True cost of owning a used car in the UK (2026)
Used cars look cheap on paper but the running costs can catch you out. Older cars need more servicing, fail MOTs more often and may cost more to insure if you're not careful. Run your numbers honestly with this calculator.
Frequently asked questions
What are the hidden costs of buying used?
Older cars need more frequent servicing, replacement consumables (battery, brakes, exhaust) and MOT remedial work. Budget for at least one £400–£800 surprise per year.
Is an extended warranty worth it on a used car?
It depends — for cars with known reliability issues (some BMW, Land Rover, Audi models) a good warranty pays for itself. For a Honda or Toyota the maths often doesn't stack up.
How much does an MOT cost in the UK?
The MOT itself is capped at £54.85 in 2026, but the average remedial work bill is £150–£250. Cars over 10 years old typically need significant work to pass.
How do I check a used car's history?
Run an HPI Check or AutoTrader vehicle history check before buying — it flags outstanding finance, write-offs, mileage discrepancies and stolen status.