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Reviews

Most reliable used cars 2013

The best cars by segment

Based on 15 million inspections performed over the last two years, the DEKRA experts once again determined the most reliable and unreliable amongst the used cars on Germany's streets in 2013.

Cars were evaluated in three categories according to their mileage: 0 to 50.000km, 50.000 to 100.000km and 100.000 to 150.000km. The experts only considered inspection-relevant problems, not the defects caused by neglect by the owner, such as worn tires for example.

The DEKRA report, based on such a large amount of data, is a helpful indicator for anyone who needs some guidance while looking for a reliable used car.

Browse our gallery below, to see which models performed best according to segment:

Subcompact class - Audi A1

According to the DEKRA report, Audi A1 leads the segment of small used cars.

The only notable problems were altered headlights, besides that, the German subcompact convinces with reliable performance beyond the 100.000 km mark.

Compact class - Ford Focus

With its latest generation just launched in 2011, the Ford Focus continues to convince its clients with its consistent reliability. But also the older generations perform above-average, the only problems that occur are wear on the break system, leaking/oily shock absorbers and defects on the rear axle bearing.

Midsize class - BMW 3-Series

A new series just launched, and with the fifth generation leading the reliability rankings, the BMW 3-Series establishes its lead in the midsize segment. Rare problems are issues with the parking brake, cars with wide tires might have problems on the hydaulic power steering. For Coupé and Cabrio versions, DEKRA adivses to ckeck the door seal of the frameless windows.

Executive class - Mercedes-Benz E-Class

Mercedes-Benz once again proofs its leadership with the E-Class when it comes to up-segment reliability. DEKRA renders the model almost flawless, just recommends second-hand buyers to take a closer look at the brakes and settings of the low beam headlights before sealing the deal.

Sportscars - BMW Z4

Especially the second generation BMW Z4 convnices with almost care-free driving pleasure.

The DEKRA-experts were impressed and awarded this model the title "Vehicle of the Year 2013".

SUVs - BMW X1

BMW's third model leading a segment is the X1. The smallest SUV in the bavarian portfolio outperforms all competitors and looks like a reliable option for a second-hand bargain.

MPVs - Ford C-Max

Families looking for a used van should try to get their hands on a Ford C-MAX. The model performs above average, even with high mileage, issues are usually related with wear. DEKRA advises to take a closer look at suspensions. Also the emission values can be higher on older vehicles.

Transporter - Volkswagen Crafter

The VW Crafter defends its leadership in the transporteer segment and convinces the experts with its above-average performance in terms of reliability. Smaller defects that occur are high emission values and problems with the on-board diagnostic system, an oily differential and windscreens damaged by stones.