Used car vehicle repairs climb to £1,200
New data has revealed that the average UK motorist spends £1,200 on vehicle repairs after buying a second-hand car.
Motoring experts at Blackcircles surveyed 2,000 UK drivers who bought a second-hand car and found that unexpected repair costs averaged £1,200, with that rising to £4,000 among 25-34-year-olds.
However, those aged over 65 reported the lowest repair costs, averaging £370.
Ray Kavanagh, CEO of Blackcircles.com, said: “Buying a second-hand car can be a great way to save money, but drivers must know what to check before committing to a purchase.
“A vehicle’s MOT history can tell buyers a lot before they commit, from previous failures and recurring advisories to mileage records. Buyers should also check when the next MOT is due, as a car with an MOT expiring soon may need further work shortly after purchase.
“Tyres are especially important because they’re one of the most common MOT failure categories and can have a direct impact on safety. Buyers should check tread depth and tyre condition carefully, looking for signs of uneven wear, cracking, bulges, or other damage.
“An HPI or vehicle history check can help flag issues that may not be obvious when viewing the car, including outstanding finance, write-off status, stolen vehicle records, and mileage discrepancies. It shouldn’t replace an in-person inspection or test drive, but it can help buyers identify risks before money changes hands.”
