Used car buying guide
Cheap cars with low maintenance costs in the UK
Some used cars are known for being simpler and cheaper to maintain, but the actual cost depends on how the individual car has been looked after.
Use this guide to shortlist low-maintenance options, then check the exact registration before viewing, negotiating or paying a deposit.
Found a low-maintenance car?
Move from your shortlist to the history and available buyer-risk signals for the actual car.
Cheap cars with low maintenance costs
These models are often considered lower-risk from a maintenance point of view, but the safest choice is still the individual car with the best history and condition.
Toyota Yaris
A sensible low-maintenance option if well looked after, but still check servicing, tyres and MOT history.
Honda Jazz
Often associated with careful ownership, but check brakes, suspension and age-related advisories.
Hyundai i10
A simple small car that can be cheap to maintain, but still check servicing and MOT patterns.
Kia Picanto
A compact option with potentially low maintenance costs, but condition matters more than model reputation.
Toyota Corolla
A practical and sensible choice, but still check tyres, brakes and servicing carefully.
Ford Fiesta
Widely available and affordable to repair, but check clutch wear, suspension and repeated advisories.
Maintenance cost depends on the individual car
Even cars known for reliability can become expensive if they have been poorly maintained. MOT history and servicing records are often more important than model reputation.
- Check MOT history before viewing
- Look for repeated advisories
- Ask for service and repair records
- Compare price with likely repair costs
Buying mistakes to avoid
Do not assume a “reliable” car will automatically be cheap to run. A neglected example can cost more than a well-maintained alternative from a less “reliable” brand.
Before buying, check whether the MOT history shows repeat warnings, whether issues were repaired and whether the seller can justify the condition.
Useful next steps
Found one you like? Check it before you buy it.
Move from your shortlist to the history and available buyer-risk signals for the actual car.