Used cars checked: New AutoBild TÜV Report 2026

Anyone looking to buy or sell a used car wants to rely on reliable guidance. The latest edition of the AutoBild TÜV-Report 2026 provides detailed information on the technical strengths and weaknesses of 216 popular used car models. The experts at the German technical inspection associations evaluated the Periodical Technical Inspections (PTI) of around 9.5 million cars. In addition to comprehensive purchasing advice, the report gives useful tips on many car-related topics, such as a used car guide for electric vehicles and a winter tire test.

Comparing used cars is worthwhile

The most comprehensive used car guide in Germany evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of the most popular vehicle types. All 216 car models and their PTI performance are presented with a detailed profile. The most reliable two- and three-year-old vehicles in their respective vehicle classes in this year's TÜV tests are: Fiat 500 E (mini class), Mazda 2 (small car), BMW 1 Series/2 Series (compact class), Mercedes-Benz C-Class (mid-range), Mercedes-Benz B-Class (van) and VW T-Roc (SUV). The Mazda 2 stands out as the overall winner.

A look at the overall defect statistics shows how important it is to be well informed not only before buying a used car, but also before buying a new car: on average, 21.5 per cent of cars failed the test due to significant defects and therefore did not receive a badge straight away. There are considerable differences depending on the vehicle model and age. In the class of two- and three-year-old vehicles, between 2.9 and 17.3 per cent of models already have significant defects. In the age group of four- to five-year-old vehicles, the range of defect rates extends from 4 to 21.5 per cent.

In general, the failure rate of vehicle models increases with age. In the group of 12 to 13-year-old vehicles, the defect rate can even rise to 40.4 percent.

Quick orientation for readers

The division into age groups makes it easy to see which technical defects can be expected in individual vehicle models as they age. The average mileage of the respective vehicle models is also reported. A traffic light system shows readers where a car has performed above average or particularly poorly.

To help readers find their way around the magazine quickly and easily, the defect statistics evaluations not only include profiles of the various models, but also a ranking of the models by vehicle age and the tops and flops in popular vehicle categories.

More information about the magazine is available at www.ikiosk.de/autobild_tuevreport. You can also order it directly online there. The AutoBild TÜV-Report 2026 is available in German only.