Top ten most popular used cars as sales of second-hand vehicles soar.

• The demand for used cars is at a five-year high with nearly two million used vehicles finding in Q1 2024 according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT)
• With the rising cost of living, buying a trusted, and reliable used car, is crucial to avoid unexpected repair bills  
• Leading aftermarket warranty provider, Warrantywise, gives reliability ratings to the top ten most popular used cars using its Reliability Index 
• Not only is the Ford Fiesta the most popular used car sold, but of the top ten, it’s also the most reliable, with an overall Warrantywise score of 70/100 
• The Reliability Index, showcasing the Ford Fiesta’s ratings, along with the rest of the top ten most popular used cars in the UK, is available to view here 
• With a surge in used car sales and the increasing cost of living, the significance of a comprehensive warranty for consumer peace of mind has never been higher 
• Warrantywise is consistently rated highly for its transparent repair request process and exceptional customer-first service, as seen on its Excellent Trustpilot rating 

The used car market is at a five-year high, according to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), with nearly two million used vehicles finding new homes in Q1 2024*. In a bid to help consumers make the wise choice when it comes to buying their next used car, leading aftermarket car warranty provider, Warrantywise, has released data on the best and worst performers on the list, in an all-new Reliability Index rating, launched today.  

The Ford Fiesta not only clinched the title of the most popular used car sold in the first quarter of 2024, as recognised by the SMMT, but it also emerged as the most reliable, according to Warrantywise’s Reliability Index. Earlier this year, Warrantywise also revealed that the Ford Fiesta was the most loved and popular vehicle it had on cover, further solidifying its dominance in the used car market. Renowned for its reliability scoring, Warrantywise further commends the Ford Fiesta’s exceptional performance on its coveted Reliability Index, substantiating its enduring appeal among consumers as evidenced by the high number of warranties sold. 

The Reliability Index, now hosted on its own microsite – warrantywise.co.uk/reliability-index – further underscores the Ford Fiesta’s reputation for durability, boasting an impressive overall score of 70/100**. Alongside its recent recognition as the most popular choice among Warrantywise customers, the Ford Fiesta’s above-average reliability is evident in its low average repair cost (£925***) and older average age at the time of requested repairs (eight years), providing consumers with continued peace of mind in an ongoing unpredictable market. 

As the UK’s used car market continues its robust growth trajectory, with transactions soaring by 6.5 per cent in the first quarter of 2024 alone*, drivers are increasingly turning to trusted used cars like the Ford Fiesta. In the face of economic challenges and a surge in used car sales, ensuring the reliability of one’s vehicle is paramount. Plus, with unexpected repairs and maintenance costs becoming an increasing concern for car owners, safeguarding the investment of a car with a comprehensive warranty is more important than ever. 

Lawrence Whittaker, CEO of Warrantywise, said: “It’s great to see not only the used car market at a five-year high, but also the Ford Fiesta to top yet another chart. It has [the Ford Fiesta] always been a favourite among used car buyers, and recent insight only reinforces its status as a trusted option when looking for a used car.  

“The latest figures from the SMMT [of Q1 2024 most popular used cars sold] underscore the unique challenges we face today. We’re still navigating the aftermath of the pandemic and grappling with an economic downturn that sees costs escalating at every turn. This has led to a surge in demand for used cars as consumers opt for more budget-friendly options over purchasing new vehicles. Cars like the beloved Ford Fiesta.  

“Many of the used cars are sold at independent dealers, rather than main dealerships, or fall outside the manufacturer’s warranty coverage. I cannot stress enough how important it is to ensure that these vehicles are protected with a used car warranty to prevent unexpected bills.” 

Top ten most popular models in Q1 2024 according to the SMMT with the Reliability Index ranking from Warrantywise

As consumer priorities continue to shift, the combination of popularity and reliability continues to position the Ford Fiesta as a standout option in the used car market. Paired with a warranty, drivers can confidently navigate the challenges of used vehicle ownership, safeguarding their investment and maintaining financial stability in uncertain times. Committed to offering comprehensive and cost-effective warranty solutions, Warrantywise specialises in extended automotive warranties, and has sold over one million plans since its inception in 2000. With a focus on delivering exceptional customer service, it consistently earns high ratings, as seen on its Excellent Trustpilot score.  

Warrantywise’s annual Reliability Index stands as a go-to resource for both automotive professionals and consumers alike. Now with its dedicated hosting site – The Reliability Index – accessing comprehensive data on vehicle reliability has never been easier. 

Sources and dislaimers

* SMMT – Used car market hits five-year high  

** Rank is measured by repair request frequency, average vehicle age at time of fault, average mileage and average labour time, from 1 January 2020 – 30 September 2023 

*** Average repair costs collated over a period between 1 January 2020 and 30 September 2023. Since the sample was selected, Warrantywise has seen a significant rise in the price of labour and parts, which will impact future repair costs 

**** Please note, the SMMT does not report on MINI models, and so Warrantywise cannot provide model-specific reliability data 

All data used is from Warrantywise’s proprietary internal research. Warrantywise believes the information contained herein to be accurate at the time of release. However, the company may upload new or updated information if required and assumes that it is not liable for the accuracy of any information interpreted and used by the reader