Common issue: faulty brakes in used UK vehicles

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【Summary】AA Cars has found that faulty brakes are the most common issue with used vehicles in the UK. Data from expert assessors revealed that 70% of inspected used cars had at least one fault. Brake issues were the most common flaw, costing an average of £400 to fix. Other common faults included previous accident damage, corrosion, and clutch malfunctions. Buyers were found to have little knowledge of potential faults, with only 24% aware that brakes were the most common issue.

FutureCar Staff Aug 31, 2023 12:22 AM PT

Common issue: faulty brakes in used UK vehicles

AA cars is warning used car buyers in Britain to be cautious of faulty brakes, as they have been found to be the most common issue when purchasing a second-hand vehicle. Data from the platform's expert assessors revealed that 70% of the used cars they inspected had at least one fault. The most prevalent flaw was brake issues, which on average cost £400 to fix. The next most common faults were signs of previous accident damage and corrosion, followed by clutch malfunctions, with repair costs ranging from £600 to £800.

Among the most costly faults were timing chain and belt fault noises, which could set drivers back as much as £1,200. The survey also found that 85% of potential buyers lift up the car's bonnet to inspect it, but 45% admitted to having no idea what they were looking for. Only 24% of respondents were aware that brakes were the most common flaw to watch out for.

Reacting to the findings, AA president Edmund King emphasized the importance of a pre-purchase vehicle inspection, comparing it to getting a survey before buying a house. He highlighted that many common issues are difficult for non-experts to spot, even if they carry out some checks themselves. AA vehicle inspectors conduct up to 206 checks on a car, a level of expertise that is nearly impossible for the average person to replicate. With 70% of used cars assessed having some kind of issue, King warned that buyers who skip inspections are taking a significant financial risk.

Vehicle inspections not only provide peace of mind but also give buyers negotiating power. If a fault is found, buyers can request a repair or haggle down the price before making the purchase. King stressed the value of inspections in ensuring that a vehicle is in good condition and that buyers won't encounter any unpleasant surprises down the road.