The AA has warned motorists to always arrange an independent inspection by a mechanic before purchasing a second-hand car to avoid a potential £1,000 repair bill. Hidden faults can easily go unnoticed during a brief test drive, leaving buyers with unexpected costs shortly after purchase.
Hidden faults common among used car buyers
Exclusive data from AA Cars reveals that among 12,201 UK drivers who discovered a hidden fault after buying a used car, 24% said the repair cost more than £500. Furthermore, 9% reported that the cost to fix the issue exceeded £1,000. These figures highlight the financial risk of skipping a professional inspection.
Expert advice on avoiding costly surprises
James Hosking, Managing Director of AA Cars, said: “A car may look clean, drive well on a short test route and appear fairly priced, but that does not always tell the full story. Hidden faults can appear very soon after purchase, and buyers may only realise there is a problem once the car is already on their driveway.”
He added: “Before handing over any money, buyers need to do their homework so they feel confident they understand the car they are buying. A used car can look clean, feel right on a short drive and still have issues that are not immediately obvious, so it is worth taking the time to build as full a picture as possible before making a decision.”
What an independent inspection covers
Paying for an independent car inspection from a mechanic can quickly identify hidden mechanical faults, structural damage, or electrical issues. The assessment typically checks the engine, transmission, exhaust, cooling systems, braking systems, suspension, and steering—all areas that a buyer might miss when viewing a car online or at a dealership.
Benefits of early fault detection
James explained: “An independent inspection can give buyers a clearer view of the car’s condition and help them make a more confident decision. If an inspection highlights a problem, the buyer may be able to ask the seller to fix it, negotiate a lower price or decide the car is not right for them. It’s far better to know about a fault before buying than to discover it once the keys are already in your hand.”
