At a Glance
The Austin Cambridge has 5 identified common problems across 1 generation, with the Cambridge (1954-1971) being the most affected generation and suspension the most common problem category. Based on 6K 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 Cambridge 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 Cambridge 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 Cambridge owners — report a problem and we'll add it to the database
Tell Us About Your Problem
Help other Austin Cambridge owners — report a problem and we'll add it to the database
Looking for a garage to repair your Austin Cambridge?
Search our directory of 12,000+ UK garages by service and postcode — every garage has verified Google reviews.
Browse Austin Cambridge Generations
Select a generation to see its specific problems, MOT failures and advisories
Most Common Austin Cambridge MOT Failures
Every reason Austin Cambridge 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 | 11.76% |
| 2 | Headlamp aim defect | 5.95% |
| 3 | Chassis condition | 5.38% |
| 4 | Exhaust system fault | 5.34% |
| 5 | Number plate lamp not working | 4.73% |
| 6 | Indicator fault | 4.37% |
| 7 | Stop lamp not working | 4.29% |
| 8 | Windscreen washer not working | 3.90% |
| 9 | Wiper blades deteriorated | 3.79% |
| 10 | Brake hydraulic component worn | 3.46% |
| 11 | Shock absorber worn or leaking | 3.39% |
| 12 | Tyre condition | 3.35% |
| 13 | Suspension joint or bush worn | 3.17% |
| 14 | Body corrosion or damage | 3.14% |
| 15 | Front lamp not working | 2.78% |
| 16 | Suspension mounting corroded | 2.63% |
| 17 | Spring mounting corroded | 2.56% |
| 18 | King pin or swivel pin worn | 2.34% |
| 19 | Track rod end worn | 2.31% |
| 20 | Tyre tread depth below limit | 1.59% |
| 21 | Steering box fault | 1.55% |
| 22 | Rear lamp not working | 1.48% |
| 23 | Front suspension fault | 1.33% |
| 24 | Brake pedal movement restricted | 1.19% |
| 25 | Horn not working | 1.12% |
| 26 | Front suspension joint worn | 0.94% |
| 27 | Steering free play excessive | 0.94% |
| 28 | Brake fluid leak | 0.83% |
| 29 | Handbrake mechanism or mounting fault | 0.76% |
| 30 | Parking brake condition | 0.54% |
| 31 | Subframe mounting corroded | 0.54% |
| 32 | Fuel cap damaged or missing | 0.51% |
| 33 | Parking brake performance below minimum | 0.51% |
| 34 | Position lamp not working | 0.51% |
| 35 | Brake pedal fault | 0.47% |
| 36 | Leaf spring broken or corroded | 0.43% |
| 37 | Tyre size or type not matched | 0.36% |
| 38 | Securing bolts missing or insecure | 0.32% |
| 39 | Drag link end worn | 0.29% |
| 40 | Rear suspension fault | 0.29% |
| 41 | Fuel pipe corroded or damaged | 0.25% |
| 42 | Headlamp fault | 0.25% |
| 43 | Steering operation fault | 0.25% |
| 44 | Battery loose or leaking | 0.22% |
| 45 | Boot lid damaged or insecure | 0.22% |
| 46 | Brake wheel cylinder fault | 0.22% |
| 47 | Electrical wiring fault | 0.22% |
| 48 | Suspension arm worn or corroded | 0.22% |
| 49 | Suspension retaining or locking device fault | 0.22% |
| 50 | Towbar fault | 0.22% |
| 51 | Brake master cylinder or servo mounting fault | 0.18% |
| 52 | Fuel hose damaged or leaking | 0.14% |
| 53 | Handbrake cable fault | 0.14% |
| 54 | Mirror damaged or missing | 0.14% |
| 55 | Steering column fault | 0.14% |
| 56 | Steering intermediate drop arm worn | 0.14% |
| 57 | Suspension linkage fault | 0.14% |
| 58 | Anchor bracket corroded | 0.11% |
| 59 | Body security fault | 0.11% |
| 60 | Brake disc or drum worn | 0.11% |
| 61 | Brake lever fault | 0.11% |
| 62 | Seat belt condition | 0.11% |
| 63 | Tyre valve stem damaged | 0.11% |
| 64 | Rear reflector damaged or missing | 0.07% |
| 65 | Rigid brake pipe corroded or damaged | 0.07% |
| 66 | Speedometer fault | 0.07% |
| 67 | Steering wheel damaged or insecure | 0.07% |
| 68 | Vehicle structure corrosion | 0.07% |
| 69 | Axle beam corroded or cracked | 0.04% |
| 70 | Brake clevis joint worn | 0.04% |
| 71 | Brake valve fault | 0.04% |
| 72 | Bumper damaged or insecure | 0.04% |
| 73 | Flexible brake hose damaged | 0.04% |
| 74 | Fuel tank corroded or leaking | 0.04% |
| 75 | Hydraulic brake cylinder fault | 0.04% |
| 76 | Leaf spring shackle bracket corroded | 0.04% |
| 77 | Rear fog lamp not working | 0.04% |
| 78 | Spare wheel fault | 0.04% |
| 79 | Steering arm worn | 0.04% |
| 80 | Steering lock fault | 0.04% |
| 81 | Stub axle worn | 0.04% |
| 82 | Tailgate damaged or insecure | 0.04% |
| 83 | Windscreen damage affecting view | 0.04% |
Showing all 83 reasons — scroll inside the table for the full list.
Austin Cambridge MOT Failures by Category
Total MOT failure occurrences for the Austin Cambridge, 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.
Join as a car owner — free
Get MOT reminders, a pre-MOT checklist, and tools to compare garages near you.
MOT Reminders
Free email alerts 28 and 7 days before your MOT expires.
44-Point MOT Checklist
Printable checklist to inspect your car before the test.
Save Favourite Garages
Save garages you trust and compare their ratings side by side.
Already a member? Sign in
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common Austin Cambridge problems?
Based on analysis of 6K Austin Cambridge MOT tests from DVSA data, we have 5 identified common problems across 1 generation. The most frequently flagged issue is "Brake performance below minimum". Suspension is the most common problem category.
Which Austin Cambridge generation has the most problems?
The Austin Cambridge Cambridge (1954-1971) (1954–1971) has the highest number of identified common problems (6). Click the generation card above for the full breakdown.
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 Cambridge?
Yes — use the "Tell Us About Your Problem" form on this page. Your report helps other Austin Cambridge owners spot problems early. All submissions are reviewed before being added to the public database.
Search Vehicles With Common Problems
Find common car problems, MOT failures, and advisories for any make and model
