17/02/2023
The annual MOT test is a crucial hurdle for every vehicle owner in the UK, a moment of truth that determines if your beloved car is roadworthy and safe. For many, it's a source of anxiety, and for good reason: a failed MOT can lead to unexpected repair bills and the inconvenience of a retest. But what exactly are the odds? What is the average MOT success rate across the country, and are some cars truly more prone to failure than others? Let's delve into the latest data to shed some light on these pressing questions and equip you with the knowledge to improve your vehicle's chances.
According to exclusive data shared by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) for January to the end of October this year, the average first-time MOT pass rate for passenger cars stands at 71.8 per cent. This figure is based on a staggering 15,535,112 passes out of 21,642,614 tests conducted. While this might seem like a solid majority, it also means that nearly three in ten cars fail their MOT at the first attempt, requiring owners to address defects and undergo a retest – often incurring significant costs.
The Evolving Landscape of MOT Pass Rates
Interestingly, MOT pass rates have shown a gradual increase over the past decade, despite the introduction of stricter defect categories in May 2018. Back in the 2013-14 financial year, the average pass rate for cars and vans was a mere 60 per cent. This steadily climbed to 66.4 per cent by 2018-19. For the most recent full financial year, 2023-24, the average MOT success rate on the first attempt was 71.4 per cent. However, this was a slight dip from 71.6 per cent in 2022-23, hinting at potential shifts in the trend.
This slight decline could be attributed to a significant demographic change in the UK's vehicle fleet: cars are getting older. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders' (SMMT) latest motorparc update reported that the average age of cars in Britain in 2023 was nine years, an increase from eight years in 2019. This trend is largely driven by motorists' reluctance to pay the escalating prices for new models, which have soared by 129 per cent in the last 15 years. Consequently, more people are holding onto their existing vehicles for longer. Of the 34 million cars registered in the UK, nearly half – 16 million – are more than ten years old, with 10.5 million being over 12 years old. As vehicles age, they naturally become more susceptible to wear and tear, suggesting that we might see a downward pressure on overall MOT pass rates in the coming years.
MOT Pass Rates Over the Last Decade
| Financial Year | Average Pass Rate (Cars & Vans) |
|---|---|
| 2023-24 | 71.4% |
| 2022-23 | 71.6% |
| 2021-22 | 70.8% |
| 2020-21 | 69.8% |
| 2019-20 | 68.3% |
| 2018-19 | 66.4% |
| 2017-18 | 65.5% |
| 2016-17 | 64.6% |
| 2015-16 | 63.2% |
| 2014-15 | 61.7% |
| 2013-14 | 60.0% |
Source: DVSA figures
Dangerous Defects: A Growing Concern
Of all the 6.1 million cars that failed their MOTs at the first attempt in 2024, a significant proportion were found to have serious issues. Analysis of DVSA records by vehicle leasing comparison website LeaseLoco revealed that over 1.7 million of these failures – equating to 27.9 per cent – were due to dangerous defects. These defect categories, introduced in May 2018, differentiate between minor, major, and dangerous issues. Crucially, even a single major or dangerous defect automatically results in an MOT fail, highlighting the stringent nature of the test when it comes to critical safety components.
This underscores the vital role of the MOT in ensuring road safety. As John Wilmot, CEO at LeaseLoco, aptly put it, "Our study's findings emphasise the critical importance of regular maintenance to ensure vehicles meet safety standards and keep our roads safe." While the MOT can be a stressful and potentially costly part of car ownership, its purpose is unequivocally to ensure roadworthiness and safety for all.
The Models Most Likely to Fail Their MOT
While the national average tells one story, certain models tell a very different one. Exclusive data has pinpointed the ten models with the most abysmal MOT success statistics for 2024, all of them ageing vehicles from the 'noughties'. These cars recorded first-time pass rates between a meagre 45.3 per cent and 48.9 per cent, meaning well over half of them required a second MOT, often after costly repairs. It's a stark reminder that a cheap used car purchase might hide significant maintenance liabilities.
Top 10 Models with the Highest MOT Fail Rates in 2024
| Rank | Model (Years Sold) | No. Tested (2024) | Pass Rate (2024) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mitsubishi Space Star (1999-2005) | 943 | 45.3% | Awarded the unwanted crown, this supermini with MPV aspirations was never a big seller and struggles with age. |
| 2 | Peugeot 807 (2002-2010) | 692 | 46.1% | A sister model to the Citroen C8, once popular for families and taxis, now rapidly disappearing due to MOT challenges. |
| 3 | Citroen C8 (2003-2010) | 636 | 46.5% | Shared platform MPV, comfortable and spacious, but Father Time is catching up, leading to higher repair costs for owners. |
| 4 | Dodge Caliber (2006-2009) | 551 | 47.2% | An obscure crossover on sale for just three years in the UK, known for poor handling, refinement, and cheap interior. |
| 5 | Daewoo Matiz (1998-2005) | 609 | 47.5% | A budget-friendly supermini from the late 90s, now up to 26 years old and built to a budget, unsurprisingly struggling. |
| 6 | Citroen Grand C4 Picasso (2007-2013) | 2,875 | 47.6% | A practical and refined MPV from the noughties, showing signs of age and declining MOT pass rates. |
| 7 | Chevrolet Kalos (2005-2008) | 1,584 | 47.6% | The third Chevrolet on the list, suggesting most of the brand's EU-spec noughties models don't hold up well. |
| 8 | Chevrolet Aveo (2008-2015) | 5,791 | 48.4% | Another budget-friendly small car from Chevrolet, now struggling to pass MOTs despite an initial good warranty. |
| 9 | Peugeot 307 (2001-2007) | 19,584 | 48.6% | A once-popular French family hatchback with a historically poor reliability record, now reflected in its high MOT fail rate. |
| 10 | Chevrolet Lacetti (2005-2011) | 1,380 | 48.9% | A low-budget early 2000s hatchback, numbers dwindled likely due to poor build quality and unexciting performance. |
It's worth noting that all these models are now over a decade old, many pushing two decades, and likely have high mileage. Their sub-50 per cent pass rates are, in some respects, understandable given their age and original price point. While they represent a tiny fraction (around 0.1 per cent) of vehicles tested each year, some, like the Peugeot 307, were once major sellers, meaning thousands of UK drivers still own these challenging motors.
Which Car Brands Are Most and Least Likely to Pass an MOT?
Beyond individual models, a look at manufacturers reveals broader trends. The national average MOT pass rate across all UK vehicles is around 80 per cent (this figure differs slightly from the passenger car first-time pass rate mentioned earlier, likely including retests or a broader vehicle category). Topping the list for success are luxury brands, suggesting either superior build quality or that their owners invest more in maintenance and upkeep.
- Most Likely to Pass:
- Ferrari: 94% pass rate
- Bentley: 91.6% pass rate
- Porsche: 88.35% pass rate
On the other end of the spectrum, some manufacturers consistently fall below the average. American car manufacturing giant Chrysler cars are the least likely to pass an MOT test, with a success rate of just 73 per cent – a significant 21 per cent drop compared to Ferrari. Other brands frequently found in the bottom five for worst pass rates include Chevrolet, Daihatsu, and Saab, many of which no longer have a significant market presence in Europe or have ceased trading entirely, making parts and specialist knowledge harder to come by.
Improving Your Car's Chances of Passing the MOT
The good news is that motorists can significantly reduce stress and improve their chances of passing first-time by performing basic pre-MOT checks and maintaining regular servicing throughout the year. Preventative maintenance is key. Here are some actionable tips:
- Lights: Check all lights (headlights, brake lights, indicators, fog lights, reverse lights, number plate lights) are working, clean, and correctly coloured.
- Tyres: Ensure tyres have adequate tread depth (minimum 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tread), are correctly inflated, and free from cuts or bulges. Don't forget the spare if it's required for the test.
- Brakes: Listen for any unusual noises and check that the car pulls up straight when braking.
- Windscreen and Wipers: Check for chips or cracks larger than 10mm in the driver's immediate view or 40mm elsewhere on the swept area. Ensure wipers clear the screen effectively and the washer fluid is topped up.
- Fluid Levels: Check oil, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and coolant levels.
- Horn: Give it a quick blast to ensure it works and is loud enough.
- Seats and Seatbelts: Ensure all seatbelts are free from cuts or fraying and latch securely. Check seats are securely mounted.
- Registration Plates: Ensure they are clean, legible, and correctly spaced.
- Exhaust System: Listen for any unusual noises or excessive smoke.
- Dashboard Warning Lights: Pay attention to any illuminated warning lights, as these can be an instant fail.
Regular servicing, even if not legally required annually like the MOT, plays a crucial role. A well-maintained vehicle is inherently more likely to pass its MOT, saving you time, money, and potential headaches down the line. Investing in your car's health throughout the year is the best strategy to sail through that annual roadworthiness test.
Frequently Asked Questions About MOTs
What is an MOT test?
An MOT (Ministry of Transport) test is an annual inspection of vehicles over three years old in the UK to ensure they meet minimum road safety and environmental standards. It's a legal requirement, and driving without a valid MOT certificate can result in a fine of up to £1,000, and your insurance may be invalidated.
How long is an MOT certificate valid for?
An MOT certificate is valid for 12 months from the date it's issued. You can get an MOT up to one month (minus one day) before your current certificate expires and keep the same renewal date.
What happens if my car fails its MOT?
If your car fails its MOT, you will receive a 'Refusal of an MOT Test Certificate'. You cannot drive your car on the road until the defects are repaired and it passes a retest, unless you are driving it to a pre-booked appointment for repairs or to a retest centre. If your car has 'dangerous' defects, you cannot drive it at all until the defects are fixed, even to a garage.
What are the most common reasons for MOT failure?
Common reasons for MOT failure include issues with lighting and signalling (e.g., blown bulbs), suspension, brakes, tyres (e.g., insufficient tread depth), and driver's view of the road (e.g., windscreen damage or wipers). Exhaust emissions can also be a significant factor, especially for older vehicles.
Can I do anything to prepare my car for an MOT?
Absolutely. Performing basic checks yourself, such as ensuring all lights work, checking tyre tread and pressure, topping up washer fluid, and ensuring your horn works, can significantly increase your chances of a first-time pass. Regular servicing by a qualified mechanic is also highly recommended, as they can identify and fix potential issues before the MOT.
What's the difference between 'major' and 'dangerous' defects?
A 'major' defect is a fault that could affect the vehicle's safety, impact the environment, or put other road users at risk. A 'dangerous' defect is one that poses a direct and immediate risk to road safety or the environment. Both major and dangerous defects will result in an MOT fail, but a dangerous defect means the vehicle should not be driven until repaired.
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