At a Glance
The Talbot Samba has 1 identified common problems across 1 generation, with the Samba (1981-1986) being the most affected generation and brakes the most common problem category. Based on 860 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 Talbot Samba 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
Talbot Samba 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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Tell Us About Your Problem
Help other Talbot Samba owners — report a problem and we'll add it to the database
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Browse Talbot Samba Generations
Select a generation to see its specific problems, MOT failures and advisories
Most Common Talbot Samba MOT Failures
Every reason Talbot Samba 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 | 12.56% |
| 2 | Suspension mounting corroded | 9.32% |
| 3 | Brake hydraulic component worn | 6.48% |
| 4 | Body corrosion or damage | 4.81% |
| 5 | Wiper blades deteriorated | 4.71% |
| 6 | Headlamp aim defect | 4.51% |
| 7 | Exhaust emissions above threshold (non-catalyst) | 4.22% |
| 8 | Exhaust system fault | 3.34% |
| 9 | Indicator fault | 3.24% |
| 10 | Windscreen washer not working | 3.24% |
| 11 | Tyre condition | 3.04% |
| 12 | Driveshaft fault | 2.94% |
| 13 | Suspension joint or bush worn | 2.94% |
| 14 | Tyre tread depth below limit | 2.65% |
| 15 | Front lamp not working | 2.55% |
| 16 | Stop lamp not working | 2.45% |
| 17 | Number plate lamp not working | 2.36% |
| 18 | Rear suspension fault | 2.26% |
| 19 | Fog lamp not working | 2.06% |
| 20 | Chassis condition | 1.67% |
| 21 | Subframe mounting corroded | 1.47% |
| 22 | Battery loose or leaking | 1.18% |
| 23 | Rear lamp not working | 1.18% |
| 24 | Brake pads or linings worn | 1.08% |
| 25 | Brake pedal movement restricted | 1.08% |
| 26 | Position lamp not working | 0.98% |
| 27 | Track rod end worn | 0.98% |
| 28 | Steering coupling worn | 0.88% |
| 29 | Dashboard warning lamp fault | 0.79% |
| 30 | Steering rack fault | 0.69% |
| 31 | Vehicle structure corrosion | 0.69% |
| 32 | Horn not working | 0.59% |
| 33 | Headlamp fault | 0.49% |
| 34 | Mirror damaged or missing | 0.49% |
| 35 | Electrical switch fault | 0.39% |
| 36 | Front suspension fault | 0.39% |
| 37 | Seat belt condition | 0.39% |
| 38 | Spark ignition emissions above threshold | 0.39% |
| 39 | Spring mounting corroded | 0.39% |
| 40 | Brake fluid leak | 0.29% |
| 41 | Fuel cap damaged or missing | 0.29% |
| 42 | Fuel pipe corroded or damaged | 0.29% |
| 43 | Parking brake performance below minimum | 0.29% |
| 44 | Rear fog lamp not working | 0.29% |
| 45 | Driver seat fault | 0.20% |
| 46 | Fuel hose damaged or leaking | 0.20% |
| 47 | Shock absorber worn or leaking | 0.20% |
| 48 | Steering free play excessive | 0.20% |
| 49 | Tyre size or type not matched | 0.20% |
| 50 | Wheel bearing worn | 0.20% |
| 51 | Ball joint dust cover split | 0.20% |
| 52 | Brake disc or drum worn | 0.10% |
| 53 | Brake master cylinder or servo mounting fault | 0.10% |
| 54 | Engine oil leak | 0.10% |
| 55 | Flexible brake hose damaged | 0.10% |
| 56 | Fuel tank corroded or leaking | 0.10% |
| 57 | Handbrake cable fault | 0.10% |
| 58 | Parking brake condition | 0.10% |
| 59 | Passenger seat fault | 0.10% |
| 60 | Rigid brake pipe corroded or damaged | 0.10% |
| 61 | Steering column fault | 0.10% |
| 62 | Steering lock fault | 0.10% |
| 63 | Vehicle floor corroded | 0.10% |
| 64 | Windscreen damage affecting view | 0.10% |
Showing all 64 reasons — scroll inside the table for the full list.
Talbot Samba MOT Failures by Category
Total MOT failure occurrences for the Talbot Samba, 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 Talbot Samba problems?
Based on analysis of 860 Talbot Samba MOT tests from DVSA data, we have 1 identified common problems across 1 generation. The most frequently flagged issue is "Windscreen washer not working". Brakes is the most common problem category.
Which Talbot Samba generation has the most problems?
The Talbot Samba Samba (1981-1986) (1981–1986) has the highest number of identified common problems (1). 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 Talbot Samba?
Yes — use the "Tell Us About Your Problem" form on this page. Your report helps other Talbot Samba owners spot problems early. All submissions are reviewed before being added to the public database.
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