When buying a used car, reliability is one of the most critical factors – after all, no one wants to spend a hefty sum on a car only to face unexpected repair bills, so it helps to know the most reliable car brands in the UK.
Because whether it’s for daily commutes or family road trips, you want to know that your vehicle will start when you turn the key and won’t leave you stranded on the side of the road.
If you’re wondering which car brands you can really trust, we’ve taken feedback from the Driver Power Survey, which gets information from thousands of UK car owners nationwide, insights from the Palmdale Used Car Buying Guide, and our extensive hands-on experience to pick out the UK’s most reliable car brands, as well as those that offer mixed results and brands you might want to approach with caution.
All the brands we’ve picked out are popular choices in the UK used car market, so if you’re starting to search for your next vehicle, here’s what should top your list.
Why Reliability is Key
Choosing a reliable car is often the main concern for used car buyers for several reasons, including peace of mind but also the cost of ownership.
A reliable car is less likely to experience breakdowns, and maintenance costs tend to be more predictable. Because who wants an unexpected bill every month when yet another thing has gone wrong?
What Does Reliability Mean to You as a Buyer?
- Cost efficiency: Fewer mechanical issues mean lower repair bills, especially for more complicated systems like suspension, electronics, or engine management.
- Longevity: A well-built car should last for many years, and you shouldn’t have to worry about replacing it any time soon.
- Resale value: Reliable cars tend to hold their value better, making them easier to sell when you’re ready to upgrade.
How to Measure Reliability
The best way to work out the most reliable car brands in the UK is through extensive owner surveys, like the Driver Power Survey, which gather data from thousands of car owners nationwide every year. These surveys assess everything from mechanical faults and build quality to customer satisfaction and after-sales service.
Paired with our own insights from the Palmdale Used Car Buying Guide, you’ll see which brands are top contenders for reliability and which ones may require extra caution.
Top Rated: The Most Reliable Car Brands in the UK
If you’re looking for the UK’s most reliable car brands, here’s where to start:
1. Toyota
Toyota consistently leads the pack when it comes to reliability. Known for its superb engineering and robust build quality, Toyota’s cars are famous for their ability to go the distance with minimal issues. Whether it’s a compact Yaris or a family-sized C-HR, Toyotas are built to last.
Why Toyota?
- Hybrid technology leadership: Toyota’s hybrid systems are some of the most reliable in the industry, with owners reporting few issues even after high mileage.
- Low cost of ownership: With fewer breakdowns and excellent fuel economy, Toyota cars often end up costing less in the long run.
Toyota owners in the Driver Power Survey highlight the brand’s solid performance, particularly its hybrids like the Prius. For buyers seeking a low-risk, high-reward vehicle, Toyota remains a top choice.
2. Honda
Honda, much like Toyota, enjoys a reputation for building rock-solid cars. Models like the Civic and C-RV are known for their durability, with many examples easily surpassing 100,000 miles without major repairs.
What sets Honda apart?
- Efficient engines: Honda’s engines are legendary for their reliability and efficiency. Whether it’s petrol or hybrid, they seem to keep running with little fuss.
- Practicality: Honda’s interiors are designed with practicality in mind, and reliability extends to small but important features like electronics, buttons, and seats.
In the Driver Power Survey, Honda ranks consistently high, with owners praising the minimal mechanical issues and ease of servicing. Hondas may not always be the flashiest cars, but they get the job done with little to no drama.
3. Lexus
Lexus, Toyota’s luxury arm, combines the best of reliability with premium quality. If you’re looking for a luxury car that won’t give you headaches down the road, Lexus models like the NX and RX should be at the top of your list.
Why Lexus?
- Impeccable build quality: From the fit and finish to the materials used, Lexus cars are renowned for their attention to detail.
- Hybrid reliability: Like their Toyota counterparts, Lexus hybrids are robust and fuel-efficient, making them a great long-term investment.
Lexus models frequently top the Driver Power Survey for reliability, with owners loving the combination of luxury and dependability. While they come at a premium price, you’re paying for long-lasting quality.
4. Hyundai
Hyundai has become a serious contender in the reliability game over the last decade. Models like the i30 and Tucson are not only well-equipped and affordable but also reliable. Hyundai backs its cars with a 5-year warranty, which speaks volumes about the confidence they have in their product.
Hyundai Highlights
- Affordable but reliable: Hyundai provides excellent value, combining modern features with robust engineering.
- Solid warranties: The 5-year warranty offered on Hyundai models means you can expect fewer surprises in terms of repair costs.
In the Driver Power Survey, Hyundai owners praise the brand for its combination of reliability and low ownership costs. If you’re looking for an affordable, worry-free used car, Hyundai is a strong option.
5. Kia
Kia has followed closely in Hyundai’s footsteps, establishing itself as a brand known for reliability and affordability. With its 7-year warranty, Kia offers one of the best new-car warranties in the business, which carries over to the used market, making models like the Niro and Sportage particularly appealing.
Why choose Kia?
- Exceptional warranties: Kia’s 7-year warranty is an excellent indicator of their confidence in the longevity of their vehicles.
- Good value: Kia models often come with a lower price tag compared to rivals, without compromising on reliability or features.
Kia ranks highly in customer satisfaction surveys, with drivers reporting very few issues during ownership. For those who prioritise reliability but want to keep costs down, Kia is a fantastic choice.
Car Brands with Mixed Reliability Scores
The next best? Here’s how some other favourite car brands fare when it comes to reliability:
1. Ford
Ford is one of the most popular brands in the UK, but when it comes to reliability, it’s something of a mixed bag. While the Puma and Focus remain strong contenders in terms of sales, they don’t always fare as well when it comes to long-term reliability.
What’s the catch?
- Maintenance is key: Fords require consistent maintenance to remain reliable. Skipping service intervals can lead to common issues like gearbox failures or electrical problems.
- Inconsistent performance: While some models perform admirably, others can suffer from frequent repairs, especially as they age.
According to the Driver Power Survey, Ford owners report higher-than-average repair costs, though the cars are generally cheap to buy and fun to drive. If you’re considering a used Ford, a comprehensive service history is crucial.
2. Volkswagen
Volkswagen has built a reputation for solid engineering, but its reliability can vary from model to model. While cars like the Golf and Polo are popular choices, they don’t always match their Japanese rivals in terms of reliability.
What to watch for:
- Premium pricing, premium repairs: Volkswagen vehicles tend to be more expensive to repair, especially when it comes to electrical issues.
- Mixed feedback: In the Driver Power Survey, some Volkswagen models fare well, while others suffer from reliability issues, particularly with their diesel engines.
Volkswagen is still a brand many people trust, and for good reason, but it’s worth knowing that not all models are equal in terms of reliability. Be prepared for potentially higher running costs if something goes wrong.
3. BMW
BMW is another premium brand with a strong reputation for performance and driving enjoyment. However, that reputation doesn’t always extend to reliability. While models like the 3 Series and X3 are desirable, they can be costly to maintain.
Why the split?
- Expensive to repair: BMWs are packed with advanced technology, which can be costly to fix if something breaks.
- Mixed reliability: Some BMWs have outstanding reliability records, while others, particularly older models, can suffer from suspension and electrical faults.
BMW drivers love the cars for their driving dynamics, but reliability is often a concern, as shown in the Driver Power Survey. If you’re after performance, BMW is a great option – but be prepared to spend more on maintenance.
Car Brands to Approach with Caution
If reliability is key for you, these are the car brands to be warier of:
1. Land Rover
Land Rover, despite its strong British heritage, has struggled with reliability issues for years. While models like the Range Rover and Discovery Sport are popular for their luxury and off-road capability, they’re notorious for mechanical problems.
Common Issues:
- Frequent repairs: Land Rovers often suffer from issues with their suspension and electronics, leading to high repair costs.
- Luxury, but at a price: While these vehicles provide a premium experience, they are often expensive to maintain, with frequent trips to the garage.
2. Alfa Romeo
Alfa Romeo is known for producing cars with stunning designs and engaging driving dynamics, but reliability has long been a concern. Models like the Giulia and Stelvio have received mixed reviews, with owners often reporting problems with electrical systems and build quality.
3. Fiat
Fiat’s range of small city cars, including the 500 and Panda, are popular for their fun design and low running costs, but they don’t always score well for reliability. Issues often arise with electronics, and while they’re cheap to repair, these frequent trips to the garage can become tiresome.
The Most Reliable Car Brands in the UK: What’s Best for You?
In conclusion, Japanese brands like Toyota, Honda, and Lexus continue to dominate the reliability rankings, offering low ownership costs and long-lasting dependability. Hyundai and Kia are also strong contenders, providing excellent warranties and affordable models that don’t compromise on reliability.
On the other hand, Ford, Volkswagen, and BMW are more mixed when it comes to reliability – fantastic cars in many ways, they’re potentially more expensive to maintain.
And for those who love brands like Land Rover or Alfa Romeo, be prepared to deal with higher repair bills down the road.
Ultimately, buying a used car comes down to your needs, budget, and what you value most in a vehicle. Whether it’s reliability, driving enjoyment, or luxury, doing your homework and consulting surveys like Driver Power can help you make a more informed decision.
As always, here at Palmdale, we recommend thoroughly checking the service history and getting a professional inspection before making any used car purchase. Happy car hunting! 🚗
And if you need a helping hand or more advice, here’s how the Palmdale team can help