What Is the Vauxhall Agila MOT Pass Rate?
on 23 April 2026
The Vauxhall Agila, a popular subcompact car known for its affordability and practicality, faces some challenges when it comes to passing its MOT (Ministry of Transport) test. According to anonymised data from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), the pass rate for the Vauxhall Agila is 73.9%, with a total of 40,531 tests conducted. This means that out of every 100 Vauxhall Agilas tested, approximately 26% fail their MOT, which is significantly higher than the national average of 79.6%. The failure rate for the Vauxhall Agila stands at 26.1%, indicating a notable disparity with other vehicles on UK roads.
Common Vauxhall Agila MOT Failures
Owners of Vauxhall Agilas need to be particularly vigilant about certain components that frequently cause their cars to fail MOT tests. Some of the most common issues include brake system failures, lighting faults, and emissions-related problems. Brake pads are a critical area; worn-out or improperly functioning brakes can lead to failure due to safety concerns. Similarly, any damage or malfunction in headlights, taillights, indicators, or reversing lights can result in a failed MOT.
Another significant contributor to the Vauxhall Agila's lower pass rate is its exhaust system and emissions control devices. These systems must meet strict emission standards set by the government to ensure that vehicles aren't emitting harmful pollutants beyond permissible levels. For owners of Vauxhall Agilas, it's important to inspect these components regularly.
To avoid common failures, Vauxhall Agila owners should conduct pre-MOT checks. Checking brake pads and rotors for wear is important before taking your car for its MOT test. ensuring that all lights are functioning correctly can prevent unnecessary visits back to the garage if a light bulb blows just prior to or during the test.
According to the DVSA Anonymised MOT Testing Data (2022-2024), vauxhall agila has a 73.9% pass rate from 40,531 tests
Vauxhall Agila Mileage and Reliability
The average mileage at which Vauxhall Agilas undergo their first MOT is 65,144 miles. This figure provides valuable insights into typical ownership patterns for this model type. The relatively high average mileage suggests that many owners keep their Vauxhall Agilas for a considerable period before they reach the mandatory MOT testing stage at three years old.
The reliability of a Vauxhall Agila can be inferred from its performance during these tests, as vehicles that are well-maintained and kept in good condition tend to pass MOT inspections more easily. However, given the higher failure rate compared to the national average, it's evident that owners need to pay closer attention to regular maintenance schedules.
for those who have purchased their Vauxhall Agila through personal contract purchase (PCP) or hire purchase (HP), it's worth noting that these vehicles may be eligible for redress under the Financial Conduct Authority's (FCA) redress scheme. This can provide financial relief if significant issues arise during ownership.
To sum up, while the Vauxhall Agila offers an affordable and practical option for many UK motorists, its lower MOT pass rate highlights the importance of regular maintenance and proactive checks to ensure it remains roadworthy. By staying vigilant about common failure points and conducting thorough pre-MOT inspections, owners can improve their chances of passing this important safety test on the first attempt.
Sources
- DVSA Anonymised MOT Testing Data (2022-2024)
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