When it comes to owning a car in the UK, MOT tests are a yearly reality. But one question often arises among drivers — do MOT failures increase as cars get older? The short answer is yes. Data from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) clearly shows that older vehicles are more likely to fail their MOT compared to newer ones. Let’s explore why that happens and what owners can do to keep their ageing cars roadworthy.

The Data Behind MOT Failures

According to DVSA figures, the average MOT failure rate for cars over 10 years old is significantly higher than that of vehicles under 3 years old. For example, while newer cars often have a pass rate of around 85–90%, older models can drop to 50–60%, depending on how well they’re maintained.

This pattern reflects the natural wear and tear that occurs over time. Even with proper servicing, components like brakes, suspension, tyres, and lights degrade gradually, leading to more frequent failures during MOT inspections.

You can easily check your vehicle’s MOT history and see patterns of previous failures using CheckMot.com.

Common Reasons Older Cars Fail MOTs

As vehicles age, certain parts become more prone to damage or deterioration. Here are the most common failure points:

• Suspension and steering issues – Rust, wear, and damaged joints are frequent culprits.
• Brake efficiency – Brake discs and pads naturally wear down over time.
• Exhaust and emissions problems – Ageing engines may struggle to meet emission standards.
• Lighting faults – Corroded connections or worn bulbs often appear in older vehicles.
• Tyre condition – Cracks, uneven wear, or insufficient tread depth can lead to instant failure.

These problems don’t appear overnight but develop gradually, meaning regular checks can help catch issues early.

Why Older Cars Are Harder to Maintain

Maintenance costs tend to rise as cars age, not just due to more frequent repairs but also increasing difficulty sourcing parts for older models. Many drivers also reduce routine servicing as vehicles depreciate in value, which can accelerate deterioration and increase the likelihood of MOT failures.

Additionally, modern MOT tests are stricter, with enhanced checks for emissions and safety features, making it harder for ageing vehicles to pass without proper upkeep.

How to Improve MOT Pass Rates for Older Cars

Keeping your older car in top condition doesn’t have to be expensive. Simple preventive steps can make a big difference:

• Carry out regular maintenance checks before your MOT.
• Replace worn components promptly rather than delaying repairs.
• Keep your service history up to date to monitor recurring issues.
• Book a pre-MOT inspection to catch potential problems early.

With proper care, even a decade-old car can achieve a strong MOT record.

FAQs

1. Do older cars fail MOTs more often than new ones?

Yes. Older cars experience more wear and tear, leading to a higher risk of MOT failures.

2. What’s the most common reason older cars fail MOTs?

Lighting issues, brakes, and suspension faults are among the most common reasons.

3. Can regular servicing help older cars pass MOTs?

Absolutely. Regular servicing helps prevent small issues from turning into MOT failures.

4. Where can I check my car’s MOT history?

You can view your vehicle’s full MOT record and advisory notes at CheckMot.com.

Older cars can remain safe and reliable if properly maintained. Regular inspections, prompt repairs, and using tools like CheckMot.com help ensure your vehicle stays on the road — and out of the MOT failure list.