At a Glance
The Austin 3 Litre has 0 identified common problems across 1 generation (1967–1971) and brakes the most common problem category. Based on 567 MOT tests from DVSA data.
Problems are patterns in the DVSA data that occur significantly more often on a specific model than the UK average — confirmed at 99% statistical confidence. Read our DVSA MOT data methodology →
Below: generation-by-generation comparison of Austin 3 Litre common problems, MOT failure types, and pass-rate data drawn from DVSA records. Click any generation to see fuel- and engine-specific fault patterns, mileage-banded repair guidance, and the most common MOT failures testers record.
MOT Tests & Failures by Generation
Austin 3 Litre generations by MOT tests, failures, and identified problems from DVSA data
Hover over each bar for a full breakdown. Tap any bar to view that generation's problems.
Showing total MOT tests, failures, and known problems per make. Hover over each bar for a full breakdown.
Tell Us About Your Problem
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Tell Us About Your Problem
Help other Austin 3 Litre owners — report a problem and we'll add it to the database
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Browse Austin 3 Litre Generations
Select a generation to see its specific problems, MOT failures and advisories
Most Common Austin 3 Litre MOT Failures
Every reason Austin 3 Litre vehicles fail their MOT, ranked by frequency. Select an individual year to see only that year’s failures, or stay on ‘All time’ for the combined picture across our 20 years of DVSA data. Scroll inside the table for the full list.
| # | Failure | % of failures |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Brake performance below minimum | 9.71% |
| 2 | Windscreen washer not working | 8.09% |
| 3 | Suspension mounting corroded | 6.80% |
| 4 | Exhaust system fault | 6.47% |
| 5 | Indicator fault | 6.15% |
| 6 | Wiper blades deteriorated | 6.15% |
| 7 | Headlamp aim defect | 5.50% |
| 8 | Steering rack fault | 5.18% |
| 9 | Stop lamp not working | 5.18% |
| 10 | Horn not working | 4.21% |
| 11 | Tyre condition | 4.21% |
| 12 | Brake hydraulic component worn | 3.24% |
| 13 | Driveshaft fault | 2.91% |
| 14 | Front lamp not working | 1.29% |
| 15 | Parking brake condition | 1.29% |
| 16 | Rear lamp not working | 1.29% |
| 17 | Rear suspension fault | 1.29% |
| 18 | Track rod end worn | 1.29% |
| 19 | Suspension joint or bush worn | 1.29% |
| 20 | Brake pedal fault | 0.97% |
| 21 | Brake wheel cylinder fault | 0.97% |
| 22 | Front suspension fault | 0.97% |
| 23 | Number plate lamp not working | 0.97% |
| 24 | Position lamp not working | 0.97% |
| 25 | Air suspension levelling valve fault | 0.65% |
| 26 | Brake disc or drum worn | 0.65% |
| 27 | Brake pedal movement restricted | 0.65% |
| 28 | Parking brake performance below minimum | 0.65% |
| 29 | Power steering pump fault | 0.65% |
| 30 | Power steering ram fault | 0.65% |
| 31 | Seat belt condition | 0.65% |
| 32 | Shock absorber worn or leaking | 0.65% |
| 33 | Steering free play excessive | 0.65% |
| 34 | Steering operation fault | 0.65% |
| 35 | Suspension unit fault | 0.65% |
| 36 | Tyre tread depth below limit | 0.65% |
| 37 | Battery loose or leaking | 0.32% |
| 38 | Body corrosion or damage | 0.32% |
| 39 | Brake fluid leak | 0.32% |
| 40 | Brake master cylinder or servo mounting fault | 0.32% |
| 41 | Brake pads or linings worn | 0.32% |
| 42 | Chassis condition | 0.32% |
| 43 | Flexible brake hose damaged | 0.32% |
| 44 | Headlamp fault | 0.32% |
| 45 | Hydraulic brake cylinder fault | 0.32% |
| 46 | Hydraulic suspension accumulator fault | 0.32% |
| 47 | Power steering pipe or hose leaking | 0.32% |
| 48 | Speedometer fault | 0.32% |
| 49 | Spring mounting corroded | 0.32% |
| 50 | Steering arm worn | 0.32% |
| 51 | Steering box fault | 0.32% |
| 52 | Steering column fault | 0.32% |
| 53 | Subframe mounting corroded | 0.32% |
| 54 | Steering coupling worn | 0.32% |
Showing all 54 reasons — scroll inside the table for the full list.
Austin 3 Litre MOT Failures by Category
Total MOT failure occurrences for the Austin 3 Litre, grouped by category. Same data as the failures table above — just sliced by category instead of fault title. Hover a slice for the top failures in each category.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Austin 3 Litre problems?
Based on analysis of 567 Austin 3 Litre MOT tests from DVSA data, we have 0 identified common problems across 1 generation. Brakes is the most common problem category.
Which Austin 3 Litre generation has the most problems?
We haven't identified significant problem patterns specific to any single generation of the Austin 3 Litre yet — either this is a well-engineered model across all its generations, or the sample size per generation is still small. Check individual generation pages for MOT failure and advisory breakdowns.
How is this data calculated?
We analyse anonymised DVSA MOT test records under the Open Government Licence. An issue is classified as a "Common Problem" when it occurs significantly more often on a specific model than the UK average, confirmed at 99% statistical confidence. Read the full methodology page for details.
Can I report a problem with my Austin 3 Litre?
Yes — use the "Tell Us About Your Problem" form on this page. Your report helps other Austin 3 Litre owners spot problems early. All submissions are reviewed before being added to the public database.
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