Used cars worth thinking twice about

01

Daewoo Matiz

1,838 tests · 57,123 avg mi · 57.6% pass

36.0%

The Matiz sits at #1 on this list with a 36.0% outright fail rate despite averaging only 57k miles at the time of test — that gap between mileage and failure rate is the red flag. The two most common failure points are The strength or continuity of the load bearing structure within 30cm of any sub-frame, spring or suspension component mounting (a 'prescribed area') is significantly reduced or inadequately repaired and a defective headlamp lens. Few failures are fixable at the station, meaning most VT30s are carried home.

02

Chevrolet Kalos

4,779 tests · 68,190 avg mi · 59.5% pass

33.7%

The Kalos sits at #2 on this list with a 33.7% outright fail rate despite averaging only 68k miles at the time of test — that gap between mileage and failure rate is the red flag. The two most common failure points are a defective headlamp lens and The strength or continuity of the load bearing structure within 30cm of any sub-frame, spring or suspension component mounting (a 'prescribed area') is significantly reduced or inadequately repaired. With fewer than six in ten cars clearing the test first time, budget for pre-purchase inspection fees before committing.

03

Chevrolet Lacetti

4,042 tests · 77,496 avg mi · 59.7% pass

33.5%

The Lacetti sits at #3 on this list with a 33.5% outright fail rate despite averaging only 77k miles at the time of test — that gap between mileage and failure rate is the red flag. The two most common failure points are The strength or continuity of the load bearing structure within 30cm of any sub-frame, spring or suspension component mounting (a 'prescribed area') is significantly reduced or inadequately repaired and a number-plate lamp out. With fewer than six in ten cars clearing the test first time, budget for pre-purchase inspection fees before committing.

04

Chevrolet Matiz

19,600 tests · 57,480 avg mi · 61.2% pass

32.1%

The Matiz sits at #4 on this list with a 32.1% outright fail rate despite averaging only 57k miles at the time of test — that gap between mileage and failure rate is the red flag. The two most common failure points are a defective headlamp lens and worn suspension bushes. Pre-purchase inspection is worth the cost on any example showing high wear indicators.

05

Chevrolet Aveo

16,728 tests · 72,350 avg mi · 61.8% pass

31.3%

The Aveo sits at #5 on this list with a 31.3% outright fail rate despite averaging only 72k miles at the time of test — that gap between mileage and failure rate is the red flag. The two most common failure points are a number-plate lamp out and worn suspension bushes. Pre-purchase inspection is worth the cost on any example showing high wear indicators.

06

Fiat Seicento

2,717 tests · 58,002 avg mi · 62.4% pass

31.3%

The Seicento sits at #6 on this list with a 31.3% outright fail rate despite averaging only 58k miles at the time of test — that gap between mileage and failure rate is the red flag. The two most common failure points are headlamp aim out of spec and The strength or continuity of the load bearing structure within 30cm of any sub-frame, spring or suspension component mounting (a 'prescribed area') is significantly reduced or inadequately repaired. Few failures are fixable at the station, meaning most VT30s are carried home.

07

Hyundai Accent

3,523 tests · 77,330 avg mi · 63.4% pass

30.8%

The Accent sits at #7 on this list with a 30.8% outright fail rate despite averaging only 77k miles at the time of test — that gap between mileage and failure rate is the red flag. The two most common failure points are a split CV-joint boot and a defective headlamp lens. Pre-purchase inspection is worth the cost on any example showing high wear indicators.

08

Renault Modus

23,193 tests · 78,620 avg mi · 63.3% pass

30.5%

The Modus sits at #8 on this list with a 30.5% outright fail rate despite averaging only 79k miles at the time of test — that gap between mileage and failure rate is the red flag. The two most common failure points are a broken or weak spring and a number-plate lamp out. Pre-purchase inspection is worth the cost on any example showing high wear indicators.