At a Glance
The Vauxhall Astra has 9 identified common problems across 8 generations, with the Mk3 (1991-1998) being the most affected generation and brakes the most common problem category. Based on 18.0M 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 Vauxhall Astra 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
Vauxhall Astra 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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Browse Vauxhall Astra Generations
Select a generation to see its specific problems, MOT failures and advisories
Mk1
Most common MOT failure: Suspension component mounting corroded
Mk2
Most common MOT failure: Suspension component mounting corroded
Mk3
Top issue: Handbrake mechanism or mounting fault
Mk4
Most common MOT failure: Brake hydraulic component worn
Mk5
Most common MOT failure: Coil spring broken or corroded
Mk6
Top issue: Fuel cap damaged or missing
Mk7
Top issue: Steering column fault
Mk8
Most common MOT failure: Tyre condition
Most Common Vauxhall Astra MOT Failures
Every reason Vauxhall Astra 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 | Coil spring broken or corroded | 8.31% |
| 2 | Brake hydraulic component worn | 8.12% |
| 3 | Tyre tread depth below limit | 7.62% |
| 4 | Suspension joint or bush worn | 5.90% |
| 5 | Tyre condition | 4.81% |
| 6 | Wiper blades deteriorated | 4.69% |
| 7 | Number plate lamp not working | 4.46% |
| 8 | Stop lamp not working | 4.41% |
| 9 | Exhaust system fault | 4.20% |
| 10 | Windscreen washer not working | 4.08% |
| 11 | Brake performance below minimum | 3.79% |
| 12 | Headlamp aim defect | 3.61% |
| 13 | Front lamp not working | 3.35% |
| 14 | Catalytic converter efficiency low | 2.68% |
| 15 | Brake pads or linings worn | 2.59% |
| 16 | Track rod end worn | 1.93% |
| 17 | Brake disc or drum worn | 1.68% |
| 18 | Spark ignition emissions above threshold | 1.42% |
| 19 | Shock absorber worn or leaking | 1.40% |
| 20 | Headlamp fault | 1.37% |
| 21 | Position lamp not working | 1.24% |
| 22 | Driveshaft fault | 1.16% |
| 23 | Parking brake performance below minimum | 1.10% |
| 24 | Horn not working | 0.78% |
| 25 | Rigid brake pipe corroded or damaged | 0.77% |
| 26 | Mirror damaged or missing | 0.76% |
| 27 | MacPherson strut worn | 0.72% |
| 28 | Rear lamp not working | 0.69% |
| 29 | Suspension mounting corroded | 0.67% |
| 30 | Indicator fault | 0.66% |
| 31 | Ball joint dust cover split | 0.62% |
| 32 | Windscreen damage affecting view | 0.59% |
| 33 | Battery loose or leaking | 0.57% |
| 34 | Body corrosion or damage | 0.49% |
| 35 | Seat belt condition | 0.48% |
| 36 | Rear suspension fault | 0.47% |
| 37 | ABS fault | 0.39% |
| 38 | Suspension linkage fault | 0.39% |
| 39 | Front suspension joint worn | 0.38% |
| 40 | Tyre size or type not matched | 0.37% |
| 41 | Fog lamp not working | 0.37% |
| 42 | Compression ignition emissions above threshold | 0.36% |
| 43 | Fuel cap damaged or missing | 0.32% |
| 44 | Parking brake condition | 0.32% |
| 45 | Brake pedal fault | 0.27% |
| 46 | King pin or swivel pin worn | 0.24% |
| 47 | Front suspension fault | 0.24% |
| 48 | Flexible brake hose damaged | 0.22% |
| 49 | Steering rack fault | 0.20% |
| 50 | Airbag warning light on | 0.20% |
| 51 | Chassis condition | 0.16% |
| 52 | Subframe mounting corroded | 0.16% |
| 53 | Tyre pressure monitoring system fault | 0.16% |
| 54 | Brake fluid leak | 0.13% |
| 55 | Bonded suspension condition | 0.13% |
| 56 | Steering arm worn | 0.12% |
| 57 | Engine oil leak | 0.12% |
| 58 | Spring mounting corroded | 0.12% |
| 59 | Rear fog lamp not working | 0.12% |
| 60 | Wheel bearing worn | 0.11% |
| 61 | Handbrake cable fault | 0.10% |
| 62 | Electronic stability control fault | 0.10% |
| 63 | Electrical switch fault | 0.10% |
| 64 | Fuel pipe corroded or damaged | 0.09% |
| 65 | Brake caliper fault | 0.09% |
| 66 | Steering free play excessive | 0.07% |
| 67 | Brake pedal movement restricted | 0.07% |
| 68 | Rear reflector damaged or missing | 0.06% |
| 69 | Drag link end worn | 0.06% |
| 70 | Bumper damaged or insecure | 0.06% |
| 71 | Dashboard warning lamp fault | 0.05% |
| 72 | Tyre valve stem damaged | 0.05% |
| 73 | CV joint worn | 0.05% |
| 74 | Brake cable, rod, lever or linkage fault | 0.05% |
| 75 | Engine mounting worn or broken | 0.05% |
| 76 | Brake lever fault | 0.05% |
| 77 | Fuel hose damaged or leaking | 0.05% |
| 78 | Vehicle structure corrosion | 0.05% |
| 79 | Fuel tank corroded or leaking | 0.05% |
| 80 | Brake fluid level low or contaminated | 0.04% |
| 81 | Anti-roll bar worn or corroded | 0.04% |
| 82 | Body security fault | 0.04% |
| 83 | Electrical wiring fault | 0.04% |
| 84 | Headlamp levelling device fault | 0.04% |
| 85 | Suspension arm worn or corroded | 0.04% |
| 86 | Exhaust emissions above threshold (non-catalyst) | 0.03% |
| 87 | Bonnet catch or hinge fault | 0.03% |
| 88 | Steering column fault | 0.03% |
| 89 | Brake air or vacuum system fault | 0.03% |
| 90 | Subframe corrosion or damage | 0.03% |
| 91 | Power steering ram fault | 0.03% |
| 92 | Power steering pipe or hose leaking | 0.03% |
| 93 | Reversing lamp not working | 0.02% |
| 94 | Steering operation fault | 0.02% |
| 95 | Handbrake lever fault | 0.02% |
| 96 | Power steering pump fault | 0.02% |
| 97 | Brake wheel cylinder fault | 0.02% |
| 98 | Load sensing valve fault | 0.02% |
| 99 | Steering wheel damaged or insecure | 0.02% |
| 100 | Steering lock fault | 0.02% |
| 101 | Handbrake mechanism or mounting fault | 0.02% |
| 102 | Front passenger door fault | 0.01% |
| 103 | Tie bar or rod worn or corroded | 0.01% |
| 104 | Driver airbag fault | 0.01% |
| 105 | Undertray damaged or missing | 0.01% |
| 106 | Suspension unit fault | 0.01% |
| 107 | Driver seat fault | 0.01% |
| 108 | Electronic parking brake fault | 0.01% |
| 109 | Suspension retaining or locking device fault | 0.01% |
| 110 | Boot lid damaged or insecure | 0.01% |
| 111 | Exhaust leak | 0.01% |
| 112 | Brake fluid warning light on | <0.01% |
| 113 | Brake back plate corroded or damaged | <0.01% |
| 114 | Hydraulic brake cylinder fault | <0.01% |
| 115 | Passenger seat fault | <0.01% |
| 116 | Driver door fault | <0.01% |
| 117 | Tailgate damaged or insecure | <0.01% |
| 118 | Propshaft fault | <0.01% |
| 119 | Brake fluid reservoir fault | <0.01% |
| 120 | Steering drive system fault | <0.01% |
| 121 | Speedometer fault | <0.01% |
| 122 | Axle corroded or damaged | <0.01% |
| 123 | Mirror or camera fault | <0.01% |
| 124 | Electric power steering fault | <0.01% |
| 125 | Axle beam corroded or cracked | <0.01% |
| 126 | Towbar fault | <0.01% |
| 127 | Rear fog lamp warning light fault | <0.01% |
| 128 | Daytime running lamp not working | <0.01% |
| 129 | Seat belt pre-tensioner fault | <0.01% |
| 130 | Brake servo fault | <0.01% |
| 131 | Steering coupling worn | <0.01% |
| 132 | Dip switch fault | <0.01% |
| 133 | Transmission oil leak | <0.01% |
| 134 | Brake master cylinder or servo mounting fault | <0.01% |
| 135 | Window damaged or won't operate | <0.01% |
| 136 | Hydraulic fluid leak | <0.01% |
| 137 | Brake pressure or vacuum buildup insufficient | <0.01% |
| 138 | Steering shaft fault | <0.01% |
| 139 | Suspension linkage attachment bracket or mounting corroded | <0.01% |
| 140 | Front fog lamp not working | <0.01% |
| 141 | Brake valve fault | <0.01% |
| 142 | Electronic braking system fault | <0.01% |
| 143 | Stub axle worn | <0.01% |
| 144 | Additional braking device fault | <0.01% |
| 145 | Steering box fault | <0.01% |
| 146 | Brake relay lever fault | <0.01% |
| 147 | Indicator warning light fault | <0.01% |
| 148 | Main beam warning light fault | <0.01% |
| 149 | Suspension rod worn or corroded | <0.01% |
| 150 | Passenger airbag fault | <0.01% |
| 151 | Exhaust heat shield or sound insulation damaged | <0.01% |
| 152 | Headlamp washer not working | <0.01% |
| 153 | Brake master cylinder fault | <0.01% |
| 154 | Universal joint worn | <0.01% |
| 155 | Reversing lamp switch fault | <0.01% |
| 156 | Outline marker lamp not working | <0.01% |
| 157 | Spare wheel fault | <0.01% |
| 158 | Semaphore indicator fault | <0.01% |
| 159 | Brake linkage mounting fault | <0.01% |
| 160 | Vehicle floor corroded | <0.01% |
| 161 | Steering intermediate drop arm worn | <0.01% |
| 162 | Steering damper fault | <0.01% |
| 163 | Seat belt or padding damaged | <0.01% |
| 164 | Torsion bar worn or corroded | <0.01% |
| 165 | Transmission drive belt fault | <0.01% |
| 166 | Seat belt anchorage fault | <0.01% |
| 167 | Leaf spring broken or corroded | <0.01% |
| 168 | Brake stationary pin worn | <0.01% |
| 169 | Access panel damaged or insecure | <0.01% |
| 170 | Hand-operated brake valve condition | <0.01% |
| 171 | Suspension coupling worn | <0.01% |
| 172 | Body strengthening plate corroded | <0.01% |
| 173 | Hazard warning light fault | <0.01% |
| 174 | Trailing arm worn or corroded | <0.01% |
| 175 | Halfshaft fault | <0.01% |
| 176 | Wheel hub fault | <0.01% |
| 177 | Brake slack adjuster fault | <0.01% |
| 178 | Radius arm worn or corroded | <0.01% |
| 179 | Loading door damaged or insecure | <0.01% |
| 180 | Full power hydraulic brake fault | <0.01% |
| 181 | Passenger compartment corrosion | <0.01% |
| 182 | Brake clevis joint worn | <0.01% |
| 183 | Brake pedal linkage fault | <0.01% |
| 184 | Torque or reaction arm worn | <0.01% |
| 185 | Panhard rod worn or corroded | <0.01% |
| 186 | Steering lock stop fault | <0.01% |
| 187 | Seat belt load limiter fault | <0.01% |
| 188 | Anchor bracket corroded | <0.01% |
| 189 | Speed limiter fault | <0.01% |
| 190 | Hydraulic suspension accumulator fault | <0.01% |
| 191 | Steering head bearings worn | <0.01% |
| 192 | Air brake cylinder or actuator fault | <0.01% |
| 193 | Dropside damaged or insecure | <0.01% |
| 194 | Hinged tailboard damaged or insecure | <0.01% |
| 195 | Suspension air bellows damaged | <0.01% |
| 196 | Leaf spring shackle bracket corroded | <0.01% |
| 197 | Securing bolts missing or insecure | <0.01% |
| 198 | Air suspension levelling valve fault | <0.01% |
| 199 | Cab corrosion or damage | <0.01% |
| 200 | Spring saddle corroded | <0.01% |
| 201 | Handbrake fails on gradient | <0.01% |
| 202 | Chain drive fault | <0.01% |
| 203 | Leaf spring eye worn or broken | <0.01% |
Showing all 203 reasons — scroll inside the table for the full list.
Vauxhall Astra MOT Failures by Category
Total MOT failure occurrences for the Vauxhall Astra, 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 Vauxhall Astra problems?
Based on analysis of 18.0M Vauxhall Astra MOT tests from DVSA data, we have 9 identified common problems across 8 generations. The most frequently flagged issue is "Handbrake mechanism or mounting fault". Brakes is the most common problem category.
Which Vauxhall Astra generation has the most problems?
The Vauxhall Astra Mk3 (1991-1998) (1991–1998) 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 Vauxhall Astra?
Yes — use the "Tell Us About Your Problem" form on this page. Your report helps other Vauxhall Astra owners spot problems early. All submissions are reviewed before being added to the public database.
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