What Is the Volkswagen Crafter MOT Pass Rate?
on 23 April 2026
The Volkswagen Crafter, a popular commercial vehicle in the UK, faces a somewhat challenging MOT situation. According to DVSA anonymised data from 2024, out of 58,623 total tests conducted on Volkswagen Crafers, only 76.2% passed their MOTs first time around. This is notably lower than the national average pass rate of 79.6%, indicating that Crafers may require more maintenance or repair work to ensure compliance with safety standards.
Common Volkswagen Crafter MOT Failures
The lower-than-average pass rate for the Volkswagen Crafter highlights specific areas where these vehicles often encounter issues during their annual MOT tests. Some common failure points include:
- Lights: Issues such as faulty bulbs, broken indicator stalks, or malfunctioning brake lights are frequent problems. Owners should ensure that all exterior and interior lighting functions correctly before taking their Crafter for an MOT test.
- Suspension Systems: Problems with shock absorbers, springs, and other suspension components can lead to a failed inspection. These parts often wear out due to the high mileage typically accumulated by commercial vehicles like the Crafter.
According to the DVSA Anonymised MOT Testing Data (2022-2024), volkswagen crafter has a 76.2% pass rate from 58,623 tests
- Brakes: Brake pads worn beyond safe limits or fluid levels that are too low frequently cause tests to fail. Regular checks and maintenance of brake systems should be prioritised to avoid any issues at MOT time.
- Wheels and Tyres: Insufficient tread depth, damaged rims, or improper tyre pressure can result in a failure. Ensuring tyres meet legal requirements is important for passing the MOT test.
Owners of Volkswagen Crafers are advised to conduct thorough pre-MOT checks to address potential issues before they become serious problems. Regular maintenance and proactive repairs can significantly improve the chances of first-time pass rates.
Volkswagen Crafter Mileage and Reliability
The average mileage at which Volkswagen Crafters undergo their first MOT test is 125,815 miles. This figure suggests that many Crafers are used extensively for commercial purposes before reaching this stage in their lifecycle. The high average mileage implies a strong vehicle capable of enduring significant use but also highlights the need for regular maintenance and timely repairs.
Crafters typically see heavy usage over several years, contributing to the higher likelihood of MOT failures due to wear and tear on critical components. However, with proper care and attention, many issues can be identified and corrected before they lead to a failed test.
Volkswagen Crafter owners who have purchased their vehicle through finance arrangements such as PCP (Personal Contract Purchase) or HP (Hire Purchase) may be eligible for the FCA redress scheme if they encounter significant problems with their vehicle during its ownership period. This scheme can provide additional support and assistance to those facing unexpected issues.
To sum up, while Volkswagen Crafters have a lower MOT pass rate compared to the national average, regular maintenance, proactive repairs, and thorough pre-MOT checks can significantly improve first-time pass rates. By understanding common failure points and addressing them proactively, Crafter owners can ensure their vehicles remain compliant with safety standards throughout their lifecycle.
Sources
- DVSA Anonymised MOT Testing Data (2022-2024)
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