The UK's national MOT pass rate has continued to improve over the last three years, according to an analysis of DVSA anonymised MOT test data by MLJ.org.uk. From a base of 78.8% in 2022, the pass rate increased to 79.2% in 2023 and further improved to 79.6% in 2024. This gradual improvement suggests that car owners are increasingly maintaining their vehicles better than ever before.
Which Car Makes Have the Best MOT Pass Rate?
When it comes to vehicle reliability, some brands stand out with exceptionally high pass rates on their annual MOT tests. In 2024, Ferrari leads the pack with a remarkable 95.9% pass rate, closely followed by LEVC (formerly London EV Company) at 95.2%. Harley-Davidson and Ducati also performed well, achieving pass rates of 95.0% and 94.8%, respectively. Triumph Motorcycles came in fifth with a solid 93.8%, while Aston Martin and Bentley rounded out the top six with respective pass rates of 93.4% and 92.8%.
| Brand | Pass Rate (2024) | |----------------|------------------| | Ferrari | 95.9% | | LEVC | 95.2% | | Harley-Davidson| 95.0% | | Ducati | 94.8% | | Triumph | 93.8% | | Aston Martin | 93.4% | | Bentley | 92.8% |
Which Cars Fail Their MOT Most Often?
On the other end of the spectrum, certain brands are struggling to meet the standards set by the DVSA. Chevrolet has the lowest pass rate among major car manufacturers at just 69.7%, followed closely by LDV with a 69.0% pass rate. Daihatsu and Chrysler also fared poorly, achieving only 72.3% and 72.7% respectively. Renault (74.3%) and Citroen (75.3%) round out the bottom five in terms of MOT pass rates.
| Brand | Pass Rate (2024) | |----------------|------------------| | Chevrolet | 69.7% | | LDV | 69.0% | | Daihatsu | 72.3% | | Chrysler | 72.7% | | Renault | 74.3% | | Citroen | 75.3% |
What Are the Most Common Reasons for MOT Failure?
Understanding why vehicles fail their MOT tests can help drivers take proactive measures to avoid issues in future years. According to the data, lighting and electrical systems are the most common cause of failure, accounting for nearly one-fifth (18.9%) of all MOT failures in 2024. Suspension problems follow closely at 13.2%, with brake-related faults making up another significant portion at 10.1%. Tyres, driver's view, bodywork/corrosion, and exhaust/emissions round out the top six reasons for MOT failure.
| Reason | Percentage (2024) | |-----------------------|--------------------| | Lighting/Electrical | 18.9% | | Suspension | 13.2% | | Brakes | 10.1% | | Tyres | 7.8% | | Driver's View | 7.3% | | Bodywork/Corrosion | 6.5% | | Exhaust/Emissions | 5.9% |
How Does Your Car Compare? (Most Tested Models)
Certain car models dominate the UK MOT testing scene, with the Ford Fiesta being tested more than any other vehicle at 1,409,274 times since 2022. Despite its popularity and high test volume, it has a pass rate of just 76.6%, averaging around 72,204 miles before failing. Other frequently tested models include the VW Golf (853,258 tests), Ford Focus (849,076 tests), and Vauxhall Corsa (774,740 tests). Each of these popular models has its own pass rate and average mileage to failure.
| Model | Number of Tests | Pass Rate (%) | Avg Miles Before Failure | |-----------------|-----------------|---------------|--------------------------| | Ford Fiesta | 1,409,274 | 76.6% | 72,204 | | VW Golf | 853,258 | 80.5% | | | Ford Focus | 849,076 | 78.1% | | | Vauxhall Corsa | 774,740 | 74.9% | |
What This Means for UK Motorists (Practical Advice)
The data reveals a stark contrast between the reliability of different car brands and models on the market today. It's clear that maintaining your vehicle according to manufacturer guidelines is crucial if you want to avoid costly MOT failures down the line. Regular servicing, timely replacement of parts like tyres and brake pads, and addressing electrical faults early can significantly improve your chances of passing an MOT test.
while Tesla had a strong start with an 88.4% pass rate in 2022, it saw its performance decline to 86.5% by 2024-a worrying trend for owners of the brand's vehicles. On the bright side, MG showed substantial improvement over three years, increasing from a lower base but now achieving an impressive 85.4%.
You can complain to your lender directly for free if you encounter issues with car finance agreements related to PCP or HP on these vehicles. Remember, you do not need a claims management company to handle such complaints; dealing with the Financial Ombudsman Service is another option available.
This data underscores the importance of staying informed about vehicle reliability and maintenance practices. By understanding which cars perform well under scrutiny and why others struggle, drivers can make more informed decisions when it comes to buying or maintaining their vehicles.
DVSA anonymised MOT test data, analysed by MLJ