Most reliable second-hand cars on the UK market including Mini, Ford, Toyota and more - full list

Felix Reeves

By Felix Reeves


Published: 18/10/2025

- 06:00

Several popular Japanese models are included on the list of most reliable used vehicles

New data has found that motorists could save hundreds of pounds in repair costs when opting for a more reliable second-hand vehicle.

Research shows that British drivers are keeping their cars on the road for longer, with the average car now close to 10 years old.


This is the oldest figure on record, showing that the majority of motorists are sticking with their cars until they have the switch.

The latest Reliability Index data shows that the Toyota Yaris is the most reliable car on UK roads in the eight to 12 year age range.

The Yaris, which has been a staple on UK roads for well over a decade, scored an impressive 93.6 out of 100.

The Index ranks vehicles by overall dependability, as well as the average and most expensive repair price.

Toyota's supermini had an average repair cost of £651, which ranks among the lower costs for vehicles in the 8-12 year bracket, and a highest repair cost of £2,312.

Another Japanese model ranked in second place, with the Honda Civic receiving a score of 93.0.

People looking at a car dealership and a set of car keys

Drivers are keeping their cars for longer periods of time, according to new data

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PA

Japanese manufacturers are often praised for their focus on reliability and efficiency, with a Japanese-built vehicle placing in six of the 10 top positions.

Antony Diggins, managing director at Warrantywise, said: "With cars on the road for longer than ever before, our data reveals some surprising insights about which models truly deliver long-term value.

"While Toyota and Honda continue to dominate for reliability, what's particularly striking is how repair costs can vary dramatically even among dependable vehicles.

"This transparency is crucial as drivers navigate an increasingly complex used car market."

The Toyota Yaris

The Toyota Yaris

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TOYOTA

Although the Mitsubishi Outlander placed in fifth place with an impressive score of 85.9, it had the most expensive highest repair price request at a staggering £9,531.

Certain cars, like the Outlander, will be more reliable and break down less. However, in the event that the car does have a fault, it can be extremely expensive.

While cars are getting more technologically advanced and reliable, experts have pointed out that the cost of living crisis is still having a huge impact on motorists and their ability to buy new cars.

Registrations of new vehicles have struggled to recover since the pandemic, according to the latest data from the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

The Mitsubishi OutlanderThe Mitsubishi Outlander had the most expensive maximum repair cost | MITSUBISHI

Most reliable cars (between eight and 12 years old) and the average repair cost

1. Toyota Yaris - £651

2. Honda Civic - £778

3. Honda CR-V - £1,027

4. Suzuki Swift - £827

5. Mitsubishi Outlander - £1,201

6. Toyota Aygo - £399

7. Seat Ibiza - £758

8. Ford Mondeo - £1,047

9. Renault Clio - £693

=10. Ford KA - £572

=10. Citroen C1 - £800

=10. Mini Hatchback - £1,095