At a Glance
The Subaru Xv has 3 identified common problems across 2 generations, with the GP (2012-2017) being the most affected generation and brakes the most common problem category. Based on 37K 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 Subaru Xv 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
Subaru Xv 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.
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Help other Subaru Xv owners — report a problem and we'll add it to the database
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Most Common Subaru Xv MOT Failures
Every reason Subaru Xv 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 | Wiper blades deteriorated | 10.98% |
| 2 | Brake pads or linings worn | 10.37% |
| 3 | Suspension joint or bush worn | 10.05% |
| 4 | Stop lamp not working | 8.53% |
| 5 | Position lamp not working | 6.97% |
| 6 | Tyre condition | 6.69% |
| 7 | Tyre tread depth below limit | 5.30% |
| 8 | Number plate lamp not working | 4.26% |
| 9 | Brake performance below minimum | 4.03% |
| 10 | Brake disc or drum worn | 3.54% |
| 11 | Windscreen washer not working | 2.48% |
| 12 | Wheel bearing worn | 2.41% |
| 13 | Headlamp fault | 1.74% |
| 14 | Ball joint dust cover split | 1.58% |
| 15 | Tyre pressure monitoring system fault | 1.45% |
| 16 | Driveshaft fault | 1.44% |
| 17 | Exhaust system fault | 1.34% |
| 18 | Windscreen damage affecting view | 1.33% |
| 19 | Compression ignition emissions above threshold | 1.32% |
| 20 | Spark ignition emissions above threshold | 1.14% |
| 21 | Rigid brake pipe corroded or damaged | 1.10% |
| 22 | Coil spring broken or corroded | 1.03% |
| 23 | Rear fog lamp not working | 1.03% |
| 24 | Shock absorber worn or leaking | 0.69% |
| 25 | Seat belt condition | 0.65% |
| 26 | Headlamp washer not working | 0.61% |
| 27 | Parking brake performance below minimum | 0.60% |
| 28 | Indicator fault | 0.59% |
| 29 | Electronic stability control fault | 0.55% |
| 30 | Track rod end worn | 0.53% |
| 31 | Horn not working | 0.48% |
| 32 | Headlamp aim defect | 0.40% |
| 33 | Bonnet catch or hinge fault | 0.34% |
| 34 | ABS fault | 0.29% |
| 35 | Brake pedal fault | 0.25% |
| 36 | Mirror damaged or missing | 0.24% |
| 37 | Airbag warning light on | 0.23% |
| 38 | Headlamp levelling device fault | 0.22% |
| 39 | Fog lamp not working | 0.21% |
| 40 | Brake lever fault | 0.20% |
| 41 | Flexible brake hose damaged | 0.20% |
| 42 | Front lamp not working | 0.20% |
| 43 | Front suspension joint worn | 0.20% |
| 44 | Bumper damaged or insecure | 0.18% |
| 45 | Battery loose or leaking | 0.17% |
| 46 | Handbrake lever fault | 0.16% |
| 47 | Suspension linkage fault | 0.16% |
| 48 | Electric power steering fault | 0.11% |
| 49 | Steering lock fault | 0.10% |
| 50 | Tyre size or type not matched | 0.10% |
| 51 | Catalytic converter efficiency low | 0.09% |
| 52 | Front fog lamp not working | 0.09% |
| 53 | Rear lamp not working | 0.07% |
| 54 | Reversing lamp not working | 0.07% |
| 55 | Propshaft fault | 0.06% |
| 56 | MacPherson strut worn | 0.06% |
| 57 | Suspension mounting corroded | 0.06% |
| 58 | Fuel tank corroded or leaking | 0.04% |
| 59 | Rear suspension fault | 0.04% |
| 60 | Brake caliper fault | 0.03% |
| 61 | Brake hydraulic component worn | 0.03% |
| 62 | Brake pedal movement restricted | 0.03% |
| 63 | Chassis condition | 0.03% |
| 64 | Engine oil leak | 0.03% |
| 65 | Steering rack fault | 0.03% |
| 66 | Suspension arm worn or corroded | 0.03% |
| 67 | Towbar fault | 0.03% |
| 68 | Access panel damaged or insecure | 0.02% |
| 69 | Anti-roll bar worn or corroded | 0.02% |
| 70 | Boot lid damaged or insecure | 0.02% |
| 71 | Brake fluid reservoir fault | 0.02% |
| 72 | Daytime running lamp not working | 0.02% |
| 73 | Drag link end worn | 0.02% |
| 74 | Electrical switch fault | 0.02% |
| 75 | Electrical wiring fault | 0.02% |
| 76 | Front suspension fault | 0.02% |
| 77 | Parking brake condition | 0.02% |
| 78 | Rear reflector damaged or missing | 0.02% |
| 79 | Steering arm worn | 0.02% |
| 80 | Undertray damaged or missing | 0.02% |
| 81 | Brake cable, rod, lever or linkage fault | 0.01% |
| 82 | Brake fluid level low or contaminated | 0.01% |
| 83 | Dashboard warning lamp fault | 0.01% |
| 84 | Dip switch fault | 0.01% |
| 85 | Electronic braking system fault | 0.01% |
| 86 | Exhaust heat shield or sound insulation damaged | 0.01% |
| 87 | Front passenger door fault | 0.01% |
| 88 | Load sensing valve fault | 0.01% |
| 89 | Outline marker lamp not working | 0.01% |
| 90 | Trailing arm worn or corroded | 0.01% |
| 91 | Transmission drive belt fault | 0.01% |
| 92 | Transmission oil leak | 0.01% |
| 93 | Vehicle structure corrosion | 0.01% |
Showing all 93 reasons — scroll inside the table for the full list.
Subaru Xv MOT Failures by Category
Total MOT failure occurrences for the Subaru Xv, 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 Subaru Xv problems?
Based on analysis of 37K Subaru Xv MOT tests from DVSA data, we have 3 identified common problems across 2 generations. The most frequently flagged issue is "Ball joint worn". Brakes is the most common problem category.
Which Subaru Xv generation has the most problems?
The Subaru Xv GP (2012-2017) (2012–2017) has the highest number of identified common problems (3). 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 Subaru Xv?
Yes — use the "Tell Us About Your Problem" form on this page. Your report helps other Subaru Xv owners spot problems early. All submissions are reviewed before being added to the public database.
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