Buying a Used Car? How Reliable Are Britain’s Favourites?
Why reliability matters when buying a five-year-old car
More than 313,000 examples of 2021’s ten best-selling models were registered that year. Many of these vehicles are now entering the used-car market at prices that could make them particularly appealing to second-hand buyers.
When new, most came with a manufacturer warranty covering eligible faults and repairs. Five years later, much of that cover has ended, while increasing age and mileage can make mechanical and electrical problems more likely.
That makes reliability especially important for anyone considering one of these models as a used car, as well as existing owners deciding whether to keep their vehicle.
The Volkswagen Golf, MINI Hatch and Nissan Qashqai were among Britain’s ten best-selling cars in 2021, but all three rank relatively poorly in the current MotorEasy Reliability Index.
The picture remains concerning when the analysis is widened to include some of 2021 other favourites within the top 20. The Nissan Juke ranks 233rd, the Ford Focus 235th and the Audi A3 255th out of the 366 models currently assessed.
Looking at real-world reliability data can therefore help buyers identify which models may represent a safer long-term purchase.
What is the MotorEasy Reliability Index?
The MotorEasy Reliability Index uses real-world warranty claims and repair records to assess the dependability of different makes and models.
It considers both:
- How frequently repairs are required
- How much those repairs typically cost
The index includes vehicles between two and 15 years old and draws on more than 200,000 years of combined vehicle ownership data.
A lower ranking indicates a stronger reliability record, while models positioned further down the table have generally experienced more frequent or expensive repairs.
Which popular 2021 models could make the best used buys?
The Toyota Yaris performed best among the popular 2021 models analysed, ranking 49th out of 366 cars. Its combination of widespread availability and a relatively strong reliability record could make it one of the more reassuring used-car choices in the comparison.
The Ford Puma followed in 73rd place, while the Mercedes-Benz A-Class ranked 82nd. Their results show that buyers do not necessarily have to choose between popularity, practicality and comparatively strong reliability.
The A-Class was also the only comparable model to improve its position substantially. It rose from 165th in 2021 to 82nd in 2025.
Most of the other popular models moved down the rankings as they became older and accumulated more mileage.
Before buying any used car, remember that reliability can vary according to its engine, gearbox, mileage and maintenance history. Check the specific make and model using the MotorEasy Reliability Index and arrange a full vehicle history check before committing.
Three popular 2021 models used-car buyers should check carefully
These models may still make good used cars, but their rankings mean buyers should pay particularly close attention to condition, maintenance history and known faults.
Volkswagen Golf 219/366
The Volkswagen Golf has long been regarded as a dependable family car, but its current ranking suggests that ownership may not always be trouble-free.
Problems associated with different generations and specifications can include DSG automatic gearbox faults, touchscreen and infotainment issues, and malfunctioning driver-assistance technology.
This does not mean every Golf will develop a fault. However, anyone buying a used example should look for a complete service history and check that all electrical features and dashboard systems work correctly.
MINI Hatch 258/366
The MINI Hatch combines distinctive styling with a premium feel, but it is among the lowest-ranked models in this comparison.
Depending on the model’s age and specification, potential problems can include timing-chain wear, power-steering faults and electrical issues affecting the central locking, interior lights or infotainment system.
Water entering through worn door or sunroof seals can also cause damp interiors and potentially contribute to electrical problems.
Prospective buyers should listen for unusual engine noises, inspect the interior for signs of moisture and make sure every electrical function works as expected.
Nissan Qashqai 259/366
The Nissan Qashqai is the lowest-ranked of the popular 2021 models assessed.
Reported problems vary by engine and generation but can include turbocharger faults, weak batteries and issues affecting stop-start systems or electronic handbrakes.
Some CVT automatic models can experience jerky acceleration or overheating, while worn rear shock absorbers and water entering around the windscreen are also worth checking for.
Buyers should test the gearbox carefully, check that all electronic systems operate correctly and look for evidence of regular servicing before committing.
Compare the reliability of 2021’s most popular cars
The table below shows how the popular 2021 models included in MotorEasy’s analysis rank today, helping buyers compare their relative reliability before choosing a used car.
Rank | Make & Model | SMMT Registrations (2021) | MotorEasy Reliability Index 2025 (Out of 366) | Where they ranked in 2021 (Out of 247) |
| 1 | Vauxhall Corsa | 40,914 | 171st | 110th |
| 2 | Tesla Model 3 | 34,783 | 104th | N/A |
| 3 | Mini Hatch | 31,792 | 258th | 236th |
| 4 | Mercedes-Benz A-Class | 30,710 | 82nd | 165th |
| 5 | Volkswagen Polo | 30,634 | 146th | 92nd |
| 6 | Volkswagen Golf | 30,240 | 219th | 166th |
| 7 | Nissan Qashqai | 29,922 | 259th | 115th |
| 8 | Ford Puma | 28,697 | 73rd | N/A |
| 9 | Kia Sportage | 27,611 | 193rd | 159th |
| 10 | Toyota Yaris | 27,415 | 49th | 32nd |
Does a low reliability ranking mean you should avoid a car?
Not necessarily. Reliability data shows how a model has performed overall, but it cannot predict exactly what will happen to an individual vehicle.
A lower-ranked model should encourage closer inspection rather than automatically rule the car out. A well-maintained example with a complete service history could provide years of dependable ownership, even if the wider model performs poorly.
Equally, buying a highly ranked model does not guarantee that it will never require an expensive repair.
Before buying any used car, make sure you:
- Check its service and MOT test history
- Confirm that recalls and known faults have been addressed
- Test the engine, gearbox and every electrical feature
- Check for warning lights, unusual noises and signs of water ingress
- Arrange an independent inspection
- Budget for maintenance and unexpected repairs
- Consider warranty cover if the manufacturer’s protection has ended
Will your used car still have a manufacturer warranty?
Before buying a used car, check whether any of its original manufacturer warranty remains and whether that cover can be transferred to a new owner.
Many manufacturers provide three years of cover, so most cars registered in 2021 will already be outside their original warranty period. Some manufacturers offer longer warranties, so check the terms that apply to the particular vehicle you are considering.
A MotorEasy extended warranty can provide protection against eligible mechanical and electrical failures once the manufacturer’s warranty ends. Cover includes parts, labour and diagnostics, with access to a UK-wide network of approved garages.
Before choosing your next used car, check its MotorEasy Reliability Index score to understand its potential repair frequency and costs. If its original cover has ended, you can also get a MotorEasy warranty quote and explore your available protection options.
