Nissan

Nissan cars are known for being easy to drive, affordable to run and offering good value. Many models come with helpful technology as standard, such as parking cameras, sat nav or smartphone connection.

The brand has made improvements in recent years, especially in newer models that offer better build quality and reliability.
Nissans are also widely available in the used market, which means there are lots of options and price points. This makes them a good choice for used car finance, especially if you're looking for something low cost and dependable.

Volkswagen repair costs are generally about average. They’re not the cheapest cars to fix, but they’re far from the most expensive. Parts are easy to find, and most local garages can carry out repairs without high costs. Smaller VW models like the Polo or Up! are usually cheaper to insure, and their road tax is often low too.

That said, like all cars, Volkswagens can still have issues from time to time. Some drivers have reported problems like dashboard warning lights turning on, even when there’s nothing seriously wrong. For example, a loose fuel cap or a dirty sensor might cause the Check Engine light to come on. It’s always best to get these things checked out just in case.

Oil leaks or sludge build-up are more common in some older VW engines, especially turbocharged models like the 1.8-litre. Keeping up with regular servicing and oil changes helps avoid this. Coolant leaks are another issue that can happen, often because of worn out seals or water pumps. These can lead to overheating, so it’s important to sort them quickly.

If you’re looking at an older model like the first-generation VW Atlas (2018–2021), be aware that there were some reports of fuel injector leaks. This isn’t common, but it’s a good idea to check for any recalls if you’re considering one.

Overall, Volkswagens are reliable cars, and most of these issues are easy to fix if caught early. Choosing a used VW with a full service history and keeping up with maintenance will help avoid unexpected repair costs later on.

The Nissan Qashqai is the most popular Nissan model in the UK and for good reason. It’s one of the top selling compact SUVs, combining comfort, practicality, and low running costs. Families love it because there’s plenty of room for passengers and boot space for shopping, buggies, or luggage. It’s easy to drive around town and just as comfortable on long motorway journeys.

The Qashqai is also well equipped even in the lower trims, with useful features like touchscreen infotainment, parking sensors, and good safety ratings. Fuel economy is strong too, with some versions offering over 50 mpg. It’s affordable to run, reasonably priced to insure, and holds its value well, making it a popular choice not only for new car buyers but also for those looking for a reliable used car. With wide availability on the second-hand market, the Qashqai is a safe and smart option for many types of drivers.

Nissan and Kia are both popular choices for drivers who want value, reliability, and affordable running costs, but they offer slightly different strengths. Nissan has a wide range of models, including popular electric cars like the Nissan Leaf and practical crossovers like the Qashqai. These models appeal to families, commuters, and eco conscious drivers. Nissan’s strong focus on innovation, especially in the electric car space, sets it apart in this area.

Kia, on the other hand, is known for its excellent value for money. One of Kia’s biggest selling points is its 7-year warranty, which gives buyers extra peace of mind. Kia models also tend to come with lots of standard equipment, even on entry level trims, and they’ve built a strong reputation for reliability over the years.
In terms of build quality and day-to-day dependability, both brands have come a long way and now compete closely. Kia may edge slightly ahead when it comes to overall reliability rankings, but Nissan offers a more established name, especially when it comes to electric vehicles and family friendly SUVs.

If you want a long warranty and good features for the price, Kia might be the better pick. But if you’re after a trusted electric car or something versatile like the Qashqai, Nissan could be the smarter choice. It really depends on what you need from your car.

Nissan parts are generally affordable compared to many other car brands, especially premium or imported models. One of the reasons for this is that Nissan has a strong presence in the UK, including local manufacturing and a wide dealership network. This means that parts are easy to find and don’t need to be specially imported, which helps keep prices down.

Common items like brake pads, filters, and bulbs are competitively priced, and even bigger components like alternators or exhaust systems are usually cheaper than those for premium European brands. Many Nissans also share parts across models, which helps with availability and lowers costs.

Another benefit is that most independent garages are familiar with Nissan vehicles, so you don’t have to rely on main dealers for servicing or repairs. Labour costs are usually lower at independent garages, which makes regular maintenance more affordable.
Overall, running a Nissan in the UK is cost effective. It’s a good option for drivers who want a reliable car with easy access to parts and repairs that won’t break the bank.

Here are some of the most popular Nissan models financed in the UK, and for good reason. Each one offers something different, depending on what the driver needs or prefers.

Remember: When buying any used vehicle, there’s always a chance that issues may come up later. If you’ve financed a car and start to notice mechanical problems, it’s important to contact both your finance provider and the dealership where you bought the vehicle. Acting quickly can help get the issue resolved and protect your rights.