When it comes to MOT failures, many drivers immediately worry about worn tyres. According to new research from MoneySuperMarket, however, the most common reason cars fail their MOT isn't tyre tread. MoneySuperMarket's car insurance experts analysed over 209 million DVSA MOT failure records to uncover the most frequent faults across UK vehicles.
Using this data, they have created a Car MOT Fail Checker, which allows drivers to see the most common MOT issues for over 3,200 different car models. The data shows that handbrake efficiency below legal requirements is the biggest reason cars fail their MOT, with more than 9 million failures recorded since 2005.
Handbrake failure, where the brake isn't strong enough to safely hold a car, is a problem that often goes unnoticed, particularly when a car is parked on a flat surface, or if the car is left in gear when parked, and the issue then only becomes apparent during the test.
Tyre tread below the legal minimum of air 1.6mm remains a common MOT fail reason, but it ranks behind handbrake faults. Ineffective windscreen wipers and insufficient washer fluid are also frequent causes of failure, along with engine emissions faults such as an incorrect-to-fuel ratio.
Some car models are more prone to MOT failure than others, according to the new research. The Peugeot 207 tops the list, with diesel models failing at a rate of 34.71% and petrol models at 33.23%.
Other frequently failing models include the Peugeot 206, Citroen DS3, Fiat Punto, and Renault Megane. The most common faults vary by model. Peugeot 206 vehicles often fail due to tyre tread, handbrake efficiency, and exhaust emissions issues.
Citroen DS3 models frequently suffer from fractured rear coil springs, while Fiat Punto failures are typically due to handbrake inefficiency and worn front tyres.
Renault Megane owners often face MOT failures because of faulty windscreen wipers, and Ford Fiesta models commonly fail due to a handbrake that cannot safely hold the car.
On the other hand, some models are more likely to pass their MOT, the research found. The Toyota Rav4 and Porsche 911 consistently show high pass rates, making them among the most reliable cars when it comes to MOT success.
Alicia Hempsted, the car insurance expert at MoneySuperMarket said: "Your car failing its MOT can be a frustrating and costly experience, especially as it voids your car’s insurance.
"By analysing over 209 million MOT fail results, we’ve created a unique car MOT Fail Checker tool that helps drivers spot where the weaknesses for their specific car make and model may be and act before they become a headache on MOT test day.
"Whether it’s worn tyres or faulty handbrakes, we hope our new MOT checker puts drivers in the best position to make an informed choice, save money and stay safe on the road."
