Common Vehicle Issues by Make
Research known problems for popular car brands before you buy. Understand typical faults, expensive repairs to watch for, and reliability patterns that affect ownership costs.
Why Brand-Specific Knowledge Matters
Every manufacturer has strengths and weaknesses. Some excel at reliability but lag in technology. Others offer cutting-edge features but suffer common faults. Understanding brand patterns helps you make informed decisions and budget for likely repairs.
This guide covers typical issues for popular UK brands. Remember that individual vehicle history matters more than brand reputation. Always check MOT history and service records regardless of make.
Ford
PowerShift automatic gearbox (Focus, Fiesta)
Dry clutch automatic prone to juddering, overheating, and premature wear. Most common on 2011-2016 models. Replacement costs £1,500-2,500. Check for smooth gear changes and no warning lights during test drive.
EcoBoost engine issues
1.0L three-cylinder engine can suffer coolant loss, overheating, and head gasket failure. Affects 2012-2018 models. Ford extended warranty on some vehicles. Check for white smoke, overheating, or coolant smells.
Generally reliable aspects
Manual gearboxes excellent. Suspension robust. Parts widely available and affordable. Diesel engines (1.6 TDCi) generally strong if serviced properly. Overall good value despite known issues.
Volkswagen / Audi / SEAT / Skoda (VAG Group)
DSG automatic gearbox
Dual-clutch transmission needs service every 40,000 miles (£300-400). Mechatronic unit failures cost £1,500-2,000. Common on all VAG brands 2008-2016. Check service history and smooth operation.
Diesel emissions systems
DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) and EGR valve issues common. DPF regeneration problems if used for short journeys. EGR cleaning or replacement costs £400-800. Warning lights and poor performance indicate problems.
Water pump and timing belt
Must be changed together every 60,000-80,000 miles. Failure causes catastrophic engine damage. Service costs £600-1,000. Always verify cambelt history before purchase.
Positive aspects
Excellent build quality. TSI petrol engines reliable if maintained. Skoda offers VAG engineering at lower prices. Residual values strong. Parts network extensive across all brands.
BMW
Timing chain issues (N47 diesel)
Premature timing chain stretch on 2.0 diesel engines (2007-2015). Rattling noise at startup. Failure destroys engine. Repair costs £2,000-3,000. Avoid N47 engines or ensure chain replaced.
Electronics and sensors
Complex electronics mean expensive sensor failures. Common issues include parking sensors, iDrive system glitches, and module failures. Individual repairs £200-600. Multiple faults add up quickly.
Cooling system problems
Plastic cooling system components prone to failure. Water pump, expansion tank, and thermostat housing common culprits. Costs £300-800 per component. Overheating can damage engine.
Reliable engines
Straight-six petrol engines (B58) excellent. Four-cylinder petrols generally solid. Later diesels (B47) fixed timing chain issues. Driving dynamics remain class-leading.
Mercedes-Benz
Rust issues (older models)
Pre-2010 models prone to rust around wheel arches and sills. Expensive bodywork repairs. Check thoroughly underneath. Newer models have improved significantly.
Air suspension failures
Airmatic suspension expensive when it fails. Compressor, bags, or valve block issues cost £800-2,000. Consider steel spring models for lower running costs.
Balance shaft issues (M271 engine)
1.8L supercharged petrol engines suffer balance shaft wear. Expensive repair (£2,000+). Listen for rattling from engine. Affects C-Class and E-Class 2002-2011.
Diesel reliability
Diesel engines generally robust with proper maintenance. Excellent for high mileage. Luxury features age well. Build quality remains strong throughout life.
Vauxhall
Timing belt and water pump
Critical service at manufacturer intervals. Failure causes expensive engine damage. Water pump often included in belt change. Budget £400-600 for complete job.
Corsa electrical issues
Dashboard warning lights common. Window regulators fail frequently. Central locking problems. Individual fixes £100-300 but multiple issues frustrating.
Value proposition
Low purchase prices. Affordable parts and servicing. Simple to work on. Good dealer network. Excellent for budget-conscious buyers accepting higher maintenance frequency.
Honda
Diesel engines (avoid)
Honda diesel engines problematic across models. DPF issues, injector failures, dual-mass flywheel problems. Repair costs high. Stick to Honda petrol engines for reliability.
Petrol engine excellence
Legendary reliability. VTEC engines smooth and durable. Timing chains (not belts) last vehicle lifetime. Minimal issues if serviced on time. Among most reliable brands available.
Build quality and value
Strong residual values reflect reliability reputation. Lower insurance groups. Excellent safety ratings. Parts more expensive than mainstream brands but needed less frequently.
Toyota
Industry-leading reliability
Consistently top reliability surveys. Hybrid technology proven over 20+ years. Lower maintenance costs than competitors. Warranty support excellent. Boring but dependable.
Hybrid battery concerns
Older hybrid batteries (10+ years) may need replacement at £1,000-2,500. However, many exceed 150,000 miles without issues. Check battery health on older Prius models.
Ownership experience
Minimal unexpected repairs. Strong dealer network. Excellent resale values. Low running costs. Perfect for reliability-focused buyers. Diesel models rare and best avoided.
Land Rover / Range Rover
Air suspension complexity
Expensive air suspension repairs common. Compressors, air springs, and height sensors fail. Single corner repair £800-1,200. Full system £3,000+. Consider coil spring conversion.
Electronics and gremlins
Complex electronics unreliable. Dashboard warnings frequent. Infotainment crashes. Sensor failures. Multiple dealer visits normal. High diagnostic and repair costs.
Engine and transmission issues
TDV6 diesel engine problems. Auto gearbox failures expensive. Turbo issues on diesel models. Budget significantly for repairs. Extended warranty essential for peace of mind.
Off-road capability
Unmatched off-road ability. Comfortable on-road. Desirable badge. Strong when working properly. Best bought under warranty or with substantial maintenance budget.
General Buying Advice
- Research specific model and year before buying
- Join owner forums to learn about real-world issues
- Check MOT history for patterns in advisories and failures
- Budget extra for premium brands (BMW, Mercedes, Land Rover)
- Consider independent specialist over main dealer for older cars
- Extended warranty worth considering for complex vehicles
- Service history more important than low mileage
- Don't assume newer always means more reliable
Check Vehicle History
Review MOT records to see if common faults for the make have already appeared as advisories or failures.
Check MOT History