Annabelle Clarke

PR Manager

Annabelle Clarke | Author

Eduardo Rodrigues

Content Writer

Claudia Tuñón

Isobel Coughlan

Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

Alastair Shephard

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?

SEAT Spain has announced they are launching Bumper across their network. Franchisees will be offering both PayLater, Bumper’s interest-free monthly payment option, and PayNow, a one-off payment option customers can use to pay remotely from their own devices. 

Initial uptake has sky-rocketed with 182 sites signed up and 228 vehicles repaired through the Bumper platform, an uptake in part due to the promotion through SEAT’s website and social media channels. 

Easing car repairs amid the cost-of-living crisis 

Bumper’s Buy Now Pay Later allows drivers to better manage their finances by easing the burden of car repairs into their monthly outgoings. This a trend we’ve already seen take off across the retail sector with the likes of Klarna. 

Nick Squire, Bumper’s International Sales manager, responsible for Bumper’s roll-out across European markets, commented, “We’ve seen fantastic early adoption of Buy Now Pay Later here in Spain, with sites already seeing a reduction in discount levels in favour of offering Bumper’s monthly payment option. 

“Moreover, SEAT’s quick roll-out has helped to increase traction with dealerships by placing considerable focus on driving our BNPL offering via their Facebook and website. Getting the product in front of dealerships is key to the early stages of our move into Spain and SEAT has proved to be essential in making that happen.” 

SEAT Spain Launch Interest-Free Monthly Payments for Car Repairs with Bumper 

SEAT España y BUMPER lanzan pagos en cuotas sin intereses para reparaciones de automóviles 

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. 

When it comes to full-size SUVs, you can’t beat the Chevrolet Tahoe. With plenty of power, intelligent Super Cruise driver technology, and up to 122.9 cu ft of cargo space, there’s lots to enjoy about this vehicle. 

Three engine options are available, and the entry-level option is a 355-hp V-8. However, you can level up to a 420-hp V-8. Simply divine. 

Though it’s been around for two decades, the Cadillac Escalade still reigns supreme on the SUV scene. The current rendition offers a luxury experience with a high-tech OLED interior, a 6.2-liter V-8 engine, a 36-speaker audio system, and three rows of seating. 

When browsing crossovers and SUVs, remember that the main difference is the frame on which the vehicle rests. If it’s based on a commercial truck, it’s an SUR. If it’s based on a car, it’s a crossover. Both have their benefits, but it ultimately depends on what you’re looking for. 

Hopefully, this guide has helped you move forward in your car-purchasing process. So, what will it be? Whatever you choose, Bumper is here to help you spread the cost of serving, MOTs, repairs, and parts. 

Get started today. Enter your vehicle registration and postcode on our website to begin.

Crossover Vs SUV: Which is Better? 

Hybrid battery replacement costs sit around £2,000+ for UK drivers. Sales of these vehicles have jumped in the last few years, making them one of the fastest-growing car choices. But battery technology remains their biggest limitation. 

So, how long do hybrid batteries last, and what does it cost to replace them in the UK? 

This blog breaks down the facts and answers to the key question: Is replacing a hybrid battery worth it?

How much does a hybrid battery replacement cost?

In the UK, replacing a hybrid battery typically costs £2,000 or more, depending on the car’s make, model, and age.

While smaller and cheaper than full EV batteries, hybrid batteries are still expensive to replace. They also require specialist tools and expertise due to their high voltage, making DIY replacement dangerous. 

Replacing a hybrid battery is usually worth it if the rest of the car is in good shape. 

If you’re unsure, compare the cost of a new battery with replacing the car entirely. You should also bear in mind that second-hand hybrids may come with hidden issues. 

High mileage or multiple repair needs could tip the balance, but because hybrids are generally expensive to buy, investing in a new battery often makes sense. And if the upfront cost is a concern, you can spread the expense with 

. This separates the cost into interest-free monthly payments.

Hybrid battery replacement costs by make and model

Replacing a hybrid battery can be costly, but prices vary depending on the make and model. 

Toyotas are generally the cheapest hybrids to replace batteries for, but you can use the table below to compare typical costs in the UK.

Let’s take a closer look at popular models and the reasons behind the hybrid battery replacement costs. 

Replacing a Toyota hybrid battery varies by model and age. 

On the Prius, costs range from £1,500–£4,000 for the second generation and £2,500–£6,000 for the third. Other models like the Auris, Yaris, Corolla, and RAV4 are typically more expensive (£3,000–£9,000). 

The Prius, popularised over 22 years with 86,000+ UK sales, is one of the cheapest hybrids to replace, thanks to parts availability and multiple service options. 

Older models are easier and cheaper to repair, while newer ones can be costlier due to limited service access and more complex technology.

Replacing a Lexus hybrid battery typically costs anywhere from £2,200 to £6,000. 

While Lexus shares some parts with other luxury brands, hybrid batteries are mostly car-specific, so Toyota batteries don’t fit directly. Despite this, there’s a strong network of independent and specialist services offering replacements. 

Lexus also provides a 15-year warranty if serviced at a dealership, which can cover costly hybrid system parts, making maintenance more predictable and potentially cheaper.

Mercedes hybrid battery replacement cost 

At the higher end, replacing a Mercedes hybrid battery typically costs £7,000–£15,000. 

Mercedes’ luxury hybrid models combine complex electrical systems with high-priced parts, making replacements significantly more expensive than most other brands. 

Labour costs at Mercedes dealerships are also among the highest, adding to the overall cost of battery replacement.

A hybrid battery typically lasts 100,000–200,000 miles with proper care. 

Unlike fully electric vehicles, the battery shares the load with the petrol or diesel engine, reducing strain. The car’s computer manages power use, and the engine often recharges the battery. 

Similar to a smartphone, keeping the battery topped up, avoiding full drains, and charging gradually helps extend its life.

Breakdown of hybrid battery replacement costs 

If you’re searching for how much does it cost to replace a hybrid battery, you might also be interested in why they’re so expensive. 

Here’s a quick rundown of what’s included in a battery replacement job. 

It’s very uncommon for a battery to die without any signs, so learn the precursors below and keep them in mind. 

Batteries tend to slowly degrade over time. Keep an eye on your car’s fuel efficiency and remember the signs of hybrid battery failure to stay ahead of repairs. 

Most hybrids include an 8-year/100,000-mile battery warranty, with some offering 10 years. Always check your warranty and insurance before booking a garage appointment, or you may not get the best deal.

Most hybrid cars have two batteries: a standard 12-volt battery to power electronics and start the engine, and a high-voltage hybrid battery that stores energy for the electric motor and improves fuel efficiency. 

Always check your car’s specifications or consult a professional garage to avoid booking the wrong service.

Can you drive a hybrid car with a dead battery?

No, you shouldn’t drive a hybrid with a dead battery. 

If the high-voltage hybrid battery is dead, the car may still start using the petrol/diesel engine in some models, but the electric motor won’t function, fuel efficiency drops, and some hybrids won’t operate at all.

Always have it checked or replaced by a professional to avoid damage and ensure your car remains safe to drive.

How to check the battery health of a hybrid car?

To check a hybrid car’s battery health, start with the dashboard indicators and warning lights. Many hybrids provide a battery status display.

Familiarise yourself with the signs of a dead hybrid battery (listed above on this page), as these can help you notice any symptoms before the battery breaks.

You can also have a professional garage run a diagnostic using specialised tools, which measures voltage and capacity to ensure the battery is in good condition.

Jump-starting a hybrid’s standard 12-volt battery is usually possible, but the high-voltage hybrid battery cannot be jump-started. Attempting to do so is dangerous and can damage the car. 

Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and, if unsure, have a professional garage handle any hybrid battery issues safely. Don’t tamper with what you don’t understand!

Hybrid cars offer a fantastic driving experience, and you shouldn’t be put off buying one due to potential battery failure. 

However, it’s important to understand the potential costs and the general process of hybrid battery replacement cost before buying or replacing your car’s battery. Hopefully, this blog has pointed you in the right direction.

Battery replacement costs can be expensive. But you don’t have to pay the bill in one go. 

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

Hybrid Battery Replacement Cost Guide

¿Cuánto cuesta reemplazar una batería híbrida?

Wie viel kostet der Austausch einer Hybrid-Batterie? 

As the year comes to a close, many motorists are preparing to make the journey to visit friends and family for the Christmas period. Making the necessary vehicle inspections and preparations before leaving, whether it's a short trip or a lengthy journey, may spare you a lot of worry, time, and money. We’ve put together a list of tips for safe holiday driving. 

Anytime you go a long distance, you should always perform routine inspections on your car. Waiting for the next MOT or service is a typical error and can cause

, which is the last thing you want on your trip home for Christmas! The most crucial inspections to perform before driving are checking your tyres' pressure, tread depth, screen wash levels, engine oil levels, and coolant levels. 

Having an emergency pack ready may make a big difference if you get stuck on a lengthy journey. Before leaving your home, make sure to pack your car with the emergency supplies you might need if you’re left waiting at the side of the road. We recommend taking: 

3. Stay away from your car after drinking 

Although it may seem obvious, it's crucial to avoid getting behind the wheel of your car after a drink. Drink-driving puts you and others around you in danger and might result in criminal penalties if you’re stopped by the police. 

You might believe that it’s OK to sit or even sleep in their car after drinking, but even this is prohibited and may result in legal action. So if you want to drink to celebrate the holiday season, leave your car keys at home. 

As we've seen recently, the UK's temperatures have dropped dramatically, which may cause ice and snow to form on the roads. Before starting your journey, be sure to check the wear on your tyres. You should also stock up on de-icer and an ice scraper to ensure that you can remove any ice from your windscreen. 

Giving yourself plenty of time to get home for Christmas is vital. Roads busy with drivers off to see their loved ones cause more traffic than usual on the highways. Giving yourself more time allows for more frequent stops to rest. If possible, begin your journey before Friday, December 23, when holiday traffic will start to increase. 

Most likely, your car is packed with thoughtful gifts as well as your personal belongings. Store them in the boot or behind a cover on the rear seats to keep them hidden. Additionally, if you plan to stop somewhere overnight, be sure to take your valuables out of the car and keep them with you inside. 

6 top tips for driving at Christmas 

We're pleased to announce the Dealership of the Month for November 2022 is Mercedes-Benz of Exeter. Bumper Business Development Consultant, Marc Durrant, met the team on-site to deliver their award. 

The Exeter team had an impressive month using both PayLater, interest-free monthly payments available on repairs, and PayNow, a one-off secure link customers can use to pay remotely, to improve customer satisfaction. 

This improvement in customer satisfaction is demonstrated in their Trustpilot reviews. One commented, “Never having heard of Bumper I was surprised at the speed at which everything was arranged. Everything was done very efficiently and promptly.” 

Another said, “This was very helpful; I had a huge bill, was great to know I didn’t have to pay straight away and it’s interest-free!” 

Since joining Bumper’s network in April 2022, the site quickly implemented Bumper into their aftersales process helping customers drive away happier and safer. 

Congratulations to the team at Mercedes-Benz of Exeter! 

Dealership of the Month November 2022: Mercedes-Benz of Exeter 

Oil is essential in any engine, as it lubricates to prevent wear and heat. Unlike older cars, today’s vehicles require a specific type of oil. So, modern drivers must be on top of the kind of oil needed. 

Ensuring your car has the correct oil isn’t impossible, though! “What oil should I use for my car?” you’re in the right place. Today, we’re covering the main types of oil and their benefits to help you decide which is best for you. Scroll down to become an oil expert in minutes. 

Modern cars require different oil types, which will be listed in your vehicle handbook. However, you can also reach out to the dealer or a garage to find out which is needed for your car. 

Factors that affect the type of oil you need include: 

When in doubt, contact your mechanic or consult your vehicle handbook. You must double-check which oil is needed before putting any old type of oil in, as this may damage your engine. 

Engine oils come in different grades, specifications, and viscosities. But more about this further on in the blog! 

You should regularly check your engine oil level to keep your engine healthy and to ensure your car is road-safe. 

Neglecting your engine oil levels might mean you miss a drop in oil levels. When your oil level drops, your engine may be damaged, especially if you have a modern car with a smaller sump. Oil may spend less time cooling down in the sump, so the hotter oil will wear out your engine. 

You should check your car’s engine every few weeks or before long journeys. It’s also important to check your engine oil if the dashboard warning light appears. 

Engine oil lubricates the moving parts of your car. Since the engine produces lots of heat, oil lubrication allows all parts to move without dangerous friction. Using the wrong or insufficient oil can lead to severe damage and an unsafe car. 

But that’s not all that oil does! It also acts as an engine cleaner, collecting dust and dirt. This makes the engine safer and much more efficient. 

Other benefits of engine oil include a cooler engine, reduced emissions, and better fuel economy. 