UK motorists are facing a steep rise in car repair bills.

New data reveals that the average repair cost for the country’s most popular used vehicles has soared by 20% over the last year.

The findings, published by Warrantywise, come amid ongoing financial pressures for UK households.

While headline inflation rates have dropped, the cost of living crisis continues, with inflation set to rise again due to Trump’s tariff war and recent government budget decisions that affect business costs.

Top of the pops

The analysis, based on repair data from the top ten most sold used cars in 2024 (as reported by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, SMMT), shows that drivers are now paying hundreds of pounds more for vehicle repairs than they were just a year ago.

Leading the list of sharpest increases is the much-loved Ford Fiesta, which not only topped the charts as the UK’s most popular used car but also saw average repair costs jump by £228.

This represents a 25% rise from £925 in 2023 to £1,159 in 2024.

Close behind is the Vauxhall Astra, which experienced a 28% increase, climbing from £819 to £1,047 in just 12 months.

In contrast, the Volkswagen Polo emerged as the least impacted, with only a modest 3% increase (£22), earning what Warrantywise dubbed the “Lowest Increase in Average Repair Cost Award.”

Challenging times

Antony Diggins, Managing Director of Warrantywise, commented: “Our latest Reliability Index data from 2024 reveals some key trends for car owners to be aware of. With repair costs continuing to rise, it’s something all motorists need to consider – especially given the broader economic challenges and inflation. Even as the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) fell from 7.3% in 2023 to 2.5% in December 2024, car repair prices are bucking the trend.”

Diggins emphasised the importance of checking vehicle reliability before purchasing a used car and noted that even well-maintained models can develop faults over time.

“Cars are complex machines – no model is entirely immune to breakdowns. Warrantywise’s Reliability Index gives a clear, real-world picture of what to expect.”

Small sizes, big bills

Other popular models also saw notable increases.

Following the Fiesta, a popular choice for learners and novice drivers, the Vauxhall Corsa now costs £727 to repair on average, a 20% rise.

Meanwhile, the Volkswagen Golf has increased by 18% to £1,200.

The Ford Focus saw a 15% hike, and the BMW 3 Series rose by 10%.

While newer entries such as the BMW 1 Series had no comparative data from the previous year, it is noted that they already carry a high average repair cost of £1,294.

Purchasing power

The surge in repair costs is particularly concerning for drivers whose vehicles are out of warranty, leaving them to shoulder the full expense of breakdowns or part replacements.

Warrantywise is urging used car buyers to consider extended warranties and do their research using tools like their Reliability Index before making a purchase.

The company’s research highlights that repair trends vary widely across makes and models, and planning ahead can help mitigate unexpected costs.

For more information on repair cost trends and used vehicle reliability, visit www.warrantywise.co.uk.