Most common problem with used vehicles in the UK

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【Summary】AA Cars has found that faulty brakes are the most common issue with used vehicles in the UK. In a survey, at least one fault was found in 70% of the used cars inspected. Brake issues were the most common flaw, followed by signs of previous accident damage and clutch malfunctions. Timing chain and belt faults were found to be the most expensive to fix, costing up to £1,200. The survey also revealed that many buyers have little knowledge about potential faults when purchasing a used car.

FutureCar Staff Aug 18, 2023 4:33 PM PT

Most common problem with used vehicles in the UK

AA cars has issued a warning to used car buyers in Britain, urging them to be cautious of faulty brakes. According to data collected from its expert assessors, 70% of the used cars they inspected had at least one fault. Among the most common issues were problems with brakes, which on average cost £400 to fix.

Aside from brake issues, the next most frequent faults were signs of previous accident damage and corrosion, followed by clutch malfunctions. Repairing these issues could cost between £600 and £800. However, the faults that could potentially have the biggest financial impact on drivers were timing chain and belt fault noises, which could set them back as much as £1,200.

In a survey conducted by AA cars, it was found that 85% of potential buyers lifted the bonnet of a used car to inspect it. However, 45% admitted that they had no idea what they were looking for, and only 24% were aware that brake issues were the most common flaw to watch out for.

Responding to the findings, Edmund King, AA president, emphasized the importance of pre-purchase vehicle inspections. He compared buying a car to buying a house, stating that while most people wouldn't purchase a house without a survey, many car buyers neglect to consider the benefits of a thorough inspection before spending thousands of pounds.

King highlighted that many of the most common problems found during vehicle inspections are difficult for the average person to detect. Even if buyers attempt some checks themselves, such as lifting the bonnet, they often lack the knowledge of what to look for. AA vehicle inspectors perform up to 206 checks on a car, a task that is nearly impossible for non-motoring experts to replicate.

With 70% of used cars assessed having some kind of issue, King emphasized the financial risk that buyers take when purchasing without an inspection. He stated that vehicle inspections can provide valuable peace of mind and allow buyers to negotiate a lower price or request repairs before finalizing the purchase.