A shocking three quarters of the used cars inspected by the RAC have faults that would cause the car to fail an MOT and a further one in three have potentially dangerous or illegal faults, according to the motoring organisation.

For those looking to buy a used car this should be a stark warning, as the financial cost of fixing a faulty second hand car could prove to be a heavy burden – let alone the danger of driving a car that is unroadworthy.

Nicola Johnson, Manager of RAC Inspections explains: “Individuals looking for a used car bargain are entering a minefield and not everyone has either the right level of knowledge to know what to look for, or a mechanically minded friend or family member that they can call upon to help.  The level of issues we have found with used cars is concerning, with half of the vehicles we checked having more than 10 faults. Even if they weren’t a risk to motorists’ safety, over 80 per cent of those with faults would cost the new owner more than £200 to fix.”

The most common faults found by RAC engineers were worn or damaged tyres, many of which were illegal.  44 per cent had faulty steering and/or suspension, making driving risky, particularly in poor weather conditions.  A further 42 per cent had fluid leakages, 39 per cent had corroded or worn brake discs and countless more had damaged exteriors, such as  cracked windows and chipped paintwork.

“These are disturbing figures highlighting the reality that driving a car with a fault, no matter how small, could potentially increase the likelihood of having an accident or emergency breakdown. The cost both emotionally and financially can be significant.  It is vital that used car buyers know what to look for, both under the bonnet and externally.  Sadly, and more often than not, dangerous faults can only easily be spotted by a trained eye,” adds Nicola Johnson.

Cars are designed to react in a certain way in a crash that ensures the occupants are protected as much as possible. Any defects (damage or excessive wear) that affect the structural integrity of the vehicle will impair the cars ability to protect the passengers inside.  Drivers of second hand cars are never as safe as they think they are.

Concludes Nicola Johnson, “Having recently bought a four year old car, it was easy to be overwhelmed by its looks and speed, and treat it as perfect and new.  Before I knew it, I had formed an emotional attachment.  Having its faults and defects pointed out by an unbiased eye was sobering, and made me approach the sale much more sensibly. I bought the car, but am now wise to potential future expenses that I am likely to incur over the next 12-18 months.”