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Will a second hand car break down more often?
Dear Chris, I’m considering buying a second-hand Peugeot 207. But does buying a second-hand car mean it’s more likely to break down?
Emma King, via email on 30 March 2011
Our breakdown expert says…
It is thought that second-hand vehicles are, by their very nature, more likely to break down. But even brand new cars break down, which is why comprehensive breakdown cover is so important for both old and new cars.
The benefits of breakdown insurance
Three factors play a crucial role in determining a second-hand car’s likelihood of breaking down:
- Mileage - A car with 150,000 miles on the clock could break down more often than one with just 50,000 miles
- Maintenance - If the vehicle’s been well cared for then it should, in theory, be less likely to break down
- Make and model - Various online reliability studies have shown how some makes and models of car break down more frequently than others. Thankfully, the Peugeot 207 was named Europe’s most reliable car in a recent reliability study commissioned by vehicle warranty firm Warranty Direct.
The benefits of breakdown insurance
The cost of repairing a breakdown always varies because it’s totally dependant on the problem itself.
However, Warranty Direct’s report also discovered that certain makes and model of car cost more on average than others to repair.
The Peugeot 207, for example, has an average repair cost of £331.92. But the Renault Clio - another highly reliable car - has an average repair bill of just £173.40.
It’s a good job you aren’t buying a used Mercedes Benz SL though, because not only is the car Europe’s least reliable but, with an average repair bill of £742.10, one of the most expensive to maintain.
The key to avoiding an expensive breakdown repair bill is to carefully compare breakdown deals online, as this will help you find packages tailored to your car and driving habits. Breakdown deals including free repair of some parts are also available.
Popular Breakdown Deals
| Company | Package Name | From | Roadside repair | Online Discount | Tow to nearest garage |
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