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Evaldas Zabitis

A car with sharp looks or a bit of poke under the bonnet is always tempting when you're searching for a new set of wheels. But for most buyers in Ireland, the number one priority is reliability. As a car gets older, the likelihood of it developing frustrating faults goes up. A reliable motor is your best defence against the sting of unexpected garage bills and the sheer inconvenience of a breakdown when you least expect it.

Don't risk your safety - check it with carVertical first

Looks can be deceiving!

Car reliability is simply a measure of a vehicle's ability to perform its job consistently over time with as few mechanical hiccups as possible.

But it's not just about how well the car was built in the factory. A huge part of a car’s current condition comes down to its past. 

 by its previous owners is a massive factor in its long-term health

, and that’s a story you can’t always see at a glance.

Get a carVertical history report to learn about the car’s past

 about its history. The more kilometres on the clock, the more life it's lived, and the greater the risk of essential parts simply being worn out from use.

Mileage is often faked to increase a car’s value

, a practice known as "clocking". This is where a 

 shines. Our reports analyse mileage records from various sources, making it easy to spot potential rollbacks and avoid overpaying for a car with a hidden past.

 is another major reason why used cars can become unreliable money pits. Structural damage, shoddy electrical repairs, or a slightly bent driveshaft can all compromise a car's longevity and safety, leading to unexpected repairs down the line. In fact, over 

40% of cars checked on carVertical have damage records.

 Many sellers try to hide this history, and some may not even be aware of it themselves.

For example, look at the excerpt from the report below – the car shows visible signs of past damage.

And here’s the same car 6 months later:

Beyond mileage and damage, our reports reveal other crucial information for any used car buyer. You can check for outstanding finance, view registration and NCT dates, see ownership history, and more. It’s the single best tool for understanding a car’s true story before you commit.

A stamped service book or a folder full of receipts is a golden ticket when buying used. Think of the service history as the car's CV. It’s strong evidence that it’s been treated right, with all the essential maintenance and oil changes done on time. A seller who can't produce one should make you think twice.

6 most reliable used cars you can buy in Ireland

Searching for the cheapest used cars in Ireland that are also dependable doesn't have to be a guessing game. We've done the homework for you, blending insights from major industry reports with feedback from thousands of actual drivers. Each car below has earned its place for one simple reason: it's known for going the distance without costing a fortune in repairs.

The Toyota Yaris has long been a favourite in Ireland, and for good reason. 

It’s one of the toughest and cheapest-to-maintain small cars ever made

. It’s incredibly economical, sips petrol, and rarely suffers from major mechanical issues. Even older models hold their own, performing reliably with just basic, regular maintenance. For this price range, look for the ultra-efficient 1.0-litre petrol engine.

Need to upgrade to something with a bit more space? The Honda CR-V should be high on your list. It’s one of those cars that just does everything well – 

plenty of room, a comfortable ride, and a reputation for being incredibly durable

. Its engines are known to run forever, and the whole package is put together well enough to shrug off the worst of the Irish climate. The 2.2-litre i-DTEC diesel engine is a common choice for those needing a bit more pulling power.

There's a reason the Toyota Hilux is legendary for being indestructible. Finding one under €10,000 that hasn't been worked hard will be your biggest hurdle. The upside? 

Even these battle-scarred veterans are straightforward to fix and won't cost a fortune to keep on the road.

 Just be aware that many have lived hard lives as commercial or farm vehicles, so a thorough inspection is key. The 2.5-litre D-4D engine is the heart of most of these workhorses.

A lot of small cars are just sensible, but the Swift is one of the few that’s also genuinely fun to drive. It feels lively and eager in a way that most rivals don't. The bonus is that this fun doesn't come with a penalty. 

It’s a Suzuki, so it has that reputation for being tough as nails and simple to fix.

 The 1.2-litre petrol engine is the most popular choice, offering a blend of performance and economy for Irish roads.

Don't overlook the Mazda 2 in your search. It's built with that famous Japanese attention to detail, making it just as bulletproof as its main rival, the Toyota Yaris. 

Where the Mazda pulls ahead is in the driving experience; it’s more engaging and responsive, especially with its reliable 1.3L or 1.5L petrol variants.

 Just check for a consistent service history, as that's the secret to unlocking a low-stress ownership experience.

Skoda Octavia shares many parts with the Volkswagen Golf, but it offers a much larger boot and more interior space for the money.

 While they might not be quite as bulletproof as their Japanese competitors, they're consistently one of the best selling cars in Ireland. You get a massive boot and a comfortable cabin that’s perfect for family life or long hauls across the country. Many of the old 1.6 and 1.9-litre TDI diesel models are still on the road.

How to buy a car in Ireland: must-check things when inspecting the vehicle

Even a car with a great reputation needs a careful once-over. A few simple checks can help you spot potential problems and minimise the risk of buying a dud.

A complete service history shows the car has been cared for. 

Missing records could mean skipped services or hidden issues.

 Some owners are diligent DIYers and may not have a stamped book, but they should at least have receipts for parts they’ve purchased.

Rust can be a car’s worst enemy, leading to expensive and complex structural repairs. 

Pay close attention to the wheel arches, sills (under the doors), the underbody, and around the windows.

 Surface rust can be treated, but deep corrosion is a major warning sign. Be especially vigilant when purchasing from a coastal region, as salt air accelerates rust.

Pop the bonnet and have a look around. Under the bonnet, your eyes and ears are your best tools. Scan for any signs of fluid leaks, and take a second to look at the condition of the rubber belts for cracks.

Another tip: an engine bay that's too clean can be just as worrying as one that's completely neglected, as a power wash can hide problems. Most importantly, trust your ears. Clicks, whines, or knocks are the engine's way of telling you something is wrong, and those 

On the test drive, make sure you drive on a mix of roads if possible, including higher speed carriageways or motorways. It’s a crucial chance to test the car’s performance under a variety of realistic conditions. The car should accelerate smoothly, the brakes should feel firm and stable, and the suspension should be quiet. Any unusual vibrations, rattles, or clunks shouldn't be ignored. These could indicate issues with anything from the wheels to the 

Found 'the one'? Great. Now, before you get carried away, book it in for an inspection with a mechanic you trust. Think of it as a small investment to avoid a huge financial headache later.

An expert will see past a shiny exterior to spot hidden issues you'd otherwise miss. So many people get burned by skipping this step; it's genuinely one of the 

most common mistakes used car buyers make

. At the very least, never inspect a car by yourself – bring someone who knows what they're looking at.

Best vehicles

Most reliable cars in Ireland under €10,000