Mechanic names least reliable cars on sale in UK | Tech News

A mechanic has named a listing of cars he thinks people ought to keep away from shopping for, as more and more motorists flip to the used car market.

In latest years, the numbers of people opting to buy a used car somewhat than go new has soared, as drivers search nearly-new cars at cheaper costs.

What this has meant in flip is that some car sellers have been capable of raise their costs in response to the demand from the market.

However, with the frenzy to buy a premium discount, consultants have been warning potential consumers what to look out for, which fashions to decide on, and which to keep away from.

In response to a query about which autos he thought have been the least reliable, car mechanic and writer James Goodhand had some options about autos potential-buyers ought to be cautious of.

James was significantly essential of two very fashionable manufacturers at both finish of the premium spectrum, highlighting Jaguar Land Rover’s Range Rover model and a few used Ford cars as autos to steer clear of.

On Range Rovers he stated: “The ownership experience is akin to sitting in a comfy leather chair on top of a block of flats, tearing up fifty-pound notes.

“As I have had to advise several unfortunate customers who’ve faced ruination, this is a £100k car and no matter that you bought it second hand for £25k, it still has the running costs of a hundred-grand vehicle, and an appallingly built one at that.”

On Fords, James added: “Sadly (as a historic blue oval fan) I tend to direct people away from used Fords. The petrol engines with their ‘wet belts’ can be an absolute disaster – killing an engine if they break or disintegrating with a consequent 2k repair bill.”

He defined: “Timing belts are reliant on friction and rubber breaks down in oil, and yet these engines have the belt quite deliberately running in engine oil as a timing chain would. And Ford’s diesels seem to suffer more particulate filter issues than most, so the brand is best avoided full stop.”

Whilst James was essential of used Fords, one other mechanic heaped reward on one of the manufacturers most iconic cars, the Ford Focus, and urged that it was really a good used buy.

Speaking to the Daily Mail, Paul Lucas recommened the Mk1 Ford Focus for its simplicity and reliability. He advised the publication: “For me a 20-year-old 1.6 litre Mk1 Ford Focus is top for reliability.

“It was designed earlier than all of the pointless bells and whistles got here in and even helps you to begin the car with a actual key somewhat than press a button. I purchased mine 15 years in the past for £500 and have no regrets.”

James and Paul’s comments come as the second-hand car market undergoes a major shift, due to an increasing number of electric cars entering the market.

This has been noted by the SMMT (Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders) who stated that demand for used electric cars had soared in 2024.

In a assertion they stated: “Demand continued to soar for used battery electric cars (BEVs), rising some 57.4% to a record 188,382 units and achieving a new high for market share, at 2.5%, up from 1.7% in 2023 and 13 times larger than back in 2019.

“Combined, the number of used electrified vehicles changing hands increased by 43.3% on 2023, with more than half a million of these ultra low or zero emission motors accounting for a 7.7% share of sales.

“This growth aligns with the new car market and demonstrates the increasing demand and choice across the sector for new and used electric motors – at price points to suit all potential buyers.”