Bumper reports shift toward out-of-hours payments for repair bills

Bumper is flagging a significant change in how customers are paying for vehicle repairs, with a growing number opting to settle bills outside traditional dealership opening hours.

According to Bumper’s data, over two-thirds (67%) of customers using its PayLater service - which allows repair bills to be split into interest-free monthly payments - are completing their transactions remotely during out-of-hours periods.

Additionally, 33% of PayNow transactions, enabling direct card payments or Pay by Bank, also take place when dealerships are closed.

Bumper’s analysis highlights that much of this repair work is initiated by customers authorising Vehicle Health Check (VHC) advisories, which provide direct links to payment options.

Daniel Christie, Bumper’s head of sales, said: “By expanding the number of rooftops utilising our services and integrating with more dealer systems, we're seeing customers embrace the ability to authorise and pay for repair work at their convenience.”

He added: “VHCs are proving to be a game-changer for remote payments, giving customers instant access to the information they need. Consequently, most transactions now occur in the evening, when car owners are at home and have time to make informed decisions and without the pressure of in-person upselling.”

Christie noted the benefits to dealerships: “This move eliminates discounting and drives conversions, making aftersales transactions more profitable. These automated out-of-hours payments are also helping to streamline dealership operations, freeing up valuable resources to be used elsewhere by allowing teams to focus on higher-value tasks.”

Last year, Bumper facilitated £300 million worth of transactions and is on track to exceed £1.1 billion this year.