10 UK Car Makes With the Highest MOT Failure Rates from 2024 DVSA Data

When buying a used car, understanding MOT performance can save you hundreds in unexpected repair bills. Based on 34.2 million 2024 DVSA records covering over 2.3 million tests for the top 10 failed cars, certain makes consistently record lower pass rates than the UK average. These figures don't measure build quality or engineering—they reflect roadworthiness at test points, influenced by fleet age, mileage patterns, and maintenance histories. In this guide, you'll discover which ten makes recorded the lowest MOT pass rates in 2024, the most common failure categories for each, and what these patterns mean for UK drivers shopping for used vehicles or maintaining their current car. We'll break down the data honestly, explain what drives these results, and show you how to make informed decisions whether you're buying, selling, or simply keeping your vehicle road-legal.

The Bottom 10: UK Makes With the Lowest MOT Pass Rates in 2024

Per the 2024 MOT dataset, ten makes recorded pass rates below 66%, significantly trailing the UK fleet average. Chevrolet sits at the bottom with a 55.35% pass rate across 58,918 tests, followed by LDV at 57.34% and Daihatsu at 61.25%. Chrysler, Renault, London Taxis International, Citroen, Iveco, Saab, and Rover complete the bottom ten, with pass rates ranging from 61.52% to 65.69%.

Collectively, these ten makes accounted for 893,706 failures from 2.38 million tests—an aggregate pass rate of just 62.55%. For context, the broader UK fleet typically hovers around 70-75% pass rates depending on vehicle age and class. It's crucial to understand that these figures measure MOT outcomes, not manufacturing quality. Older fleet profiles, higher average mileage, parts availability challenges, and ownership demographics all influence these results. A lower pass rate often reflects the age and usage patterns of vehicles still on the road rather than inherent design flaws. Drivers considering common UK car problems by make can explore detailed fault breakdowns for every manufacturer in our DVSA data hub.

What's Causing These Failures? The Top Fault Categories Explained

Across the bottom ten makes, electrical faults dominate failure records, accounting for 594,523 defects—28.71% of all recorded failures in 2024. Suspension issues follow at 22.06%, then brakes at 17.39%, bodywork at 10.59%, and tyres and wheels at 8.88%. Steering, exhaust, and engine faults collectively represent the remaining 12% of failures.

Electrical problems—ranging from defective lighting to wiring faults and ABS issues—present the single biggest challenge for these makes. Modern MOT tests scrutinise every bulb, indicator, and dashboard warning light, meaning even minor electrical gremlins trigger failures. Suspension wear reflects both component age and UK road conditions; potholes and degraded surfaces accelerate bush and shock absorber deterioration. Brake failures typically involve worn pads, corroded discs, or seized calipers—consumables that deteriorate predictably over time. Bodywork defects usually mean structural corrosion severe enough to compromise safety, a particular issue for older vehicles exposed to road salt. Owners of vehicles from these makes should prioritise pre-MOT inspections focusing on common electrical problems on UK cars and common suspension problems on UK cars to catch issues before test day.

Make-By-Make Breakdown: Understanding Each Manufacturer's Challenges

Let's examine each of the bottom ten makes individually, exploring their specific failure patterns and what drivers should watch for when maintaining or purchasing these vehicles.

1. Chevrolet (55.35% Pass Rate)

Chevrolet's 55.35% pass rate—the lowest of any major make tested in 2024—stems primarily from electrical faults. With 58,918 tests recorded, nearly half failed due to lighting defects, ABS warning lights, or wiring issues. Many Chevrolet models on UK roads date from the brand's 2005-2015 period before General Motors withdrew from Europe, meaning most vehicles are approaching or exceeding ten years old. Parts availability has become challenging post-withdrawal, and ageing electrical components in models like the Cruze and Aveo frequently develop corrosion in connectors and switch gear. Drivers maintaining these vehicles should budget for regular electrical system checks and consider sourcing quality replacement components early. For detailed fault patterns, explore common Chevrolet problems and MOT failures.

2. LDV (57.34% Pass Rate)

LDV's 57.34% pass rate across 10,009 tests reflects the challenging life commercial vehicles endure. Brake failures dominate LDV's MOT record—hardly surprising given that vans and light commercial vehicles work harder than passenger cars, covering higher annual mileages under load. Brake discs and pads wear faster, calipers seize more frequently, and brake lines corrode quicker when vehicles spend their lives in stop-start urban delivery work. LDV's post-2009 history—brand changes, production shifts, and parts supply chain disruptions—compounds maintenance challenges. Commercial operators should implement rigorous brake inspection schedules and replace consumables proactively rather than running them to failure. The common LDV problems and MOT failures page details specific weak points by model and year.

3. Daihatsu (61.25% Pass Rate)

Daihatsu withdrew from the UK market in 2013, meaning every vehicle tested in 2024 was at least eleven years old. The 61.25% pass rate from 17,000 tests reflects both age and the challenges of maintaining discontinued models. Electrical faults—particularly lighting and wiring corrosion—drive most failures. Small economy cars like the Sirion and Terios often spent their early years in urban environments, accumulating short journeys that prevent alternators from fully charging batteries and accelerate electrical component wear. Parts scarcity presents real challenges; owners increasingly rely on breakers' yards or generic aftermarket components. Prospective buyers should verify parts availability before committing to purchase. Check common Daihatsu problems and MOT failures for model-specific advice.

4. Chrysler (61.52% Pass Rate)

Chrysler's 61.52% pass rate across 23,114 tests places it fourth from bottom, with brake faults leading failure records. Models like the Voyager and 300C—popular in the 2000s—now face age-related brake system corrosion. Many Chrysler vehicles feature complex multi-piston brake calipers that, while effective when new, require meticulous maintenance as they age. Seized pistons, corroded sliders, and degraded brake hoses become increasingly common beyond ten years. The brand's minimal UK presence since 2017 complicates parts sourcing for specialist components. Owners should prioritise annual brake fluid changes and thorough caliper inspections, particularly before MOT tests. Detailed failure patterns appear on the common Chrysler problems and MOT failures page.

5. Renault (62.21% Pass Rate)

Renault's position—fifth from bottom with 62.21% pass rate—represents the largest dataset in the bottom ten: 1,067,694 tests in 2024. Electrical faults dominate, particularly on popular models like the Clio, Megane, and Scenic. Common issues include failing headlight bulbs (especially complex xenon and LED systems), faulty ABS sensors, and corroded earth points that trigger warning lights. Renault's volume presence in the UK market means millions of vehicles spanning twenty-plus model years all contribute to these statistics, with older examples naturally more prone to age-related electrical deterioration. The high test volume suggests many Renaults remain in daily use well beyond their first decade, accumulating the wear that drives MOT failures. For comprehensive fault data organised by model and year, visit common Renault problems and MOT failures.

6–10: London Taxis Int, Citroen, Iveco, Saab, and Rover

The remaining five makes share similar challenges. London Taxis International's 62.55% pass rate reflects the demanding life of black cabs—high mileage, constant urban use, and suspension systems stressed by London's roads. Suspension faults dominate their failure record. Citroen's 63.19% pass rate (1,076,840 tests) mirrors Renault's electrical challenges, particularly on models sharing platforms and components. Iveco's 63.52% rate represents commercial vehicles facing brake and electrical wear similar to LDV. Saab's 63.77% pass rate reflects an entirely discontinued brand—no UK sales since 2011—with ageing electrical systems and parts scarcity complicating maintenance. Rover's 65.69% pass rate, whilst highest in the bottom ten, still reflects twenty-plus years since production ceased, with electrical faults dominating an increasingly elderly fleet. Detailed analysis for each appears on their respective problem pages: London Taxis Int, Citroen, Iveco, Saab, and Rover.

Should You Avoid These Makes When Buying Used?

Lower MOT pass rates don't automatically disqualify a make from consideration. Context matters enormously. A well-maintained ten-year-old Renault Clio with full service history and recent consumable replacements may prove more dependable than a neglected five-year-old vehicle from a brand with higher average pass rates.

When evaluating any used vehicle—particularly from makes with lower pass rates—prioritise individual vehicle condition over brand statistics. Request full service history, verify MOT records using our MOT checker, and commission a pre-purchase inspection from a qualified mechanic. Pay particular attention to the failure categories most common for that make: electrical systems for Chevrolet, Renault, and Citroen; brakes for LDV and Chrysler; suspension for London Taxis International.

Consider parts availability and specialist knowledge in your area. Discontinued brands like Saab, Rover, and Daihatsu may require specialist workshops familiar with their quirks. Check that local garages stock or can readily source consumables like brake pads, filters, and bulbs. Factor potential repair costs into your purchase decision—a cheaper purchase price means little if you face premium labour rates and scarce parts. Finally, remember that MOT pass rate reflects a population average; meticulous maintenance can keep any vehicle road-legal and dependable. For help finding qualified mechanics familiar with your chosen make, browse car garages near you in our directory.

How to Improve Your MOT Pass Chances: Proactive Maintenance Tips

Regardless of make, proactive maintenance dramatically improves MOT outcomes. Focus your efforts on the most common failure categories identified in 2024 DVSA data.

Tackle Electrical Issues Before Test Day

Walk around your vehicle weekly, checking every exterior light functions correctly: headlights (dipped and main beam), indicators, brake lights, fog lights, and number plate lamps. Replace failed bulbs immediately—don't wait for the MOT. Check your dashboard for persistent warning lights; ABS, airbag, and engine management lights all constitute MOT failures. If warning lights illuminate, book diagnostics promptly rather than hoping they'll disappear. Clean earth points and battery terminals annually to prevent corrosion-related electrical faults. For vehicles over ten years old, consider having a mechanic inspect wiring looms for chafing or corrosion, particularly in the engine bay and under the vehicle where road salt accelerates deterioration.

Maintain Suspension and Steering Components

Suspension wear develops gradually, making it easy to miss until it's severe enough to fail an MOT. Listen for knocking over bumps, which suggests worn bushes or ball joints. Check for uneven tyre wear patterns—worn inside or outside edges indicate suspension geometry issues requiring attention. Test steering for excessive play or unusual resistance. Book a suspension inspection annually, particularly if you drive frequently on poor road surfaces. Replacing worn bushes, drop links, and ball joints costs £200-500 at independent garages—far less than the inconvenience of MOT failure and retest. Shock absorbers should be replaced every 50,000-70,000 miles as a matter of course; worn dampers compromise handling and braking even before they leak visibly enough to fail an MOT.

Keep Brakes in Peak Condition

Brake system maintenance prevents the third most common failure category. Check brake fluid level monthly; a dropping level suggests worn pads or a leak requiring immediate attention. Listen for squealing, grinding, or pulsing when braking—all indicate worn or damaged components. Have brake pads and discs inspected at every service; replace pads before they wear to the backing plate, which damages expensive discs. Change brake fluid every two years; old fluid absorbs moisture, reducing braking performance and accelerating internal corrosion. If your vehicle sits unused for extended periods, exercise the brakes regularly to prevent seized calipers. For commercial vehicle operators or high-mileage drivers, consider common brakes problems on UK cars for detailed guidance on inspection intervals and replacement indicators.

Understanding the Data: Methodology and Limitations

The 2024 DVSA dataset analysed here covers millions of MOT tests conducted at approved testing stations across England, Scotland, and Wales. We've focused on makes recording at least 10,000 tests in 2024 to ensure statistical significance; smaller-volume manufacturers are excluded because low test numbers can skew percentages dramatically.

MOT pass rates measure roadworthiness at specific test points—they don't measure build quality, engineering excellence, or long-term durability. A vehicle can fail multiple MOTs yet remain fundamentally sound, requiring only inexpensive consumables like bulbs or wiper blades. Conversely, a vehicle might pass every MOT yet suffer catastrophic failures in systems the test doesn't scrutinise, like engine internals or gearboxes.

Fleet demographics heavily influence pass rates. Makes with older average fleet ages naturally record more age-related failures. Discontinued brands like Rover, Saab, and Daihatsu test only increasingly elderly vehicles, whilst current high-volume manufacturers test a broader age spectrum including many newer cars. Commercial vehicles face harsher operating conditions than private cars, making direct comparisons between LDV vans and passenger cars misleading.

For complete transparency on how we process DVSA records, calculate pass rates, and categorise faults, read our methodology behind our MOT data analysis. We publish our methods openly so readers can assess the data's relevance to their own circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do low MOT pass rates mean these cars are unreliable?

No. MOT pass rates measure roadworthiness at test points—lighting, brakes, suspension, emissions, and structural integrity—not overall reliability or build quality. A vehicle can fail MOTs for minor issues like bulbs or wiper blades yet remain mechanically sound. Conversely, it might pass every MOT but suffer engine or gearbox failures the test doesn't detect. Low pass rates often reflect fleet age, mileage patterns, and maintenance histories rather than inherent design flaws.

Should I avoid buying a used Renault or Citroen based on this data?

Not necessarily. These brands record lower pass rates partly because millions remain in daily use, many well beyond their first decade. Individual vehicle condition matters far more than brand averages. A well-maintained Renault with full service history may prove more dependable than a neglected vehicle from a statistically better-performing brand. Always inspect service records, check MOT history online, and commission a pre-purchase inspection before buying any used vehicle.

What's the most common reason for MOT failures on these makes?

Electrical faults dominate, accounting for 28.71% of failures across the bottom ten makes in 2024. Lighting defects, ABS warning lights, and wiring corrosion drive most electrical failures. Suspension issues follow at 22.06%, then brakes at 17.39%. Focusing pre-MOT checks on these three categories dramatically improves pass chances regardless of make.

How can I check my car's MOT history before buying?

Use the DVSA's free online MOT history checker at gov.uk/check-mot-history. Enter the vehicle registration number to view every MOT result since 2005, including failure reasons, mileage at each test, and advisory notices. This reveals whether previous owners maintained the vehicle properly and highlights recurring issues. Always verify MOT records before purchasing any used vehicle.

Local Insights

UK driving conditions—particularly road salt, potholes, and coastal humidity—accelerate wear on electrical, suspension, and brake components. Vehicles in Scotland and northern England face harsher winter conditions than southern regions, whilst coastal areas from Cornwall to Norfolk battle salt-air corrosion year-round. Urban vehicles accumulate short journeys that prevent batteries from fully charging, leading to electrical faults, whilst rural drivers navigate deteriorating B-roads that punish suspension systems. MOT testing standards remain consistent nationwide under DVSA oversight, but local environmental factors influence how quickly vehicles develop the age-related wear that triggers failures. Regardless of location, regular maintenance aligned with UK conditions—annual brake fluid changes, frequent lighting checks, and proactive suspension inspections—keeps vehicles road-legal longer.

Conclusion

Based on 34.2 million 2024 DVSA records, ten makes recorded MOT pass rates significantly below the UK average, led by Chevrolet at 55.35% and including high-volume brands like Renault and Citroen. Electrical faults, suspension wear, and brake system deterioration drive most failures—issues that proactive maintenance can prevent or catch early. Remember that these statistics reflect population averages; individual vehicle condition, maintenance history, and parts availability matter far more than brand rankings when choosing a used car. Whether you're maintaining a current vehicle or shopping for your next one, understanding common failure patterns helps you make informed decisions and budget appropriately for consumable replacements. Regular pre-MOT inspections focusing on lighting, brakes, and suspension components dramatically improve pass chances regardless of make. Find trusted garages specialising in your vehicle's make by searching our directory for highest MOT failure rate cars UK 2026 near you, and explore detailed fault data for every manufacturer in our DVSA data hub.