Asger Risom
A veteran mechanic has revealed the models he warns buyers to avoid in the UK’s surging used car market – with two of Britain’s best-known brands taking a serious hit.
A veteran mechanic has revealed the models he warns buyers to avoid in the UK’s surging used car market – with two of Britain’s best-known brands taking a serious hit.
Expert Warns on Unreliable Used Models
Mechanic and author James Goodhand has spoken out about which used cars he believes UK buyers should avoid—highlighting reliability issues and high repair costs.
Range Rover Takes a Hit
Goodhand was scathing about used Range Rovers, describing ownership as “tearing up fifty-pound notes.” Despite low second-hand prices, he warns they carry steep maintenance costs.
“Still a £100k Car”
He stressed that even a used Range Rover bought for £25,000 has the running costs of a £100,000 luxury vehicle—and an unreliable one at that.
Used Fords Under Fire
Ford models also came under criticism, particularly those with “wet belt” engines. Goodhand warned of catastrophic failures leading to repair bills up to £2,000.
Diesel Filter Woes
Beyond engine concerns, Ford’s diesel cars reportedly suffer from frequent particulate filter problems, further raising questions about long-term dependability.
A Voice of Praise for the Mk1 Focus
In contrast, mechanic Paul Lucas praised the older Mk1 Ford Focus as a solid used buy, citing its simplicity and old-school engineering.
Simplicity Equals Reliability
Lucas said his 20-year-old Focus has proven ultra-reliable, devoid of complex electronics and built in an era before unnecessary features became standard.
Used EV Market on the Rise
As combustion engine reliability faces scrutiny, demand for used electric vehicles is soaring. Sales of second-hand EVs jumped 57.4% in 2024, per SMMT data.
A Market in Transition
With electrified vehicles making up 7.7% of used car sales and growing, the used car market is rapidly shifting—leaving some older models behind.
