In association with MotorEasy
Least reliable luxury cars
Luxury cars feature the very latest technology, which is great – unless they go wrong, at which point it can make them very expensive to fix. So, here we reveal the most and least dependable...
The least reliable luxury cars
3. BMW 5 Series diesel (2017-present)
Reliability rating 89.1%
With a fault rate of 31%, almost twice as many diesel 5 Series’ went wrong as petrol versions. This was due to a higher number of engine electrical faults adding to the bodywork issues and non-engine electrical issues that are prevalent in the petrol cars.
Whereas the cost of repairing all petrol cars was covered under warranty, for 27% of diesel cars, it was not, leaving owners with bills of more than £1500 in 3% of cases. However, things weren't all bad; just 3% of diesels broke down, compared with 25% of petrol 5 Series models.
Read our full BMW 5 Series review >>
2. Audi A6 (2018-present)
Reliability rating 85.3%
Problems with the electrical systems, bodywork, engine, or the infotainment system cropped up across 47% of A6s over the past year, and 37% of these faults were so severe that they took more than a week to rectify, with 7% of owners being charged between £201 and £300 for remedial work. However, the remaining 93% of repairs were covered by Audi.
Fortunately, just 4% of cars broke down completely, and that somewhat mitigates what could have been a shockingly low rating for the current A6.
Read our full Audi A6 review >>
1. Audi A6 (2011-2018)
Reliability rating 82.1%
You might be tempted by the previous-generation A6’s stylish looks and relatively low secondhand prices, but we’d advise caution when buying one. That’s because 40% went wrong over the past year, with 10% of those taking more than a week to put right.
Furthermore, 40% of owners had to pay for remedial work, with half of bills costing between £501 and £750. If you’ve got your heart set on a previous-generation A6, exercise due diligence first – our used review is a great starting point, detailing all the recall actions and areas of concern, as well as how you can get the most for your money.
Read our used Audi A6 (2011-2018) review >>
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Best luxury cars 2022
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