll find averages per UK region in 2026.

Can a starter motor be repaired or does it need replacing?

In some cases, a starter motor can be repaired, but this depends on the nature of the fault.

Minor issues such as worn brushes, corroded connections, or faulty wiring can sometimes be fixed without replacing the entire unit.

However, in most modern vehicles, starter motors are replaced rather than repaired because:

This means the majority of starter motor issues end up requiring a full replacement, which is why understanding the typical cost range is important when planning a repair.

Why is starter motor replacement so expensive?

Starter motor replacement can feel expensive because it involves both parts and labour-intensive work.

Even though the starter motor itself may not be extremely expensive, the labour required to remove surrounding components is what pushes the total cost into the £300 – £500 range for most UK vehicles.

Starter motors power the combustion engine. They are like the electric motors that turn your engine on when you switch the ignition.

The starter motor requires a lot of torque to turn the engine at such fast speeds, pulling fuel and air into the cylinders to compress them simultaneously.

The starter is found on the driver's side of the engine. Typically, it's just beneath the left bank of cylinders.

How do you know if your starter motor has gone?

There are a few key signs your starter motor has gone.

If your car won't start and you hear a clicking sound when trying to turn it on, the most likely cause of this is a dead starter motor.

In addition to hearing a clicking noise, you might smell something burning from under the hood. This is typically caused by an electrical short in the starter motor, which can be due to wear and tear over time.

Here’s a complete list of signs your starter motor has broken:

Replacing the starter motor will usually solve these issues, but it comes at a cost, so make sure you know how much it may cost before committing to any repairs.

Common starter motor problems are caused by age and faulty parts. Here’s a quick overview of other possible causes:

If you suspect your vehicle has any of these issues, consult a garage for professional advice.

average lifespan of a starter motor is around 5 years or 50,000 miles

. However, this can vary depending on how 

Advice

10 top tips for driving in Europe

What If The Mechanic Doesn't Fix My Car?

How Much Does a Ball Joint Replacement Cost? (UK Guide)

The difference between MOT and service

How much does a starter motor replacement cost? (2026)

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