Vehicle reliability and repair costs both rising
MotorEasy has reported a sharp rise in vehicle reliability, but warned of expensive repair costs when they do fail.
For the first time ever six cars have achieved a top score in its Reliability Index, with the first hybrid, the Lexus CT, making the top 10.
The Index analyses data from warranty claims going back more than nine years, with the top six from the first quarter of 2025 including the Audi Q2, Jaguar E-PACE, Lexus CT, Mazda CX-3, Suzuki Vitara and Volvo XC40.
Meanwhile, the four most unreliable models were all Audis, with the Audi A4, Audi A6, Audi A7, and Audi Q7 followed by the BMW 5 Series.
However, while reliability is increasing, so too are repair costs with more complex technology and more expensive parts both driving up costs.
Biggest claim
MotorEasy research found that one claim last quarter was a staggering £6,244, for a battery fault on a Hyundai Ioniq EV, while an Audi A6 alternator would typically cost around £600 to replace but the latest models use water-cooled parts that cost more than £2,000.
In terms of average repair costs, it found the five most expensive models were the Hyundai IONIQ, Mercedes GT, Kia Optima, BMW X2, and Bentley Continental, while the five cheapest were the Volvo XC40, Audi Q2, Kia CEED, Peugeot 108, and Vauxhall Adam.
Hybrids
Duncan McClure Fisher, CEO of Intelligent Motoring, the parent company of MotorEasy said, “It’s interesting to see hybrids entering the top 10 most reliable cars list, but when buying a vehicle, it is important for motorists to look at the whole picture and consider potential repair costs too.
“There is still an on-going parts shortage pushing up prices of parts, along with more complex manufacturing methods placing pressure on availability, so no matter how reliable a vehicle is, it can be costly if a repair is needed.”
“Once they have chosen their car, it is important that vehicle owners keep their vehicle and service history up to date as evidence that they are maintaining their vehicles.
“This is where a warranty can offer real peace of mind, not only by protecting against unexpected repair costs, but also by providing predictable, set payments that are easier to manage within a household budget. In times of rising repair bills, it can be a smart, cost-effective choice.”
