In a revealing new survey by CarGurus, it has become evident that UK drivers have a low tolerance for unexpected car repair costs, with many reaching their “breaking point” at just £772. The survey, which polled 1,000 UK drivers of vehicles without warranties, sheds light on how much the average motorist is willing to tolerate before considering a new purchase, and highlights the top used car choices for those looking to avoid repair-related stress.
The Breaking Point
According to the survey, UK drivers are willing to endure fewer than three faults and will spend an average of £772 over the next 12 months on unexpected repairs before deciding to replace their vehicle. In stark contrast, when the breaking point is reached, drivers are prepared to spend an average of £14,320 on a new car—an impressive 1,752% more than they would on repairing their current vehicle.
This revelation comes at a time when the average age of cars on UK roads has risen to nine years, a noticeable increase from 2019. The data highlights a shift in consumer behavior as reliability and cost of maintenance become critical factors in the decision to purchase a new car.
Factors Driving the Decision to Replace
The survey also revealed key reasons why drivers might reach their breaking point. Reliability (57%) and repair costs (45%) are the primary reasons cited for replacing a vehicle. Other factors include safety concerns (20%), the desire for a better car (20%), and the vehicle’s size being unsuitable (12%).
The survey further notes that 50% of UK car owners have made unexpected trips to the garage in the past year, spending an average of £269 annually on unplanned repairs, in addition to £427 on scheduled maintenance. A significant portion, 40%, are postponing repairs due to cost concerns, leading to issues such as dashboard warning lights and smoking exhausts being ignored.
Stress and the Impact of Unplanned Repairs
Nearly 72% of drivers reported stress related to the possibility of unplanned repairs, and a substantial 90% rely on garages for such repairs. The results underscore the emotional and financial strain that unexpected repair costs can impose on drivers.
Best Used Car Buys for the Breaking Point
For those who have reached their breaking point, CarGurus has compiled a list of the best used cars to consider, each offering peace of mind with substantial warranties:
Best City Car: Suzuki Ignis
Why: Stylish, economical, seats four comfortably, well-equipped.
What you can get: 2022 model with 10,000 miles.
Warranty: Up to seven years and 100,000 miles from first registration.
Best Runaround: Hyundai i20
Why: Affordable, economical, easy to drive.
What you can get: 2023 model with 12,000 miles.
Warranty: Five years, unlimited mileage.
Best for Families: Toyota RAV4 (last generation)
Why: Spacious, reliable, solid all-rounder.
What you can get: 2017 model with 40,000 miles.
Warranty: Up to 10 years and 100,000 miles from first registration.
Best for Large Families: Kia Carens
Why: One of the few seven-seaters in the budget.
What you can get: 2018 model with 40,000 miles.
Warranty: Seven years, 100,000 miles.
Best for Fun: Suzuki Swift Sport
Why: Hot hatch performance, low running costs.
What you can get: 2021 model with 12,000 miles.
Warranty: Up to seven years and 100,000 miles.
Best Electric Car: MG5 EV
Why: Great value, over 200 miles range, family-friendly.
What you can get: 2021 model with 5,000 miles.
Warranty: Seven years and 80,000 miles.
Best for Luxury: Lexus IS
Why: Stylish, hybrid efficiency.
What you can get: 2018 IS 300h model with 65,000 miles.
Warranty: Up to 10 years and 100,000 miles.
Best for Large Loads: Kia Ceed SW Estate
Why: Spacious boot, practical.
What you can get: 2022 model with 30,000 miles.
Warranty: Seven years, 100,000 miles.
Best for Value: Hyundai i30 Tourer
Why: Good all-rounder, ample boot space.
What you can get: 2023 1.0 T-GDi SE Connect Estate with 20,000 miles.
Warranty: Five years, unlimited mileage.
Best for Style: Toyota C-HR
Why: Eye-catching design, reliable hybrid drivetrain.
What you can get: 2019 Icon model with 50,000 miles.
Warranty: Up to 10 years and 100,000 miles.
CarGurus’ survey underscores a critical shift in the UK automotive market. With many drivers reaching their breaking point over relatively minor repair costs, the focus is increasingly on finding vehicles that offer reliability and extended warranties. For those considering an upgrade, the list of top used cars provided by CarGurus offers a range of options to suit various needs and budgets, ensuring that drivers can find peace of mind and avoid the stress of unexpected repairs.
