Best First Cars by MOT Pass Rate 2024 — Data From 3.5 Million Tests

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Best First Cars by MOT Pass Rate 2024 — Data From 3.5 Million Tests

Last updated: 27 April 2026

The Most Reliable First Cars According to MOT Data

Choosing your first car is an exciting but daunting decision. It’s a major investment that you want to get right, especially if you’re a new driver trying to establish good habits behind the wheel. One of the most crucial factors in making this choice should be reliability, as it directly affects your safety and budget. At MLJ.org.uk (MLJ), we analyze data from over 3.5 million MOT tests conducted by the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) to provide you with a reliable guide for selecting your first car. This article will highlight the best cars in terms of their MOT pass rates, which serve as an excellent indicator of overall reliability.

Rankings Table

Here are the top 16 small cars ranked by their MOT pass rate:

Rank	Car Model	MOT Pass Rate (%)	Total Tests Conducted	Average Mileage (miles)
1	Volkswagen Up	85.9%	113,152	60,147
2	Toyota Aygo	82.6%	187,018	59,343
3	Hyundai i10	81.7%	190,419	56,328
4	Honda Jazz	81.4%	229,278	55,960
5	Toyota Yaris	81.2%	450,295	63,793
6	Hyundai i20	81.0%	122,160	54,713
7	Suzuki Swift	80.3%	102,529	62,247
8	Kia Picanto	79.8%	179,709	53,327
9	Skoda Fabia	79.2%	246,773	58,195
10	Vauxhall Adam	78.9%	62,501	49,634
11	Peugeot 208	78.8%	176,076	59,493
12	Kia Rio	77.9%	105,771	62,849
13	Fiat 500	76.8%	293,727	66,425
14	Ford Fiesta	76.6%	1,409,274	83,452
15	Vauxhall Corsa	74.9%	774,740	83,026
16	Renault Clio	70.7%	327,722	84,593

The table above shows that the Volkswagen Up and Toyota Aygo lead the pack with MOT pass rates of 85.9% and 82.6%, respectively. These figures indicate a high level of reliability across these models.

Why the VW Up and Toyota Aygo Top the List

The Volkswagen Up and Toyota Aygo stand out for several reasons:

Newer Design: Both cars have been recently updated, incorporating modern design elements that can help prevent issues before they arise.

Simpler Mechanics: The simpler mechanical systems of these vehicles make them less prone to complex failures. They are also easier to service and maintain.

Japanese Reliability: Toyota has a reputation for producing reliable vehicles across its range, which is reflected in the high MOT pass rate of the Aygo.

The Ford Fiesta Problem

The Ford Fiesta might be the most popular first car among new drivers, but it ranks surprisingly low with an MOT pass rate of only 76.6%. This poor showing can largely be attributed to its widespread use by fleets and commercial operators. These vehicles often log high mileages, leading to higher failure rates during MOT tests. However, if you're buying a Fiesta for personal use at lower mileages, it may still prove reliable. It’s essential to consider the specific model variant and mileage when making your decision.

Should You Avoid the Renault Clio?

With an MOT pass rate of just 70.7%, the Renault Clio is one of the least reliable cars on this list. This poor reliability can lead to higher maintenance costs and more frequent repairs, which could be a significant burden for new drivers. Given that it falls almost ten percentage points below the national average (79.6%), it’s advisable to look elsewhere if possible.

Insurance and Running Costs Matter Too

Reliability is just one aspect of choosing your first car. Insurance costs, running expenses like fuel efficiency, and other factors also play a crucial role in determining long-term affordability. You can find more information on these aspects by visiting our vehicle pages at MLJ.org.uk.

How to Use This Data When Buying

When selecting your first car, consider the following tips:

Check Specific Model Variants: Not all variants of a model will have the same reliability rates. For example, some versions might be equipped with better engines or have fewer mechanical issues.

Mileage Matters: Cars that log high mileages tend to fail MOT tests more frequently. Ensure you factor in mileage when assessing a car's reliability.

By taking these factors into account and using our data-driven insights, you can make an informed decision about your first car purchase.

sources

DVSA MOT statistics (3.5 million tests)

This guide aims to provide you with the necessary tools to select a reliable and cost-effective first car that will serve you well as you begin your driving journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best first car in terms of MOT pass rates?

The Volkswagen Up has one of the highest MOT pass rates among first cars, with an impressive rate of 85.9%. This high score indicates that it generally requires fewer repairs and maintenance issues than other models.

Is the Ford Fiesta a reliable car for passing the MOT?

The reliability of the Ford Fiesta when it comes to passing the MOT is below average, with a pass rate of 76.6%. This suggests that owners may face more frequent repairs and maintenance issues compared to other first cars.

Which car model is the worst for MOT pass rates among first cars?

The Renault Clio has one of the lowest MOT pass rates at 70.7%, making it less reliable in terms of long-term maintenance and repair costs compared to other models often used as a first car.

Does mileage significantly affect the likelihood of passing an MOT test?

Yes, mileage has a significant impact on MOT pass rates. Higher mileages typically correlate with higher maintenance needs and thus lower chances of passing the MOT without repairs or replacements.

Where does the data for these MOT pass rates come from?

The MOT pass rate statistics are sourced from 35.2 million DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) tests conducted in the UK during 2024, providing a full and reliable basis for evaluating car reliability.

Important: MLJ.org.uk is an independent information resource. We are not a claims management company, solicitor, law firm, or financial adviser. We do not process claims, take fees, or provide advice. Where the law gives you a right to complain or claim directly (to a lender, council, FOS, court, or regulator), you can do so without paying a third party. MLJ.org.uk is operated by Copious Ltd, registered in England and Wales, company number 11437826.