- Reliability Index score out of 100
- 68
- Average repair cost
- £604
- Most regular repair request
- Electrical
- Average age at repair
- 8 years
- Average mileage at repair
- 63,548 miles
The UK’s 2nd most popular used car
According to the SMMT [1], The Vauxhall Corsa is the UK’s second most popular used car, with a total of 237,705 sales taking place in 2023. This won’t come as a shock to many, as the Corsa has established itself as a trusted motor.
But just how reliable is it? To find out, we scored the Corsa against our own Reliability Index criteria. With a very credible score of 68 out of 100, the Corsa has scored well, but what does that mean for drivers?
What does the Reliability Index data say?
According to our data, the most regular Vauxhall Corsa requested repair is for the Electrical System. The electrical system comprises a storage battery, generator, starting (cranking) motor, lighting system, ignition system, and various accessories and controls. Cars are becoming increasingly advanced technologically. While technology can improve reliability, it also introduces more complex systems that may require specialised maintenance and repair, potentially increasing maintenance costs over time.
What’s the average mileage of a Vauxhall Corsa when a fault occurs?
The Reliability Index data also shows that the average Vauxhall Corsa mileage at the time of repairs was 63,548 miles. This may not seem high but, most cars work efficiently until the 50,000 to 80,000 miles mark [2]. A car with high mileage may be perceived as less reliable, as it has been subjected to more use and potential stress on its mechanical and electrical parts.
What is the average age of a Vauxhall Corsa when a fault occurs?
Our reliability data shows that, on average, Corsa’s requiring repairs are around 8 years old. While this might seem relatively old to some, it’s important to note that the average age of cars in the UK is now 10 years, as per recent figures from the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA).
This increase in average vehicle age is due to supply chain disruptions and a shortage of new cars following the pandemic. As a result, drivers are holding onto their cars for longer periods. Given the popularity of the Vauxhall Corsa, it’s prudent to anticipate potential faults. Be sure to budget effectively for maintenance and repairs, especially if you currently own or are considering purchasing one. You may wish to consider an extended warranty to help protect you from sudden unexpected repair costs.
What are the running costs of the Vauxhall Corsa?
The Vauxhall Corsa is a hatchback, meaning it’s one of the most affordable car types. In terms of miles per gallon, the Corsa can achieve an average of 51 – 63 miles. You can get a used Vauxhall Corsa from around £2,800 [3], which is a reasonable starting point. Prices will vary though, depending on mileage, age, and overall condition. Most Corsa models sit in insurance groups 4 – 8, so there’s a good chance you could get a reasonable deal. But again, prices will vary depending on factors like your age, location, and driving experience.
The Vauxhall Corsa is a fantastic car – it’s affordable, fun to drive, and built to last. Although, no car is resistant to faults. Our data found that the average repair request for a Vauxhall Corsa is £604, and the highest Corsa repair request we’ve received is £7,692!
If you are looking to purchase a second-hand Corsa, and as highlighted in the SMMT data many people are, you might want to consider protecting yourself with an extended warranty for peace of mind.
How practical is the Corsa?
It’s not hard to understand why the Vauxhall Corsa is such a popular car. It’s nice to drive and very town/city friendly. In terms of cabin space, you get as much as you’d expect from a small hatchback. Similarly, in terms of boot space, the Corsa’s offering isn’t huge, but there’s plenty of room to pack away your weekly shop. However, its small size can be a huge benefit when trying to navigate twisty roads or manoeuvre into tight parking spots.
An extended warranty can be a safety net for your Corsa
Vauxhall owners are looking to Warrantywise to help protect them from unexpected repair costs. Don’t forget you’ll get unlimited repairs, emergency breakdown, car hire, onward travel and a UK call centre all as standard*. Check out our extended warranties for your Vauxhall.
Reliability ratings for the 10 most popular cars in the UK
These are the most popular cars as purchased by you in 2023 (source SMMT top 10 used car sales 2023). We’ve given each car a reliability rating out of 100 along with key reliability insights such as average repair cost, most expensive repair request and average age at repair. Please note, since the SMMT does not report on MINI models, we cannot provide model-specific reliability data.
Source
(4) Car Ignition Inspection, Repair & Replacement Cost Guide – Clickmechanic
(5) How Much Does It Cost to Replace an Alternator? Who Can Fix My Car
(6) UK’s average car age is 10 years old, new report finds. Garage Wire
Warrantywise Reliability Index Scoring and Data: Rank is measured by repair request frequency, average vehicle age at the time of fault, average mileage and average labour time, from 1 January 2020 to 30 September 2023, and includes vehicles between three and ten years old where there are a minimum of 250 cars on plan. 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. 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.
Warranty FAQ’s.
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A used car warranty is an agreement that could contribute towards the cost of repairing certain mechanical or electrical failures. New cars usually come with a manufacturer’s warranty for a set period, and once this ends, many drivers choose an extended car warranty to help manage unexpected repair costs.
Warranty plans vary, so check the plan documentation carefully for listed components, exclusions, repair limits and any conditions you need to follow.
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A discretionary warranty means each repair request is assessed individually, based on its particular circumstances rather than relying on automated systems. Warrantywise considers the cause of the failure, the information and supporting evidence provided, and the conditions of your warranty plan. This allows the full context of each request to be considered before a decision is made.
If you disagree with a decision, you can request a review through Warrantywise’s adjudication process.
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You may want to consider an extended car warranty when your manufacturer’s warranty ends. A warranty plan can help you manage the cost of mechanical or electrical repairs, subject to the plan and individual assessment of each repair request.
Depending on the plan you choose, add-ons such as breakdown recovery, car hire or onward travel may also be available. Check the plan documentation carefully to understand its eligibility requirements, repair limits, exclusions and conditions.
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The warranty plan options available to you will depend on factors such as your vehicle’s age and mileage. When you request a quote, Warrantywise uses the vehicle details you provide to identify a suitable plan level. You can then tailor selected features and limits to reflect your needs and budget.
Before choosing, compare the eligible components, repair contribution limits, exclusions and additional benefits shown in the plan documentation. If you need help understanding your options, speak to the Warrantywise team on 0800 001 4990.
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Yes. You can use a Warrantywise Authorised Repairer or another VAT-registered garage, provided the repair process in your plan documentation is followed.
If you choose an Authorised Repairer, Warrantywise will normally arrange payment of the agreed repair contribution directly with the garage. If you use your own garage, check that the labour rate is within the limit shown on your plan schedule. You may need to pay the garage first and then provide the required documentation for reimbursement of the agreed amount.
Always obtain written authorisation from Warrantywise before any repair work begins. You will be responsible for costs that have not been authorised or exceed your plan limits.
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Not always. If your car has an up-to-date service history showing that its most recent service was completed in line with the manufacturer’s recommended schedule, you may not need to service it before your Warrantywise plan starts.
If you cannot provide evidence that the last service was completed when required, you will need to arrange a service in accordance with the manufacturer’s recommendations within 14 days. You must also continue to follow the recommended servicing schedule throughout the plan and keep your service records.
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Your car needs to be serviced in line with the manufacturer’s recommended schedule throughout your Warrantywise plan. Regular servicing helps keep the vehicle properly maintained, and provides evidence that the vehicle has been serviced in line with the plan requirements when a repair request is assessed. Keep your service invoices and records, as Warrantywise may ask to see them.
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A missed service does not necessarily mean you cannot take out a Warrantywise plan. Before the plan can take effect, the vehicle’s servicing must be brought up to date in line with the manufacturer’s recommendations, including any recommended upkeep.
You will need to provide evidence that the required service and any associated work have been completed. When buying a used car, it’s always recommended to check the service history carefully.
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N, you don’t have to have a car inspected before purchasing a plan.
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Our warranties are available in lengths to suit your needs. From monthly warranties to 12, 24 or 36 month warranties.
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You can choose to pay for your warranty in full, over 4 month or PAYG (monthly pay as you go).
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All Warrantywise plans come with a no question 14 day money back guarantee. You can cancel the plan at any time within the first 14 days and providing you have not requested that we meet the cost of any repairs, we will cancel the plan and refund your payment without deduction.
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We always recommend using one of our Approved Repairers. These repair facilities undergo careful monitoring to guarantee the best workmanship and service quality. However, we understand that you may have a preferred garage in mind. If that’s the case, please ensure they are VAT registered and follow our provided ‘Repairs Procedure’ outlined in the plan booklet. It’s also crucial to verify that their labor rate aligns with your warranty schedule.
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Our repairs office hours are 8.30am-5.00pm Monday – Friday (except bank holidays). If you breakdown out of hours, please phone our 24/7 breakdown service on 0800 054 2174. For full details on what to do with regards to repairs out of hours, please refer to your plan book.
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It is important to stop driving the vehicle immediately, and call our repairs team on 01254 648 212. The lines are open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm and Saturday 9am to 12pm. In the case of an emergency breakdown out of hours, please call 0800 054 2174. If you continue to drive after you suspect a fault, it could affect your warranty. Rest assured, we are here to assist you throughout the process.
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- Electrical parts are all the components in your car that run using electricity, like sensors, control units, and dashboard displays.
- Common electrical items covered include:
- Engine control units (ECUs), body control modules
- Sensors (parking, ABS, etc.)
- Lights and indicators
- Electric windows, switches, and locks
- Dashboard displays and warning lights
- In-car entertainment systems (radio, touchscreen, sat nav)
- Air conditioning controls and motors
- Alternator, starter motor, and other charging system components
What electrical components may NOT be included?
- Batteries, fuses, and bulbs (Items that wear out over time)
- Electrical faults caused by accidents or modifications
For full details, including any components excluded or listed under additions, please refer to your plan booklet.
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- Mechanical parts are the components in a car that move or help other things move. They rely on physical motion or force to work.
- The most important mechanical parts include:
- Engine (parts like pistons, crankshaft, cylinder head)
- Gearbox and transmission (all gears and moving parts inside)
- Clutch system (pedal, cable, master/slave cylinder)
- Drive train (shafts, universal joints, bearings)
- Differential (crown wheel and pinion gears)
- Timing belts, chains, and tensioners
- Suspension (shock absorbers, springs)
- Steering (rack, pumps, joints)
- Brakes (callipers, master cylinder, brake servo)
- Fuel system (fuel pump, injectors)
- Warrantywise protects thousands of mechanical parts as standard, helping you budget for unexpected repairs.
- Parts that wear out naturally, such as tyres, brake pads, and clutches from regular use, are NOT part of the warranty plan.
- Pre-Existing Faults: Issues or damage that existed before the warranty started are excluded or result from a lack of proper servicing.
For full details, including any items excluded or listed under additions, please refer to your plan booklet.
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If, during a journey, your Vehicle suffers a Breakdown within Great Britain you can telephone 0844 693 1910 (24h service) and we will arrange for an engineer to attend. If your Vehicle suffers a breakdown whilst in the European Union, you will need to make your own recovery arrangements and submit a repair request under the warranty.
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If your repair is approved and you need a hire car, because your vehicle is off the road, we may reimburse you for up 10 days for car hire, please refer to the terms of your warranty for details.
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If you purchased your warranty directly from Warrantywise, then yes. If you sell your car, you can transfer the remainder of your warranty to your new vehicle. Depending on the make, age and mileage of your new car additional charges may apply. Call our admin team on 0800 001 4990 for full details.
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We take complaints very seriously and all complaints are thoroughly investigated by our Customer Relations Team. Our commitment to customer satisfaction means that if you are dissatisfied with the initial response, we have an escalation process in place to address your concerns further. We value your feedback and strive to continuously improve our services, ensuring that your experience with Warrantywise is of the highest standard. For more information on the escalation process, please refer to our complaints page, and if we cannot resolve your complaint between us, you can refer it to Edd China for consideration in his role as expert adjudicator.
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All calls are answered directly from our UK offices by our knowledgeable and experienced customer advice teams. We take pride in providing exceptional customer service and ensuring that your enquiries and concerns are addressed promptly and efficiently. Our dedicated teams are here to assist you with any questions you may have, offering expert guidance and support.
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Edd China fulfils the role of expert adjudicator, this means he has the final say over any dispute that we cannot resolve between us, subject of course to your statutory rights.
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Quentin Willson was instrumental in working with Warrantywise from 2007 to 2023 to develop our extended warranty plans to ensure they are clear, transparent and comprehensive. In July 2023, he passed over the responsibility of expert adjudicator to Edd China who will use his ‘discretion’ to ensure a fair and equitable resolution on a case-by-case basis.