Alastair Shephard

Content Writer

Alastair Shephard | Author

Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

Joseph Law | Author

With the cold winter months in full force, the slippery surfaces can be an absolute nightmare for some drivers. There’s no denying that heavy rain can make it much harder to navigate the road, yet some drivers are forced to go out in difficult conditions due to work or other commitments. To make sure that you can stay safe at all times, we’ve outlined our eight most practical tips for driving in heavy rain. 

1. Leave the house as prepared as possible 

If you know you might face more risky conditions on the road, you can do most of your preparation before leaving the house. 

The most important step is to ensure that your windscreen wiper blades, both front and rear, are functioning and operational. 

You should also check how much fuel you have, as driving at a slower speed, as you might do in the rain, increases fuel consumption. 

Lastly, use a 20p coin to check that your tyres are of the legal tyre tread depth, as a lack of grip is the absolute last thing you want while driving in rain. 

2. Fill up with fuel if you’re embarking on a longer journey 

If you’re going on a journey that’s longer than a trip to the shops or work, you should consider filling up with fuel before setting off. Rain is notorious for increasing traffic, and getting stuck in traffic is known to increase your vehicle’s fuel consumption. With your heater, lights and wipers all likely to be in full use for the entire journey, your fuel economy will be reduced much more than usual. 

3. How much slower should you drive in the rain 

As a rule of thumb, aim to leave about twice as much space in the rain – four chevrons apart on the motorway, for instance. 

Everyone knows to reduce your speed and leave more space between yourself and the car in front when it’s raining outside, but driving too slow can also be very dangerous when visibility is limited. 

If you lose control of the car and start to aquaplane, it’s a natural response to immediately brake or overcorrect the steering. However, it might be one of the worst things you can do. 

5. Stay on top of your visibility at all times 

You might want to put on an extra layer or two when getting dressed, as the best way to prevent mist on your windows is to switch on your air conditioning. Additionally, use your headlights when necessary and be aware of any large vehicles such as buses and lorries, as they will create large amounts of spray. 

6. If you break down, keep your bonnet closed 

While you might want to investigate the issue yourself, opening up your engine in torrential rain can cause significant damage to your electrical system. Instead, wait for assistance to arrive and allow them to judge the situation. With any luck, the rain will have calmed down by then. 

7. Use a low gear and high revs to get through any unavoidable puddles 

If faced with a large puddle that you can’t avoid on your drive, the best way to get through it is by keeping your car in lower gear while revving the engine. 

What does that actually look like? Let us explain: 

Exact advice varies by the size of the puddle, but driving in second gear is usually a safe bet. 

By doing so, you’ll be able to maintain the momentum of your vehicle and create a bow wave in the water to avoid getting bogged down. 

Once you’ve cleared the puddle, lightly apply the brakes in order to generate heat in the tyres and evaporate any remaining moisture. 

8. Be considerate to others using the roads 

If you’ve ever been unfortunate enough to get splashed by a vehicle driving through a large puddle while walking on the pavement, you know exactly how unpleasant it is. As part of staying alert to your surroundings while driving in heavy rain, try to also be considerate to others using the roads. This can include driving slowly through puddles near pedestrian areas, being patient with any cyclists who are also facing the adverse conditions and giving other drivers plenty of space on the road.

How To Drive In Heavy Rain Safely

Typically, a gearbox replacement costs between £500 and £2,800.

The gearbox is one of the most important parts of any vehicle, transferring power from the engine to the wheels. Many cars use a simple 5 or 6-speed manual gearbox, while newer or luxury models often have automatic gearboxes with up to 8 gears. 

But how much does it cost to replace a gearbox, and does the price vary between manual and automatic? Keep reading to find out.

How much does a manual gearbox replacement cost?

Replacement manual gearboxes typically cost between £500 and £2,800, depending on the car.

Family cars, city cars, and hatchbacks with engines up to 2.0L usually cost around £200 to £3,000. Whereas, luxury, sports, and performance cars with larger engines can range from £6,000 to £7,000. 

Because gearboxes need precision and quality materials to efficiently transfer engine power, they can be expensive to produce, repair, and replace. 

 can help you split the costs into interest-free repayments.

Manual gearbox replacement costs by manufacturer

Here’s a breakdown of common brands and their lowest gearbox repair costs, without any labour costs:

Alongside manufacturers, gearbox replacement costs vary depending on the type of vehicle. Small cars and vans have very different parts!

The table below provides estimated price ranges for manual gearboxes, including labour, to give you a clear idea of what to expect.

How much does an automatic gearbox replacement cost?

The average cost to replace an automatic gearbox ranges from £600 to £2,300. 

Traditional 5 or 6-speed automatic replacements cost between £600 and £1,200, while twin clutch or DSG gearboxes range from £1,100 to £2,300. 

Whilst automatic gearboxes often involve fewer components in the car, they can be much more complicated and difficult to work on than their manual counterparts. 

Gearbox labour costs average around £400 to £600.

This is because it would take roughly 8 to 10 hours to remove the damaged gearbox, repair it, and reinstall it. Mechanics' cost, on average, £40-60 per hour in the UK. 

Gearbox replacement cost and parts availability 

Successful gearbox repairs depend on having the right components. You can’t put any old gearbox in your car!

Part availability varies, so vehicles with easily accessible components experience faster, smoother repairs with minimal downtime. In contrast, unique or luxury car gearboxes can take longer to fix, as replacement parts are harder to source.

A gearbox should last the engine’s lifetime, typically over 100,000 miles.

Rare or expensive cars may need more frequent replacements. However, poor use by previous owners is the main cause of gearbox problems, which can reduce the overall life of the car.

Gearbox repairs suit minor problems, but complete replacements are best for major damage.

Gearbox repairs in the UK usually cost between £300 and £1,200 and fix specific issues, offering a cheaper but sometimes temporary solution.

Replacements range from £600 to over £3,000, depending on the vehicle and gearbox type, offering a more reliable and long-term solution.

Because gearboxes are such complicated parts, there are a few different failure modes. Here’s a breakdown of typical gearbox repair costs: 

Popping out of gear repairs usually cost between £350 and £600 and involve removing the gearbox to replace worn parts, often for all gears.

This issue, often caused by a worn synchromesh or a poorly adjusted gear linkage, causes the gears to slip out while driving. Synchromesh helps gears mesh smoothly, but when worn, the gear stick can jump out of gear. 

If you can select a gear but the car doesn’t move, a broken or stripped gear cog inside the gearbox is likely the cause, often accompanied by grinding noises.

Repair costs range from £400 to £700 and require removing the gearbox to replace the damaged gear, often due to defects or harsh use.

When no gears can be selected, the problem is usually with the gear selector linkage, which connects the gear stick to the gearbox. 

Repairs generally cost between £100 and £300 and often involve replacing or repairing accessible parts, such as cables or joints. Sometimes a loose clip or bolt is the simple fix.

Noises can come from worn shaft bearings, gears, or low gearbox oil. 

Repairing these issues typically costs between £100 and £600 and may require reconditioning of the gearbox. Checking and topping up gearbox oil early can prevent costly damage.

Yes, many broken gearboxes can be repaired, but it’s not always straightforward. 

Repairs depend on the specific issue and time available, and most garages won’t fix internal gearbox problems. Specialists can handle these repairs, but it takes time and leaves your car undrivable.

For rare or performance cars, repairing may be more cost-effective than replacing the entire gearbox.

A gearbox converts the engine’s torque to usable power for all speeds, like a bicycle but more complex. 

The selector fork, linked to the gear stick, moves gears to change speed. Power flows from the clutch to the input shaft. When the clutch is pressed, the input shaft stops, allowing gear changes without grinding. 

Releasing the clutch spins the input shaft, transmitting power through the lay shaft to the output shaft and wheels at the chosen gear.

There’s no one easy answer if your gearbox has gone kaput. 

Gearboxes can fail when drivers neglect maintenance, overheat the transmission, fail to change the fluid, or drive aggressively. They can also just ‘go bad’ after years of use. 

If you’re worried about your gearbox’s life span, note that worn bearings and low lubrication can cause the part to fail sooner.

Like most things, automotive parts need servicing, maintenance, and mechanical care. If a gearbox is run without oil, it will wear much faster than if used properly.

Things like towing heavy loads or racing will shorten the lifespan of your gearbox, so be wary of a car with a towbar (unless you need it) and clues of an aggressive owner.

How do I know if my gearbox needs replacing?

If your gearbox makes odd noises or pops out of gear, it may need replacing.

Book a service to diagnose the issue, as only an internal check can confirm this. Vague gear selection might mean a simple linkage fix, but lost drive or bad noises often signal the need for a new gearbox.

Can you repair your gearbox without a mechanic?

Only if you have experience working on vehicles. If you’re unsure, it’s always best to leave the gearbox DIY to qualified mechanics.

Experienced enough to give gearbox removal a go? Replacing a gearbox demands caution and the right tools. If you want to attempt it yourself, follow these key steps:

Again, it’s critical that you only work on the gearbox if you have proficient mechanical experience. Don’t tamper with your car, as you could cause further damage or injure yourself.

Otherwise, seek out a professional who can handle removal safely and prevent extra damage.

Knowing how to protect your gearbox saves you from problems and big costs.

Follow these tips and you should be able to sleep easily knowing you are caring for your gearbox. 

Keep your gearbox well-maintained by following the manufacturer’s service schedule and using the correct oil.

Even if some gearboxes are labelled “sealed for life,” experts recommend regular oil changes to prevent long-term damage.

Avoid harsh driving habits, such as aggressive gear changes or high-acceleration launches, which can strain the gearbox.

Always use the clutch to change gears to protect internal components.

Never try to force the gearstick into reverse or first gear. 

If it’s stiff, release the clutch fully and shift back to neutral before trying again to help the gears mesh smoothly.

If possible, drive your car to a safe spot and call for recovery. If you have lost just one gear, you might be able to drive a short distance using the other gears.

However, if your gearbox makes noise in every gear, stop driving immediately to avoid worsening the damage and increasing repair costs.

How long does it take to replace a gearbox?

Replacing a gearbox in the UK typically takes between 6 and 12 hours, depending on the car’s make and model.

As with any repairs, complex or performance vehicles may require more time. Additional delays can occur if parts need to be ordered or if specialists are involved.

In short, expect the process to span one to two full working days.

What’s more expensive, a clutch or a gearbox replacement?

A gearbox replacement is generally more expensive than a clutch replacement in the UK.

Clutch repairs usually cost between £300 and £600, while gearbox replacements can range from £600 to over £2,000, depending on the car.

Gearboxes are more complex and costly to repair or replace than clutches, which are simpler components.

The best way to prevent a gearbox replacement is through proper care. Regular preventative maintenance keeps your gearbox running smoothly and helps prevent future costs. 

Gearbox Replacement Cost UK: How Much Should You Pay in 2026?

How Much Does It Cost To Replace a Gearbox?

¿Cuánto cuesta cambiar una caja de cambios?

Wie viel kostet der Austausch eines Getriebes?

The average cost of changing brake fluid in the UK is £50. 

Brake fluid might not be visible, but like pads and discs, it wears down over time and loses effectiveness. If neglected, it can lead to costly repairs and serious safety risks.

In this article, we’ll cover why changing your brake fluid is essential, how often it should be done, and what you can expect to pay.

How much does it cost to change brake fluid?

UK car brake fluid costs are usually around £50, but these change costs vary by garage and location, so it’s worth shopping around. The general range goes from £40 to £90. 

Getting your brakes checked at the same time usually won’t add much to the cost, and it’s always worth doing. If needed, you can use 

Brake fluid change costs also vary by model. Here are some typical price ranges.

Note that these price approximations are subject to change depending on your provider and individual vehicle. 

Brake fluid change costs by location in the UK

Brake fluid change costs can vary depending on where you live in the UK. 

Larger cities and areas with higher living costs tend to charge more, while smaller towns may offer more competitive prices. 

Here’s a snapshot of typical price ranges by location to help you budget.

Brake fluid is a hydraulic fluid that transmits force from the master cylinder when you press the brake pedal. It travels through pipes to cylinders at each wheel, applying pressure to the brakes.

The basic braking system has remained largely unchanged for many years, except for additions such as ABS.

Brake fluid deteriorates over time and can become contaminated with rust, dirt, and debris. This reduces its effectiveness in transmitting force to the brakes.

Also, if air enters the system, it absorbs braking force instead of slowing the car, making your vehicle unsafe.

Is a brake fluid change included in vehicle servicing? 

No, brake fluid changes aren’t always included in a car service. 

That’s why it's so important to remember to change your brake fluid every two years or so. This helps you prevent brake failure and keeps your car road safe. 

How long does a brake fluid change take? 

Usually, a mechanic will take 30 to 60 minutes to change your brake fluid. However, your appointment may last longer if you add in extra services or checks. 

Different car models require specific types of brake fluid, but don’t worry, most modern cars have a label on the brake fluid reservoir cap indicating the correct type. 

Reputable garages keep a range of brake fluids in stock to ensure they can service your vehicle properly.

How often does brake fluid need to be changed? 

You should change your brake fluid about every two years. 

It’s important to check the brake fluid regularly during your monthly fluid level inspections, paying attention not just to the level but also to its condition.

You will want to check that your fluid is not: 

What happens if you don’t change your brake fluid?

If you don’t change your brake fluid, braking performance can suffer and become unsafe.

Over time, the fluid can absorb moisture and debris, which makes it degrade faster. When brakes get hot, this moisture can cause the fluid to boil prematurely, leading to dangerous effects such as brake fade during extended braking.

Unless you are a professional, it is recommended that you do not change your brake fluid yourself.

This task involves working on safety-critical components and lifting the car, which can be hazardous without the proper tools and experience. Changing brake fluid can take several hours and is best left to qualified mechanics or garages.

Keeping your brakes in good shape is essential, and brake fluid changes won’t break the bank. Always compare quotes and ask for a brake check while you’re at it—saving time and money in one go.

Don’t let a pesky brake fluid change disrupt your budget. 

 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 It Cost To Change Brake Fluid in the UK?

The most predominant automotive trend of the last ten years is evident. Motorists prefer taller, larger, 4-wheel drive-style vehicles over hatchbacks and estates. The numbers don’t lie! In 2021, SUVs made up nearly 

of the total car sales across Europe. Now that’s impressive. 

Although the benefits of both Crossovers and SUVs may be many, are there as many deciding factors between the two? What is the difference between crossovers vs SUVs? Today, we’re going to find out. 

In this article, we’ll explain what each is, how, and if they differ. As well as helping you decide if a crossover or an SUV is best for your particular needs. Scroll down to find out more. 

 and refers to a car that mixes road-going passenger cars with offroad vehicles. 

 was based on a pickup truck, first released for sale in 1963 by the famous American automaker Jeep. It soon became a favourite of families needing extra passenger and luggage space. 

The original Jeep Wagoneer had a critical design feature that some people still consider the defining feature of an SUV - a body-on-frame vehicle. It had a sturdy steel ladder chassis and a car body bolted on top. This made it easy to make passenger cars that share pickup truck components. 

Since then, car designers worldwide have realised many motorists enjoy the higher driving position, off-road capability, and feel of safety that a large, high-up vehicle affords.

First, it was mainly companies that also produced utility vehicles made SUVs, such as Ford, Land Rover, Toyota and others. Now, after the definition of what makes an SUV has changed slightly, almost every manufacturer includes one in their lineup. 

Crossovers are technically small SUVs, larger than traditional estate or hatchback cars. 

These are a more recently introduced body type, and the crossover evolved to be a higher vehicle that didn’t have the large engine or physical bulk of a full-size SUV. 

Instead of a ladder chassis, they are typically built using the same engineering architecture as their car cousins. For instance, the

 sold in 2022, the Nissan Qashqai, is built on the platform used for the Renault Megane. 

Modern cars have used this ‘Unibody’ design, where the body also forms the chassis, for a long time, but it is trendy in Europe as it tends to allow the cars to be more compact. As well as using a unibody design, they are often only equipped with front-wheel drive. 

What is the difference between a crossover and an SUV? 

We’ve explored what defines each type of vehicle, but what matters is the difference between them, which will allow you to make an informed decision. 

In some ways, the crossover is the baby brother to the SUV. They have many of the same positive characteristics, but there are some crucial differences: 

Is there a grey area between crossovers and SUVs?

No, there isn’t a grey area between crossovers and SUVs. Though similar, there are distinct differences between the two types of vehicles, as noted above. 

Yes, SUVs are typically more powerful than crossovers. 

Because SUVs use utility vehicle components as a base, they are often available with the same range of engines. These are generally larger diesel engines that are made for towing heavy loads. 

Due to them being based on smaller passenger vehicles, Crossovers typically have smaller engines. This does, however, mean they are more fuel-efficient. 

Typically, no. Because crossovers are heavily based on car chassis and designs, they often only incorporate front-wheel drive. All or four-wheel drive requires adding components such as gearboxes and changes to the car's chassis. 

Conversely, SUVs are often built on utility vehicle platforms, such as pickup trucks or 4x4 vehicles. This means they often have the infrastructure for native 4-wheel drive. 

This doesn’t mean that all SUVs have 4WD, though. Many are offered in 2WD for

 better value SUVS with good fuel economy. 

SUVs usually cost more than crossovers due to their more complex construction and the fact there’s less demand. 

Vehicles such as the Range Rover SV and Toyota Hilux are larger and more powerful than many other vehicles on the market but are aimed towards the luxury segment, again increasing the price tag. 

Even after the purchase, SUVs will cost more money to run. Their larger engines are less efficient and cost more to tax than a typical crossover. They are also typically more expensive to insure. If you're looking for a more affordable SUV, then be sure to check out our guide to the 

One crucial factor that leads people to choose SUVs and other larger cars is the perceived safety benefits. While SUVs are 

than smaller cars, are SUVs notably safer than crossovers? 

A benefit of crossovers is their lighter weight, which means they have less momentum to stop when braking, and they have better cornering performance for avoiding obstacles. 

The statistics show that you’re more likely to survive a crash the larger the vehicle. This is a testament to the high build quality and ability to incorporate better and more numerous safety features into larger vehicles. 

The question of whether SUVs or crossovers are safer is a difficult one to answer. In theory, Crossovers should be less safe due to their

yet they are less likely to be involved in an accident in the first place. 

There are three basic categories of SUVs: 

Get the lowdown on the benefits and drawbacks of SUVs vs crossovers below. 

Now we’ve highlighted the differences, which one is the best? Well, this question, like many car-related decisions, depends on your personal circumstances and preferences. 

If you need a comfortable and luxurious car that can carry 5-7 people and tackle some serious off-road challenges, you need an SUV. 

A crossover could be perfect for you if you’re unlikely to ever need a 4-wheel-drive but would benefit from the higher driving position and large overall size compared to a hatchback. As we’ve discussed, they are also more budget-friendly to buy and use. 

With the vast array of models on offer, choosing the right car for you can be tricky. But we’ve done the research for you. Find some of the best-rated cars currently on sale below. 

Formerly seen as a cheap car brand, their recent offerings have improved reliability, comfort and style. The latest Kia Sportage is available in petrol, diesel and hybrid variants. 

If you have a larger family, they are available with seven seats. Kia’s 7-year warranty should also give some peace of mind with the cost of repairs. 

Honda has a well-deserved name in reliability and engineering excellence. The CR-V has been one of the best-selling crossovers since its inception. 

Both the diesel and petrol engines have great reviews, but the Hybrid is the one Honda is most proud of. Whilst some may find the interior a bit busy, the outside is modern and stylish, with moulded panels giving it an excellent road presence. 

The new generation of Mazda vehicles have a very striking appearance, and the CX-5 is no exception. It features high-tech LED headlights as standard, with sleek lines that somewhat downplay the large size. Perfect for those wanting a larger vehicle without the stigma. 

Want a crossover that still feels like a sports car? Well, add the Porsche Macan to your radar. This new compact luxury SUV crossover has a 261-hp turbocharged 2.0-litre inline-four engine to provide a sleek driving feel. Perfect for tackling twisty roads with ease. 

Finally, the Hyundai Palisade is an attractive crossover you need to consider. With family buyers in mind, this crossover has three rows of seating, upmarket finishings, and convenience features. Pair this with a 3.9-litre V-6, and you have an impressive vehicle.

In its various forms, the quintessential British SUV, the Range Rover, has always focussed on luxury. The flagship Range Rover has, up until recently, even used a body-on-frame design, just as the original SUVs did. 

While not topping the charts for reliability in past years, Jaguar Land Rover has improved its quality control systems and produces more high-quality vehicles. 

The range-topping Range Rover SVR features a 5.0 litre supercharged V8 and can reach 60 mph in 4.3 seconds, faster than many sports cars. 

Whilst the Hilux offered by Toyota in the UK isn't the biggest SUV they make - it's actually known as the Toyota Prado outside of the UK and Europe - it can certainly be considered a large SUV here in Britain at over 4.5m long and nearly 2m wide. 

Toyota is well-known for its reliability, and the new Land Cruiser should not disappoint with its high-tech but reliable 2.8L diesel engine. Its towing capacity is one of the best in its class at 3,000kg. 

It also comes equipped with all the modern off-road systems, such as hill descent and electronic traction control to prevent wheel slip. Its large ground clearance also aids it in crossing land that is not suitable for most other SUVs. 

Whilst not following the traditional mantra of SUVs, the Touareg has always been of the unibody design. This isn't to say it can't hold its own across rough terrain. It just fits in better in the city. 

With their recent trend towards luxury, the latest Volkswagen comes with all modern features such as adaptive cruise control, a sumptuous leather interior and park and lane assist. 

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