A significant surge in repair expenses for Britain’s most frequently driven vehicles is emerging as a concern for motorists this year. New research indicates that the average cost of repairing the top ten most popular used cars across the UK has increased dramatically, jumping by an astonishing 20% compared to last year.
The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) data reveals that the Ford Fiesta remained the dominant force in used car sales during 2024, with millions still on the road. However, escalating repair costs could lead drivers to reconsider this long-standing favorite.
Specifically, the average cost of repairing a Ford Fiesta rose sharply from £925 in 2023 to a substantial £1,159 – an increase of 25%. This represents a one-fifth overall rise in repair expenses across the surveyed vehicles. Some owners are facing increases approaching 30%.
Several factors contribute to this upward trend. Global economic pressures, including lingering effects from the pandemic and ongoing international conflicts, have disrupted manufacturing and created shortages of vital components. Furthermore, industry experts cite potential tariff adjustments implemented by President Donald Trump as a contributing element, potentially further driving up prices for steel and other essential materials.
“Our latest Reliability Index data from 2024 reveals some key trends for car owners to be aware of,” stated Antony Diggins, Managing Director of Warrantywise. “With repair costs continuing to rise, it’s something all motorists will need to consider – especially given the wider economic challenges and inflation in the UK.”
Notable increases were observed in other popular models:
- Vauxhall Corsa: Increased from £604 to £727 (20%)
- Volkswagen Golf: Increased from £1,011 to £1,200 (18%)
- Ford Focus: Increased from £1,158 to £1,327 (15%)
- BMW 3 Series: Increased from £1,308 to £1,443 (10%)
- Volkswagen Polo: Increased from £791 to £813 (3%)
- Vauxhall Astra: Increased from £819 to £1,047 (28%)
- Mini: No reported data available.
- Nissan Qashqai: Increased from £1,099 to £1,293 (18%)
- BMW 1 Series: £1,294 (Comparison with previous years unavailable)
Warrantywise highlighted that while the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) has decreased – falling from 7.3% in 2023 to 2.5% by December 2024 – this reduction doesn’t necessarily reflect the increasing cost of vehicle repairs, particularly for those without comprehensive warranty coverage.
“That said, our data offers valuable insights for anyone looking to buy a used car or wanting to understand the potential repair issues with their current vehicle,” Diggins added. “It is also a reminder that cars are complex machines, even the most reliable ones can develop faults – no vehicle is completely immune.”