Daihatsu Common Problems & Known Faults

How reliable are Daihatsu cars?

Our database covers 12 Daihatsu models and 60 documented faults across the range. Of these, 22 are classified as dangerous and a further 30 as major. Dangerous faults are those that can compromise vehicle safety or lead to complete mechanical failure if left unaddressed.

According to DVSA MOT test data, Daihatsu models fail at an average rate of 25.4%, which is above the 22.7% average across all manufacturers in our database. Reliability varies considerably between models. The Materia is the strongest performer at just 19%, while the Hijet has the highest failure rate at 32.7%.

If you are considering a used Daihatsu, researching the specific model and generation you are looking at makes a real difference. The most common failure areas across the range are body & rust and suspension, though each model has its own particular weak points. This page gives you a complete breakdown by severity, the models affected, and what repairs typically cost at UK garages.

Daihatsu reliability summary

Where Daihatsu problems occur

Understanding which systems are most prone to failure helps you focus during a test drive or pre-purchase inspection. Here is how Daihatsu's 60 known issues break down by area.

Body & Rust problems dominate, accounting for 22 of the 60 faults we track (37%). Issues in this area include Subframe mounting point structural corrosion (G203) and Vehicle structure corrosion (G203). The most affected models are the Charade (2), the Copen (2), the Cuore (2).

Suspension is the next most common area, with 20 documented faults (33%). Common faults here include Front suspension swivel pin and bush wear (G203) and Suspension component wear (G203). The most affected models are the Materia (3), the Sirion (3), the Charade (2).

We also track 10 brakes faults across the range (17%). Problems to watch for include Brake hose ferrule corrosion and Brake pipe corrosion. The most affected models are the Copen (2), the YRV (2), the Cuore (1).

Transmission rounds out the top problem areas with 3 known issues (5%). Notable issues include CV joint boot deterioration (G203). The most affected models are the Charade (1), the Cuore (1), the Terios (1).

Known Daihatsu faults by severity

Every fault in our database is rated by severity based on its potential safety impact and typical repair cost. Below is a sample of issues at each level, with links to the affected model pages where you can read the full details.

Top issues across the Daihatsu range

The most common and severe problems found across all Daihatsu models, ranked by severity and how many models are affected.

Problems by Daihatsu model

We track faults across 12 Daihatsu models. Each model page includes every known issue, generation-specific details, UK repair costs, and MOT failure data. Select a model below to see its full breakdown.

What to check before buying a used Daihatsu

Every used Daihatsu deserves a thorough inspection, but knowing the common weak points for your target model gives you a serious advantage. Since body & rust faults are the most common across the range, pay particular attention to this area during any viewing or test drive.

The 22 dangerous-rated faults deserve special attention. These include Subframe mounting point structural corrosion (G203), Structural corrosion at mounting points, Vehicle structure rigidity loss from corrosion. Any of these can compromise safety or result in repair bills running well into the thousands.

A complete dealer service history is one of the strongest indicators of how well a Daihatsu has been looked after. Many of the faults on this page are preventable or can be caught early through regular servicing. If the seller cannot produce service records, treat that as a significant red flag.

Check the MOT history carefully too. With a 25.4% average failure rate across the Daihatsu range, some advisories and minor failures are normal over the life of any car. What matters is the pattern: recurring failures in the same area suggest an underlying problem, while a history of clean passes is encouraging.

Daihatsu repair costs: what to expect

Across all documented faults, the average Daihatsu repair costs between £400 and £1,044 at an independent garage. At the top end, the most expensive single repair can reach £5,000 or more. Main dealer rates are typically 30% to 50% higher across the board.

The single most expensive Daihatsu repair in our database is Vehicle structure rigidity loss from corrosion, which can cost £2,000–£5,000 at a main dealer.

These figures are based on reported UK repair costs and serve as a guide. Actual prices will vary depending on your location, the garage, and the parts required. Getting quotes from two or three specialists before committing to any major work is always worthwhile.