close-up-of -car-on-hydraulic-lift-in-professional-auto-repair-shop

Jonathan Westwood

Chief Compliance Officer

Jonathan Westwood | Author

Annabelle Clarke

PR Manager

Annabelle Clarke | Author

Eduardo Rodrigues

Content Writer

Eduardo Rodrigues | Author

Claudia Tuñón

Claudia Tuñón | Author

Isobel Coughlan

Isobel Coughlan | Author

Joseph Law

Bumper Content Writer

Joseph Law | Author

Alastair Shephard

Alastair Shephard | Author

For most of us the biggest alterations we make to our cars are popping on a set of winter tyres for the colder weather. Whilst it’s not clear if the King takes his car to the local garage for the same reason, there are some more maverick modifications he’s made to his motors.

 birthday, this Seychelles blue Aston Martin has had some eco-friendly modifications made to it. Back in 2008, the environment-conscious then-Prince didn’t like how much fuel the vehicle guzzled so had it converted to run on cheese and wine. 

Well, not exactly cheese and wine. Bioethanol is made from surplus wine and whey, a cheese by-product; which the King says, “smells delicious when you’re driving along.” 

Whilst the King made a very serious eco-friendly decision with this Aston Martin, he can never let us forget his sense of humour. That’s why he’s placed a fake ejector seat button on the dashboard to make his passengers feel a little nervous. 

Another gift, this time from the Emir of Bahrain, the Aston Martin V8 Vantage Volante was modified to make the vehicle appear much sleeker. After complaining the car looked too “beefy” he had Aston Martin remove the boot spoiler and side skirts. Features that marked this car out as a Vantage. 

and changed the colour to “balmoral green”. We think maybe the Emir should try a voucher next time! 

The King’s preferred transport in the mid-90s was a green Aston Martin Virage Volante. Upgrades the king made to this vehicle included changing the engine from 5.2 to 6.3 litres (allowing it to reach speeds of up to 175mph), an added police radio and a second rear-view mirror so his protection officer could keep an eye on any tailing vehicles. 

But perhaps the most eccentric change was a fitted leather jar, custom-made to store sugar cubes for his ponies.

The Odd Quirks of King Charles III's Automobiles

Brake hoses are vital for your vehicle's braking system, transferring fluid from the master cylinder to the callipers, allowing your car to stop. Maintaining them is crucial, as worn hoses can reduce stopping power.

Need a replacement? Discover the average brake pipe replacement cost in the UK and read some common FAQs in Bumper’s guide.

brake pipe replacement cost in the UK £75 to £180. 

The cost can vary depending on factors like your vehicle’s make and model, location, and labour rates. 

The estimate above covers both parts and labour, but extra charges may apply if other components in the braking system need repair or replacement.

Worried about the costs? With Bumper you could benefit from 0% interest 

 and pay for car repairs in instalments in easy-to-manage monthly payments.

The average brake pipe replacement cost by car make

Here's a rough comparison of brake hose replacement costs for popular car makers in the UK. 

Keep in mind though that these figures are approximate and may vary based on factors mentioned earlier:

Your brake hose replacement cost depends on several factors, one of which is location. Below, we’ve included rough estimates for major UK areas.

Brake hoses are flexible tubes that connect the brake callipers to the metal brake lines from the master cylinder. 

They handle the pressure and heat from braking while allowing the suspension and brakes to move. 

When you press the brake pedal, brake fluid flows through the hoses to the callipers, which press the brake pads against the rotors to slow down your vehicle.

What's the difference between a brake hose and brake lines?

The main difference between a brake hose and a brake line is their flexibility and where they're used in the braking system. 

Both serve similar functions, there are some key differences between them:

There are two common types of brake hoses (pipes) used in vehicles: rubber brake hoses and stainless steel braided brake hoses.

Rubber brake hoses are a common, affordable choice for many UK drivers, as they're often factory-installed. 

However, they can wear down over time due to heat, moisture, and chemicals, leading to cracks or splits that compromise the braking system. 

Regular inspections and timely replacements are essential. Despite potential wear, rubber hoses remain a reliable option for those prioritising cost and performance, with maintenance being key to their longevity.

Stainless steel braided brake hoses are a popular upgrade for car enthusiasts due to their superior performance and durability. 

Though pricier than rubber or plastic hoses, they resist swelling under pressure, providing a more consistent brake feel. 

They're also more durable, less prone to cracking or wear, and ensure long-term reliability. 

While the initial cost is higher, the lasting benefits make them a worthwhile investment for those seeking better braking performance.

Unsure if you need a replacement? Some common symptoms of a failing brake hose include:

If you notice any of these signs, it's essential to inspect your brake hoses for damage and consider replacing them if necessary.

Delaying replacement can lead to further damage and compromise your vehicle's braking ability.

No. Driving with a damaged or broken brake hose is incredibly dangerous and puts you and other road users at risk.

If you suspect brake hose damage, it's best to play it safe and get a professional inspection right away.

Brakes are crucial for safety, and brake hoses transfer hydraulic pressure from the master cylinder to the callipers or wheel cylinders. A damaged hose can reduce stopping power and even lead to brake failure.

Watch for warning signs like soft brakes, excessive pedal travel, fluid leaks, or strange noises.

Ignoring these issues can lead to accidents and costly repairs, so maintaining brake hoses should always be a priority for drivers.

Yes, corroded brake pipes can result in MOT failure.

 They pose a significant risk to your vehicle's braking efficiency and safety on the road.

To maintain your brake pipes and avoid MOT failure:

 brake hose pipes can last between 8 to 15 years 

The average lifespan of brake pipes varies depending on factors such as driving conditions, exposure to moisture and salt, and maintenance habits.

Replacing your brake pipes offers significant benefits beyond improved braking performance. 

New pipes reduce the risk of brake failure due to corrosion or damage, keeping you safe and helping you avoid costly repairs. 

Investing in new brake pipes also gives you peace of mind, especially if you rely on your car for work or family. Proactively replacing worn-out pipes ensures reliable performance and safety, so don’t hesitate to consult a trusted garage.

No, you don’t have to replace brake hoses in pairs. However, it’s good to change them together as they’ve probably worn at the same speed. Your mechanic will likely advise this after a routine inspection.

How long do brake pipe replacements take?

brake pipe replacement to take around an hour and a half

This time can be slightly longer or shorter, depending on whether any other issues are found in the process and how long it takes to dismantle the vehicle. 

What happens in a brake pipe replacement?

Wondering why a brake pipe replacement takes 1.5 hours? Here’s what goes on while your car is being serviced.

Hopefully, we've given you some insight on common brake pipe replacement costs. There's no one cost for every car, but you can start to gauge how much your replacement will cost based on your make and location. 

Remember to consult an expert at the first sign of brake pipe problems! Maintaining your vehicle is critical to keeping yourself and other drivers safe. 

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

Look after your car and your bank balance by splitting the cost or repairs into monthly instalments, interest-free

Join the Bumper community and get access to the best care for you and your car. Choose a dependable dealership and 

split your car repair bill into monthly chunks

How Much Does a Brake Pipe Replacement Cost?

Wie viel kostet es, einen Bremsschlauch zu wechseln?

We’re delighted to announce that Lookers BMW have been named Dealership of the Month for March 2023. The win follows an exceptional month for the Stoke-based team utilising Bumper’s payment options across the site’s service and sales departments.

Having recently completed Bumper’s refresher training course in February the site saw a sharp uptick in the usage of Bumper’s PayLater payment option allowing customers to split the cost of repairs, services, accessories, and value-added products into interest-free monthly instalments.

The award was presented to the team by Bumper’s Business Development Consultant for the Midlands and South West, Islay Horton. Islay is pictured below with Lookers BMW Stoke’s Used Car Sales Transaction Manager, Antony Hine, and Sales Executive, Daniel Price.

Islay, commented, “It’s terrific to see how the team here at BMW Stoke recognise the importance of offering additional payment options to customers. Their recent refresher training has really boosted the team’s confidence in discussing multiple payment options and it’s great to see the site and customers alike now benefiting from this. 

“It’s never been more important, at a time when we’re all feeling the pinch, that we enable drivers to carry out essential maintenance and access products that better protect their vehicles and wallets in the future.”

Pictured above, are Senior Service Advisor Jordan Eldergil and Service Advisor, Molly Plant.

A big well done to all the team at Lookers BMW Stoke! 

Lookers BMW Stoke Named Dealership of the Month

In the UK, the average price to recharge your car's air conditioning is around £70.  

Air conditioning is essential for drivers, especially during the summer. It keeps you cool and improves the air quality inside your car. 

However, like any vehicle part, it requires maintenance and occasionally a recharge. This post covers air conditioning recharge costs in the UK, care tips, and the benefits of a recharge in 2026.

The average UK aircon regas costs £60-£80 but varies by car type, aircon age, and any leaks or repairs needed. 

Regular servicing and prompt repairs help keep costs down, and you can use 

to take the strain off your bank balance. 

Aircon repair cost breakdown by refrigerant type

The refrigerant is the chemical that cools the air in your car’s air conditioning system. 

Different refrigerants have varying environmental impacts, availability, and handling requirements, which affect the cost of recharging your air conditioner. 

Newer refrigerants, such as R1234yf, are more eco-friendly but typically cost more than the older R134a. Here’s a quick look at the costs in 2026:

Average air-con recharge costs by car make

Your car’s make can influence the average cost of an air-con regas. Below are estimated prices for popular car brands. 

Keep in mind these are averages and actual costs may vary.

Air-con recharge prices can also vary depending on where you live. Cities often have higher costs compared to smaller towns due to differences in living expenses and garage rates.

The prices below are 2026 estimates and may vary depending on the garage and specific vehicle requirements.

How long does it take to do an air-con regas?

An air conditioning recharge usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. Time may vary depending on your car, the age of the unit, and if any leaks or repairs are needed before recharging.

How do you know if your car air-con needs regassing?

There are a few signs to watch out for if you think your air-con unit might need recharging.

If you're experiencing any of these symptoms then it might be time to take your car to a garage.

How often should you get your air conditioning recharged?

recharge your air conditioning every 2-3 years.

 If you spot any warning signs, have a professional check it promptly to avoid bigger issues.

No, air conditioning is not part of a standard MOT test in the UK.

However, testers may flag related issues if they affect visibility or safety, such as a faulty demister system or problems with airflow to the windscreen. The AC system itself is not tested for cooling performance or gas levels during an MOT.

Is an air-con regas the same as recharging? 

Yes, an air-con regas and an air-con recharge mean the same thing. Both terms refer to refilling your car’s air conditioning system with refrigerant to keep it working properly.

Yes, it is worth it. Recharging your car’s air conditioning improves air quality, boosts fuel efficiency, and makes driving more comfortable. It also helps your engine last longer by reducing the effort needed to keep your car cool.

To help your air conditioning unit last as long as possible, proper care is essential. There are three main ways to maintain it:

Why is the car AC running but not cooling?

If your car AC is blowing air but not cooling, it usually points to a loss of refrigerant or a system fault. 

In many cases, the system still circulates air normally, but it cannot cool it effectively because pressure or cooling function has been lost.

If your car's air conditioning isn't cooling properly, there are a few practical steps you can take before booking a repair. However, we always recommend working with a professional garage if you’re unsure.

Start by checking whether the system simply needs a refrigerant recharge, as gas naturally depletes over time. If the air is still weak or warm, the cabin filter may be clogged and restricting airflow.

If these steps do not improve performance, a garage will usually carry out a pressure test to identify leaks or compressor issues. And remember — early diagnosis is important! Ignoring weak cooling can lead to more expensive repairs later.

While you can recharge your air conditioning unit at home, it’s not recommended unless you have plenty of car experience. 

Refrigerant gases can be hazardous and may damage your engine if handled incorrectly. It’s safest to leave aircon recharges to the professionals.

How to remove smell from car air conditioning?

You can use an air con purifier to remove the bacteria and odour from a car's air con within 10 minutes. However, if the problem is more serious, this quick fix might not last for long. 

Air cons with bad smells can also benefit from a general cleaning, known as an air conditioning ‘debug.’

If you’re unsure or the foul odour persists, Bumper recommends scheduling a service with a qualified mechanic for a longer-lasting solution.

Yes, technically, air conditioning uses your car’s fuel, and it takes power from the engine. 

Technically, this can lower your fuel efficiency, but the difference is tiny and not noticeable on most modern cars.

Can car air conditioning cause sinus problems?

Car air conditioning does not directly cause illness, but it can contribute to sinus irritation in some drivers. 

Air conditioning also reduces humidity in the car, which can dry out the nasal passages. When this happens, the natural lining of the sinuses becomes less effective at filtering dust, pollen, and other particles. This can lead to symptoms like congestion, mild headaches, or irritation in sensitive individuals.

In some cases, bacteria or mould can build up inside the AC system, especially around the evaporator, and this may also worsen allergy-type symptoms if the system is not regularly maintained.

Regular servicing and replacing the cabin filter can significantly reduce these issues.

“Black death” is a term used by mechanics to describe a severe failure inside a car’s air conditioning system. It happens when the compressor breaks down and contaminates the entire system with black debris.

The Black Death problem usually starts when refrigerant and internal lubricating oil break down, creating metal particles and corrosive residue. These particles spread through the system and can clog key components such as the condenser and evaporator. 

Unfortunately, this is considered one of the most expensive AC failures because simple repairs are not usually enough once contamination has spread. In severe cases, the entire AC system may need replacing.

If you suspect your car has this issue, we recommend booking maintenance with a mechanic as soon as possible to catch it before it worsens.

In short, regular care and occasional recharges keep your car’s aircon working well, so you stay cool and comfortable all summer long. You’ll thank yourself if a heatwave hits!

Need to repair your aircon? Facing a last-minute car repair? Split the cost into interest-free monthly repairs with Bumper's 

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

How Much Does It Cost To Recharge Your Car’s Air Conditioning? (2026)

How Much Does It Cost To Recharge Your Car’s Air Conditioning?

¿Cuánto cuesta recargar el aire acondicionado?

Wie viel kostet das Befüllen einer Klimaanlage?

Engines produce significant amounts of heat through normal operation. If the cooling system is not performing effectively, and the engine is allowed to overheat, this can cause serious problems for the engine. We’ll review the common causes, problems and solutions to engine overheating. 

Scroll down if you're in a rush and need to find out exactly what to do NOW if your car is overheating.

Engines have a specific temperature range they should operate within. This is regulated by the cooling system via a thermostat. Its purpose is to maintain an acceptable temperature range regardless of engine load or external conditions. 

An engine that is running too hot - the needle is in the red range of the gauge - or one that's temperature is increasing steadily with normal driving can be considered to be ‘overheating’.

If the engine heats up beyond safe temperatures, a warning light will come on.

All modern cars will have some form of gauge that indicates the engine's temperature, usually a dedicated dial that will start at cold and move to normal as the engine warms up. 

It’s good practice to keep an eye on this dial whenever driving, especially if you notice the gauge at anything more than normal temps. 

Some situations like towing a heavy trailer, or idling in traffic on a very hot day may affect the temperature slightly, but those situations should be very rare in the UK’s climate. 

What if my car doesn't have a temperature gauge? 

Some cars don’t make space for a dedicated temperature gauge, either due to a design choice by the manufacturer or a cost-cutting measure. 

Don’t worry though, almost all cars will have at least a low and high-temperature warning light - check your owner’s manual for more information. 

You’ll see this light when the car is first turned on, usually presenting as a blue light, to indicate the engine is cold - this should turn off after 10-20 minutes of driving. 

Should you notice your temperature gauge is sitting higher than normal, or is rising with normal driving conditions, your engine may be overheating. 

1. You should park as soon as it’s safe to do so and turn off the engine. 

2. If the gauge is only slightly above the middle, leave the engine to cool down and continue your drive after 30-40 minutes. Be prepared to stop again should the engine continue to overheat. 

3. If the engine has overheated to the red zone of the gauge, or you have not noticed it increasing until this point, stop the car as soon as possible. 

4. Call for assistance immediately from your breakdown cover

5. It is not recommended to continue driving, as the heat will only increase until the engine suffers fatal damage. 

The cooling system on any engine is designed to remove as much heat as possible from the engine and components connected to it, the first step to diagnosing an overheating engine is to check the coolant system for faults. 

An ECU scanning tool could help identify if any of the temperature sensors are reading higher than normal levels, this will help pinpoint where the issue is. Thermostats should be tested to ensure they are opening and allowing the radiator to work effectively. 

There are a few different reasons your car may be overheating, most stem from a fault with the cooling system. Two reasons for overheating engines could be no coolant or a blocked radiator. 

Engine cooling systems use a liquid coolant to remove excess heat from the engine, by transferring it into the air via a radiator. If the coolant system has no coolant left due to a leak or natural evaporation, the cooling system will not work. 

If you don’t know what coolant to use, check our guide 

The coolant system uses a radiator to remove heat from the engine. They are similar to a household radiator (except they work in the opposite way) in that they have thin ‘fins’ of metal for higher surface area. 

These fins can become blocked with dirt and debris from an ageing cooling system and create blockages in the system as a whole. Once the coolant is blocked from flowing around the system, heat can no longer be removed and the engine will gradually overheat. 

How much does it cost to fix an overheating engine 

Noticing the problem early is key. If the engine is overheating due to a cooling issue such as a leaking radiator, blocked hoses or failing water pump, and the engine hasn’t been driven excessively whilst overheating, typical repair costs for an overheating engine should be between under £300-400. Noticing the problem early is key. 

However, if the engine is exhibiting the signs detailed above, particularly loss of power, then your engine may need serious repair work. In some cases, this will involve a new cylinder head, but at the least, a new head gasket is probably required. 

 but a new cylinder head could easily run between £1000-1500 to fix. 

Don't face a hefty repair bill alone. Split the cost into interest-free monthly instalments at thousands of partner garages nationwide.

How to tell if my engine has been damaged by overheating 

Engines are manufactured to precise tolerances, overheating can easily cause the metal components to warp or crack under the mechanical and temperature stresses.

If this happens there are often clear signs of overheating these include smoke from the engine bay, loss of power, and issues starting the engine. 

If you experience any of these problems after your engine has been driven whilst overheating there’s a good chance your engine is seriously damaged.

If you have an overheating engine and are unsure what to do, it may be time to speak to an expert. With 

, you can split the cost of service and repairs into interest-free monthly payments at 1000s of dependable garages and dealerships. 

 has been writing about cars for over seven years and writing for Bumper for over two, blending his passion for automobiles with a talent for storytelling.

Joseph has written about engineering and cars for Autozilla, Komaspec, and several engineering manufacturers. When he's not writing or tinkering with one of his five cars, Joseph dreams of owning an Alfa Romeo 33 Stradale.

What To Do If Your Engine Is Overheating

With the weather beginning to brighten up, many motorists might find themselves with the extra time and sunny weather needed to have a good clean out of their car.

Deep cleaning your vehicle not only makes it look nice, but it can also actually prevent costly maintenance bills down the line. With this in mind, we’ve outlined eight simple steps you can follow to ensure your vehicle is clean and ready to tackle the warmer months. 

Before you start on a deep cleanse of your vehicle, you should begin by removing all of the unnecessary clutter that you don’t need in your car. This can include rubbish and general waste, toys if you’re a parent and any other items that have accumulated over the winter months. Use a black bin bag to collect all of the rubbish and put any items that should be in the house back where they belong so you’re ready to properly begin spring cleaning your vehicle. 

Next, you'll want to give your car a deep clean. 

If you have fabric seats, now is the time to give them a thorough cleaning so you can fully enjoy them throughout the rest of spring and summer. You can use a special upholstery cleaner or you can make your own cleaner by mixing equal parts water and vinegar. Use a soft-bristled brush to scrub the seats, and then use a wet and dry vacuum to suck up the moisture. For leather seats, use a leather cleaner to remove any dirt or stains. 

4. Don't forget the carpets and floor mats

The carpets in your car can get just as dirty as the seats, especially if you live in an area with a lot of snow, ice and, therefore, salt on the roads. Use a carpet cleaner to remove any stains or ground-in dirt, then use a wet and dry vacuum to remove the moisture. If you have floor mats, be sure to clean them as well. Baking soda is particularly great for floor mats as it’s an odour neutraliser. However, avoid chucking your floor mats in the washing machine as it’s bound to damage the rubber backing on the carpet. 

Over time, the air vents in your car can become clogged with dust and dirt. As a result, this can reduce the effectiveness of your air conditioning and heating system, which might lead to you seeking a costly service much sooner than expected. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently clean the vents, then use compressed air to blow out any remaining debris. Repeat until there are no remnants. 

If your headlights are cloudy or yellowed, they’ll not only be less bright but you could even be hit with a fine for failing to keep them clear. 

After you've finished cleaning your car, it's important to protect the paint to avoid damage and, as a result, more unwelcome maintenance fees. Use a high-quality wax or sealant to create a barrier between your car's paint and the elements. This will help to prevent damage from UV rays, acid rain and other environmental factors which could lead to expensive touch-ups to the paintwork in the future. 

8. Check your tyre pressure and engine fluid levels

Lastly, now that the outside of your car is looking great, why not check under the bonnet to be safe? 

The Odd Quirks of King Charles III's Automobiles

How Much Does a Brake Pipe Replacement Cost?

Lookers BMW Stoke Named Dealership of the Month

How Much Does It Cost To Recharge Your Car’s Air Conditioning? (2026)

What To Do If Your Engine Is Overheating

8 easy tips for spring cleaning your car

How Much Does A Transmission Fluid Change Cost?

What Happens If You Can't Afford Your Car Payments