Cheap to buy and run in automatic form.
Watch out for: The x-shift is an automated manual, not a true automatic, so changes are slower. Try it before you buy.
Good value and well equipped, with a dual-clutch (DCT) automatic on many versions.
Watch out for: Test the DCT for hesitant or jerky changes, especially in slow traffic.
The DSG dual-clutch gearbox gives quick, smooth changes when it is healthy.
Watch out for: DSG gearboxes can develop mechatronic or clutch wear. Check for jerky changes and for gearbox servicing on the history.
Huge space with the same DSG gearboxes as the Golf.
Watch out for: As with the Golf, test for smooth changes and look for gearbox servicing in the history.
Older A-Classes give a premium badge with an automatic gearbox in this budget.
Watch out for: Check the service history carefully and test the gearbox from cold.
Automatics to be careful with
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Ford Powershift: fitted to some Fiesta and Focus models, it is a known weak point on some years. See the Fiesta and Focus guides. •
Automated manuals: these are manual gearboxes with a robot clutch. They work, but changes feel slow and jerky compared with a true automatic.
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CVTs without servicing: CVTs need the right fluid and servicing. A “rubber band” feel or whining can point to neglect.
What to test on the drive
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Pull away gently and firmly: there should be no slip, delay or clunk.
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Drive in slow traffic: dual-clutch gearboxes show problems most at low speed.
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Try reverse and a hill start.
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Watch for warning lights and ask when the gearbox was last serviced.
Checks to run before you buy any of these
A good model can still be a bad car. Whatever you pick from this list, the history of the individual car matters more than the badge.
1.
Run the registration through a free vehicle check and make sure the make, model, colour and year match the advert. 2.
Read the MOT history for mileage that rises steadily and for advisories that keep coming back. See how to check MOT history. 3.
Check for outstanding finance, write-off and stolen markers with a full report before you pay anything.
4.
Match the V5C to the seller and to the VIN on the car. Our V5C guide shows what to look at. 5.
Take our free used car checklist to the viewing so you do not miss anything on the test drive. Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most reliable automatic car under £10,000? Toyota’s hybrids have a strong reputation because their automatic system has few wearing parts. An electric car such as the Nissan Leaf avoids a gearbox altogether.
Are DSG gearboxes reliable? They can be, when they are serviced on time. Look for gearbox servicing in the history and test for jerky changes in slow traffic.
Is an automated manual a proper automatic? No. It is a manual gearbox with an automatic clutch, so it is cheaper but less smooth. Try one before you buy.
Do automatics cost more to repair? Gearbox repairs can be expensive, which is why a test drive and the service history matter more on an automatic.
Which CarVerified report covers this?
The cars on this list are popular, which also makes them common on finance and common in insurance write-off records. Silver Plus adds the finance check, and Gold is the most complete report.
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Free check: start with the free vehicle check for the make, model, colour, year and MOT and tax status. •
Silver: the core vehicle history check. Finance is not part of Silver, but it can be unlocked separately. •
Silver Plus: adds the outstanding finance check, which matters on any car that may have been bought on PCP or HP. •
Gold: the most complete report, adding ex-taxi, salvage and valuation checks. See all our lists in best used cars UK, or go straight to the best used cars under £5,000, best used cars under £10,000, best first cars under £5,000, best family cars under £15,000, best reliable diesel cars, best reliable petrol cars, best used hybrid cars, best used EVs.