At a Glance
The Austin 8 has 0 identified common problems across 1 generation (1939–1947) and suspension the most common problem category. Based on 2K 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 8 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 8 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
Help other Austin 8 owners — report a problem and we'll add it to the database
Tell Us About Your Problem
Help other Austin 8 owners — report a problem and we'll add it to the database
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Browse Austin 8 Generations
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Most Common Austin 8 MOT Failures
Every reason Austin 8 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 | 14.41% |
| 2 | Stop lamp not working | 7.83% |
| 3 | Suspension mounting corroded | 6.96% |
| 4 | Headlamp aim defect | 4.84% |
| 5 | Windscreen washer not working | 4.22% |
| 6 | Steering rack fault | 4.10% |
| 7 | Suspension joint or bush worn | 4.10% |
| 8 | Wiper blades deteriorated | 3.85% |
| 9 | Brake hydraulic component worn | 3.73% |
| 10 | Chassis condition | 3.60% |
| 11 | Spring mounting corroded | 3.35% |
| 12 | Indicator fault | 2.98% |
| 13 | Horn not working | 2.86% |
| 14 | Number plate lamp not working | 2.48% |
| 15 | Front suspension joint worn | 2.36% |
| 16 | Exhaust system fault | 2.11% |
| 17 | Body corrosion or damage | 1.86% |
| 18 | Front suspension fault | 1.86% |
| 19 | Shock absorber worn or leaking | 1.86% |
| 20 | Front lamp not working | 1.61% |
| 21 | Track rod end worn | 1.61% |
| 22 | Tyre condition | 1.61% |
| 23 | Rear lamp not working | 1.24% |
| 24 | Parking brake condition | 1.12% |
| 25 | Brake pedal fault | 0.87% |
| 26 | Brake pedal movement restricted | 0.87% |
| 27 | Tyre tread depth below limit | 0.87% |
| 28 | Steering column fault | 0.75% |
| 29 | Battery loose or leaking | 0.62% |
| 30 | Brake fluid leak | 0.62% |
| 31 | Steering lock fault | 0.50% |
| 32 | Steering operation fault | 0.50% |
| 33 | Steering wheel damaged or insecure | 0.50% |
| 34 | Tyre size or type not matched | 0.50% |
| 35 | King pin or swivel pin worn | 0.50% |
| 36 | Brake master cylinder or servo mounting fault | 0.37% |
| 37 | Fuel cap damaged or missing | 0.37% |
| 38 | Rear reflector damaged or missing | 0.37% |
| 39 | Spark ignition emissions above threshold | 0.37% |
| 40 | Brake wheel cylinder fault | 0.25% |
| 41 | Electrical wiring fault | 0.25% |
| 42 | Exhaust emissions above threshold (non-catalyst) | 0.25% |
| 43 | Fuel tank corroded or leaking | 0.25% |
| 44 | Handbrake mechanism or mounting fault | 0.25% |
| 45 | Leaf spring broken or corroded | 0.25% |
| 46 | Leaf spring slipper worn | 0.25% |
| 47 | Seat belt condition | 0.25% |
| 48 | Steering shaft fault | 0.25% |
| 49 | Suspension arm worn or corroded | 0.25% |
| 50 | Anti-roll bar worn or corroded | 0.12% |
| 51 | Body security fault | 0.12% |
| 52 | Bonnet catch or hinge fault | 0.12% |
| 53 | Brake linkage mounting fault | 0.12% |
| 54 | Dashboard warning lamp fault | 0.12% |
| 55 | Driveshaft fault | 0.12% |
| 56 | Electrical switch fault | 0.12% |
| 57 | Fog lamp not working | 0.12% |
| 58 | Fuel pipe corroded or damaged | 0.12% |
| 59 | Handbrake cable fault | 0.12% |
| 60 | Headlamp fault | 0.12% |
| 61 | Leaf spring shackle bracket corroded | 0.12% |
| 62 | Mirror damaged or missing | 0.12% |
| 63 | Position lamp not working | 0.12% |
| 64 | Power steering ram fault | 0.12% |
| 65 | Steering box fault | 0.12% |
| 66 | Steering free play excessive | 0.12% |
| 67 | Suspension retaining or locking device fault | 0.12% |
| 68 | Tie bar or rod worn or corroded | 0.12% |
Showing all 68 reasons — scroll inside the table for the full list.
Austin 8 MOT Failures by Category
Total MOT failure occurrences for the Austin 8, 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 8 problems?
Based on analysis of 2K Austin 8 MOT tests from DVSA data, we have 0 identified common problems across 1 generation. Suspension is the most common problem category.
Which Austin 8 generation has the most problems?
We haven't identified significant problem patterns specific to any single generation of the Austin 8 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 8?
Yes — use the "Tell Us About Your Problem" form on this page. Your report helps other Austin 8 owners spot problems early. All submissions are reviewed before being added to the public database.
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