At a Glance
The Pontiac Catalina has 0 identified common problems across 5 generations (1959–1981) and suspension the most common problem category. Based on 241 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 Pontiac Catalina 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
Pontiac Catalina 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 Pontiac Catalina owners — report a problem and we'll add it to the database
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Browse Pontiac Catalina Generations
Select a generation to see its specific problems, MOT failures and advisories
First Generation
Most common MOT failure: Brake performance below minimum
Second Generation
Most common MOT failure: Brake performance below minimum
Third Generation
Most common MOT failure: Brake performance below minimum
Fourth Generation
Most common MOT failure: Number plate lamp not working
Fifth Generation
Most common MOT failure: Indicator fault
Most Common Pontiac Catalina MOT Failures
Every reason Pontiac Catalina 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 | 13.71% |
| 2 | Brake hydraulic component worn | 10.48% |
| 3 | Indicator fault | 8.06% |
| 4 | Suspension joint or bush worn | 6.45% |
| 5 | Wiper blades deteriorated | 5.65% |
| 6 | Horn not working | 4.84% |
| 7 | Stop lamp not working | 4.84% |
| 8 | Windscreen washer not working | 4.84% |
| 9 | Front lamp not working | 4.03% |
| 10 | Number plate lamp not working | 4.03% |
| 11 | Track rod end worn | 4.03% |
| 12 | Front suspension fault | 3.23% |
| 13 | Front suspension joint worn | 3.23% |
| 14 | Battery loose or leaking | 2.42% |
| 15 | Exhaust system fault | 2.42% |
| 16 | Mirror damaged or missing | 2.42% |
| 17 | Shock absorber worn or leaking | 2.42% |
| 18 | Steering box fault | 2.42% |
| 19 | Chassis condition | 1.61% |
| 20 | Rear lamp not working | 1.61% |
| 21 | Brake fluid leak | 0.81% |
| 22 | Drag link end worn | 0.81% |
| 23 | Power steering pipe or hose leaking | 0.81% |
| 24 | Rear suspension fault | 0.81% |
| 25 | Steering free play excessive | 0.81% |
| 26 | Steering intermediate drop arm worn | 0.81% |
| 27 | Tie bar or rod worn or corroded | 0.81% |
| 28 | Tyre condition | 0.81% |
| 29 | Headlamp aim defect | 0.81% |
Showing all 29 reasons — scroll inside the table for the full list.
Pontiac Catalina MOT Failures by Category
Total MOT failure occurrences for the Pontiac Catalina, 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 Pontiac Catalina problems?
Based on analysis of 241 Pontiac Catalina MOT tests from DVSA data, we have 0 identified common problems across 5 generations. Suspension is the most common problem category.
Which Pontiac Catalina generation has the most problems?
We haven't identified significant problem patterns specific to any single generation of the Pontiac Catalina 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 Pontiac Catalina?
Yes — use the "Tell Us About Your Problem" form on this page. Your report helps other Pontiac Catalina owners spot problems early. All submissions are reviewed before being added to the public database.
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