The average repair cost of the UK’s 10 most popular vehicles last year increased by around 20% compared to 2023, new research has found.
Using data from the latest SMMT car parc analysis, Warrantywise compared figures from 2023 to 2024 inclusive, across the top 10 vehicles. The findings highlight that repair costs are, on average, around 20% more expensive than the previous year, and in in some instances nearly 30% more.
Amongst the models most impacted by the average repair cost hike, is the Ford Fiesta. This was the most popular car in the UK last year, with most UK drivers owning one. However, as it is now discontinued, many models are reliant on the independent aftermarket for their servicing and repairs.
The average cost has surged by £228, a 25% increase year on year. While this rise impacts more drivers, it is not the highest percentage increase. That goes to the Vauxhall Astra, which has seen drivers pay £234 more on average, a 28% rise.
Best car for repair cost
On the other end of the spectrum, the Volkswagen Polo has been least impacted, earning the ‘Lowest Increase in Average Repair Cost Award’ with a modest rise of just 3%, equating to £22.
“Our latest Reliability Index data from 2024 reveals some key trends for car owners to be aware of,” said Antony Diggins, Managing Director of Warrantywise. “With repair costs continuing to rise, it is something all motorists will need to consider, especially given the wider economic challenges and inflation in the UK. Looking at the most popular choice of used car from 2024 to 2025, our reliability data highlights the importance of making informed decisions when buying second-hand.”
These rising repair costs come at a time when financial matters in the UK are in the spotlight. Despite the Consumer Prices Index (CPI) experiencing a significant decline, dropping from an annual rate of 7.3% in 2023 to 2.5% in December 2024, it seems that costs for vehicles are not tracking in line with this.
Average repair cost of top 10 UK cars
| Make | Model | Average repair cost 2023 | Average repair cost 2024 | Percentage increase | |
| 1 | Ford | Fiesta | £925 | £1,159 | 25% |
| 2 | Vauxhall | Corsa | £604 | £727 | 20% |
| 3 | Volkswagen | Golf | £1,011 | £1,200 | 18% |
| 4 | Ford | Focus | £1,158 | £1,327 | 15% |
| 5 | BMW | 3 Series | £1,307 | £1,443 | 10% |
| 6 | Volkswagen | Polo | £791 | £813 | 3% |
| 7 | Vauxhall | Astra | £819 | £1,047 | 28% |
| 8 | MINI | MINI | No reported data | ||
| 9 | Nissan | Qashqai | £1,099 | £1,293 | 18% |
| 10 | BMW | 1 series | Not on previous list | £1,294 | Unable to compare based on parameters |
