Alastair Shephard

Content Writer

Alastair Shephard | Author

Isobel Coughlan

Isobel Coughlan | Author

Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

Joseph Law | Author

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 

 your car is and how much wear and tear your starter motor experiences.

Can you extend your starter motor’s life?

Yes, you can and should check and maintain your starter motor. This keeps you safe while on the road and protects your finances from surprise repair costs.

To extend the life of your starter motor, you can:

Can you jump start a car with a faulty starter motor?

A jump start can help if your car won’t start due to a weak or flat battery, but it won’t fix a faulty starter motor. 

Both issues can result in the engine failing to turn over, but if the starter motor is the problem, you may still hear a clicking sound or nothing at all when you try to start the car, even after jump starting. 

In this case, the issue isn’t power supply from the battery, but the starter motor’s inability to engage the engine.

 If your car starts after a jump start, the battery is more likely the issue. If it still refuses to start, the starter motor could be at fault.

Starter motor vs battery problems: How to tell the difference

Starter motor and battery issues often produce very similar symptoms, which is why they are frequently confused.

A starter motor issue, on the other hand, often includes:

How long does it take a mechanic to replace a starter motor?

to replace a starter motor. This time may differ depending on the garage and your car model.

To access the starter motor, components like the battery, alternator, and engine covers often need to be removed, which can take time depending on the vehicle layout. 

Once exposed, the faulty starter can be replaced and the new unit connected to the wiring system and secured in place.

After installation, a final check of surrounding components is recommended to ensure everything is working correctly and no related parts have been affected.

What happens if you ignore a faulty starter motor?

Ignoring a faulty starter motor will not affect your car while it is running, but it will eventually lead to starting failure at the worst possible time.

Over time, symptoms usually become more frequent until the car fails to start completely and requires emergency repairs.

In some cases, continued attempts to start the vehicle can also place extra strain on the battery and electrical system, potentially increasing overall repair costs.

For this reason, Bumper urges readers to address starter motor issues early rather than waiting for a complete failure.

Can you replace a starter motor yourself?

While it is technically possible to replace a starter motor yourself, it is generally not recommended unless you have strong mechanical experience.

Mistakes can lead to further damage or incorrect installation, which may prevent the car from starting at all. If in doubt, call a mechanic!

Does insurance cover starter motor replacement?

In most cases, standard car insurance does not cover starter motor replacement, as it is considered a mechanical wear-and-tear issue rather than accidental damage.

Some breakdown or extended warranty products may include starter motor faults, so it’s worth checking your specific policy details before getting in contact with a garage.

Is it safe to drive with a faulty starter motor?

Once a vehicle is running, you don’t rely on the starter motor, so there’s usually no immediate danger if it fails while driving. 

However, once you stop, you may struggle to restart the engine because starting requires more power than normal operation.

We don’t recommend relying on workarounds like bump-starting or parking on slopes. A faulty starter motor should always be properly repaired or replaced to ensure reliable starting.

Replacing a starter motor can be expensive, but with 

, you can extend its life and reduce the need for costly repairs.

Researching potential car repairs is no one’s idea of a good time, but we hope this blog has made your starter motor repair easier to understand. Consider shopping around for different rates before settling on one garage, and make sure your vehicle is 100% road-safe before you drive.

Here at Bumper, we know a hefty car repair bill for a starter motor is probably the last thing you want to spend your money on, but essential parts such as these are crucial for you and your family’s safety.

Look after your car and your bank balance by splitting the cost of repairs into monthly instalments, interest-free. Apply for 

Join the Bumper community and get access to the best care for you and your car. Choose a dependable dealership and split your repair bill into monthly chunks. 

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

How Much Does A Starter Motor Replacement Cost?

¿Cuánto cuesta sustituir un motor de arranque?

Wie viel kostet ein neuer Anlasser?

You may have heard of AdBlue if you've owned or driven a diesel car since 2015 or an HGV since 2009. But do you know why it's added to a diesel vehicle? Don't worry if the answer is no. That's why we're here to help. 

In this blog, we'll discuss what AdBlue is, what it is used for, what it's made from, the typical AdBlue injector replacement cost in the UK, and whether your car needs AdBlue. No stone will be left unturned! Scroll down to become an expert ASAP. 

AdBlue is a liquid that reduces harmful emissions in diesel cars.

 It is stored in a separate tank, similar to the fuel tank, and requires filling, either by the driver or as part of a maintenance service. 

It’s actually called Diesel Exhaust Fluid (or DEF) as AdBlue is a brand name.

AdBlue is needed because it reduces nitrogen oxides (NOx) from a car’s exhaust pipe. 

The Euro emissions regulations are updated every few years to improve the air quality around Europe. In 2015, the newest regulation, Euro 6, came into effect. 

This new set of regulations came with more stringent rules on the harmful emissions diesel-engined cars are allowed to emit, particularly NOx. This is a factor in clear air zones worldwide, including London’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ). 

AdBlue reduces the level of these pollutants by acting as a catalyst inside the SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) system to ensure as much Nox is burned off and transformed into harmless water and oxygen. 

AdBlue is a liquid that consists predominantly of water and urea in roughly a 70/30 mix. Other additives and chemicals are added to stabilise and colour the fluid. 

No. AdBlue is not made from pigs’ urine – this is a common myth. 

The urea added to make the product is entirely synthetic. 

Whilst urea is present in urine from all animals, humans and pigs included, no animal by-products are used in making AdBlue. 

The main reason is that the SCR system is extremely sensitive to impurities. The extra compounds found in urine would cause many issues with your car's exhaust system. 

How much does the AdBlue injector replacement cost in the UK?

An AdBlue injector replacement cost in the UK costs between £120 to £160.

However, this cost can be affected by how many fuel injectors your car needs and what type of car you have. The cost can also vary from country to country. So, make sure you're looking at prices for the right country. 

The SCR system in diesel cars was introduced to reduce the emission of Nox pollutants. It does this by combining an exhaust fluid, with the stream of hot exhaust gases inside a catalytic converter. 

AdBlue is one of the most common DEFs (Diesel Exhaust Fluids) and is fed from a separate tank, usually stored near the diesel tank, to be injected into the exhaust. 

When operating properly, an SCR system (Selective Catalytic Reduction) combined with an 

 system can reduce harmful Nox emissions by up to 

If you run out of AdBlue, the engine’s performance and power will be limited to reduce emissions. 

Cars that require the addition of AdBlue do so because their SCR systems cannot function without it. Any diesel car made after 2015 is allowed to exhaust a certain level of Nox pollution. 

Many cars, therefore, will go either into a reduced power mode, also known as a limp home mode or refuse to start together if no AdBlue is present. 

That is why keeping a small bottle in your car and other essentials is a good idea, just in case you’re caught short. 

Cars use AdBlue at different rates. Most need to travel several thousand miles to use an AdBlue tank. Some can even travel up to 10,000 miles before running out. 

In contrast to a common myth, AdFuel doesn’t burn extra fuel. Your fuel usage will remain the same as normal, even when using this product. 

What happens if you put diesel in an AdBlue tank? 

Fuel will be injected into the exhaust catalyst system, and your car will be damaged. 

This is a costly mistake, as diesel Exhaust Fuels are specifically designed to be used in a separate system from regular diesel fuel. The AdBlue should not enter the engine under any circumstances. 

AdBlue tank filler caps are often located in the fuel filler door. The filler hole is too small to allow diesel to be put in, but an AdBlue bottle could be put into the diesel tank.

If you accidentally put AdBlue in your diesel tank, call your emergency roadside assistance as soon as possible, and don’t drive the car more than absolutely necessary. 

A small amount of AdBlue could probably be diluted into the fuel to cause no issue, but it’s best to get a professional opinion in your particular situation. 

How often do you need to fill up AdBlue? 

You only need to buy and refill your AdBlue once yearly for the average car travelling 9-10,000 miles a year. 

Although different cars use different amounts of AdBlue, a typical tank will hold 15 litres of fluid and should last around 9,000 miles. 

If you’re worried about your AdBlue levels and aren’t sure what to do, you can easily take your car for an 

 where they will perform all the basic checks and look after your levels. 

Yes, you can fill your car with AdBlue yourself. Two main systems on vehicles are fitted with AdBlue: user-fillable and service-filled. 

To fill it yourself, you must use the separate filler cap for AdBlue, which is usually located next to the main diesel filler, in the boot, or sometimes in the car bonnet. 

Some other cars have a hidden filling system, usually under the boot carpet. These systems are designed to be filled by the service centre at your regular service intervals. 

Your car will show an alert on the dashboard display or system screen if it needs an AdBlue refill. 

If you’re unsure of which system your car uses or are borrowing or renting a car and the owner didn’t tell you whether to add in AdBlue, there are several key things to look out for: 

You can reset an AdBlue warning alert by refilling the AdBlue tank. Once complete, the alert should disappear. If it doesn’t, drive for a few miles to allow the system to reset. 

If the warning doesn’t disappear after 10 miles, there might be an issue with the AdBlue sensors. Your vehicle’s manual should have more information about this. But if not, you should schedule an appointment with a mechanic. 

Most diesel cars that meet Euro 6 standards need AdBlue. However, some of them rely on alternative systems to reduce NOx emissions. 

You can figure out if your car uses AdBlue by looking for the word “blue” or the letters “SCR” on your car’s manual. For example, Fords have an EcoBlue badge, Citroen diesels are named BlueHDi, and Volkwagons are called TDI SCR. 

If you can’t see Blue or SCR in the car’s information, check your fuel filler car for an AdBlue filler. 

Still trying to figure it out? Reach out to your dealer or manufacturer for a clear answer. 

No. Petrol cars don’t use AdBlue. This formula is only designed to reduce diesel emissions. 

Nope! AdBlue is not flammable or toxic and doesn’t harm the environment. 

That being said, you should still avoid touching it as it can irritate your skin. If spilt, dilute it with water and mop or wipe it up. You should clear AdBlue as soon as possible as it can be corrosive to some metals and plastics. 

Using AdBlue is a normal part of life as a diesel driver. However, if you’re new to diesel vehicles, it can be a little confusing. Hopefully, this guide has familiarized you with what AdBlue is and how it works. Save this page so you don’t lose any information! 

Spread the cost of car repairs into interest-free instalments with 1000s of trusted repairers. 

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.

AdBlue: Why does my car need it? 

If you're considering buying a car, one of the first considerations is your budget and how you'll pay for it. Should you buy a car with cash or take out car finance? And how can you 

Today, we're looking at two main types of car finance: hire purchase and PCP. 

We'll cover the PCP finance pros and cons, benefits and drawbacks of hire purchase, and how to make the decision. 

What is PCP (Personal Contract Purchase) car finance? 

PCP finances plots the car's value into monthly payments. At the end, you can keep, trade, or return it.

The monthly payments and deposit amount don’t pay off the car, though. Instead, they cover the predicted depreciation over the contract length. 

PCP can be settled with a lump sum (balloon payment) to own the car outright. Alternatively, if you’re not interested in keeping or upgrading the vehicle, you can simply return it and walk away at the end of the term.

Typically, PCP finance lasts for three to four years. But this may vary depending on your personal contract. 

Is getting a car on finance a good idea for you? Here are some of the pros and cons of PCP finance: 

PCP finance is a good option if you want to drive a new car every few years and can afford the monthly payments and deposit. 

It's important to understand the risks and terms before signing the agreement.

Hire purchase is the most straightforward way to finance a car. 

It requires you to make an initial deposit to become the ‘registered keeper’ of the car. Once complete, you make monthly payments towards the value of the vehicle. When these are finished, the finance company gives you outright ownership of the car. 

Hire purchase contracts typically range from two to five years. Is Hire Purchase a good idea? Keep reading to find out. 

Here are some of the pros and cons of Hire Purchase finance.

A Hire Purchase can be a good option if you want to own the car outright and can afford the higher upfront costs and monthly payments.

Be aware of risks like depreciation and fully understand the terms before signing.

Key differences between PCP and hire purchase

Before you make your decision, take a look at the main differences between PCP and hire purchases. 

PCP might seem cheaper at first thanks to its lower monthly payments, but it accumulates more interest than a hire purchase. Also, you may need to make a final balloon payment or cover wear and tear fees.

Hire purchase has higher monthly payments, but you own the car at the end and don’t encounter as many extra costs.

PCP vs hire purchase – which is best for you?

PCP offers flexible end-of-contract options and lower monthly payments, making it ideal if you don't want to own the car. 

With Hire Purchase, you pay a deposit and divide the remaining cost into higher monthly payments over up to five years. While you pay less interest, you own the car outright after the final payment, which is not as large as a PCP balloon payment.

Cost differences between Hire Purchase and PCP

The best way to see the cost difference between Hire Purchase and PCP is with a hypothetical situation. For example, let’s look at a £40,000 car with a 0% interest deal (possibly with PCP but not always with Hire Purchase). 

With a £10,000 deposit, and when the contract ends, the optional GMFV (Guaranteed Minimum Future Value) payment the PCP deal includes is £10,000.

This means you’ll have to pay off £30,000 in the Hire Purchase deal but only £20,000 in the PCP deal. For PCP, this is £555.55 a month or £833.33 with Hire Purchase.

But remember, at the end of the Hire Purchase deal, you own the car — but in the PCP, you won’t unless you pay the GMFV payment.

 To leave your car finance deal early, you have to have paid over 50% of the loan agreement off (including fees and interest). 

Ending your contract early is rarely advantageous unless you desperately need to.

You can also use a personal bank loan to finance a car.

Your ability to use a personal loan for a car depends on your credit history and the vehicle's cost. Consider fees and interest, as even 0% offers have expiration dates.

Car finance has pros and cons, and it will come down to your personal situation.

Buying a car on finance – what are the basic steps?

Ready to move forward? Here are the basic steps you can take to buy a car on finance.

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