Most common problem with used cars in the UK: faulty brakes

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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 at least 70% of inspected used cars had some kind of fault. Brake issues were the most prevalent, costing an average of £400 to fix. Other common faults included previous accident damage, corrosion, and clutch malfunctions. Buyers are urged to consider pre-purchase vehicle inspections to avoid potential financial risks.

FutureCar Staff Aug 23, 2023 6:55 AM PT

Most common problem with used cars in the UK: faulty brakes

AA cars is warning used car buyers in Britain to be cautious when purchasing second-hand vehicles, as faulty brakes have been identified as the most common issue. The platform has analyzed data from its expert assessors, who found that 70% of the used cars they inspected had at least one fault. Brakes were found to be the most common flaw, with an average cost of £400 to fix.

Aside from brake issues, signs of previous accident damage and corrosion were the next most common faults. Clutch-related malfunctions were also prevalent and cost between £600 and £800 to repair. However, the most expensive faults to fix were timing chain and belt fault noises, which could cost up to £1,200.

The survey also revealed that only 24% of potential buyers knew that brakes were the most common flaw to look out for. While 85% of buyers claimed to lift up the car's bonnet, 45% admitted they had no idea what to look for. Edmund King, AA president, emphasized the importance of pre-purchase vehicle inspections, comparing them to surveys conducted before buying a house.

King stated, "Many of the most common problems vehicle inspectors find during assessments are hard for the average person to spot. Even if drivers carry out some checks themselves, such as looking at the bonnet, many do not know what they're looking for." AA vehicle inspectors conduct up to 206 checks on a car, making it nearly impossible for non-motoring experts to replicate.

With 70% of used cars assessed found to have some kind of issue, King warns that buyers who skip inspections are taking a significant financial risk. He suggests that vehicle inspections provide valuable peace of mind and enable buyers to negotiate a lower price or request repairs before making a purchase.