Popular family hatchback named most likely to fail next MOT, with a 56 percent pass rate

According to a new study, owners of a popular French supermini are most likely to fail their next MOT, with other well-known small cars also at risk.

Mechanic uses analysis device to inspect vehicle

The study looked at MOT data from 2023 to find the models most likely to fail their next test (Image: Getty)

The car finance company Zuto has shared a list of the vehicles that are most likely to fail their next MOT test.

A necessary part of keeping a car on the road, the annual MOT can cause some drivers to get particularly concerned, not least because it could reveal some expensive damage.

Andrew Hockenhull, Director at HKO Vehicles Ltd, a used car dealership working in partnership with Zuto Car Finance, noted that the best way to increase the chances of passing an MOT is by keeping on top of servicing requirements.

He advised: "Regular maintenance is key to keeping your car running smoothly and avoiding costly repairs down the road.

"By staying proactive with maintenance and addressing issues promptly, you can avoid costly repairs and keep your car in top condition throughout the year."

Three quarter view of a red Renault Clio on road

Zuto Car Finance found the Renault Clio was most likely to fail an upcoming MOT (Image: Getty)

According to Zuto Car Finance's study, which analysed test data from January to December 2023, the vehicle that is least likely to pass its next MOT is the Renault Clio.

A mainstay in the French brand's range since 1990, the little Clio is typically a popular purchase as it offers good fuel economy and value for money.

The consumer group and motoring publication What Car? suggested that Clios mostly tend to suffer from suspension issues, urging owners to listen out for any knocking or banging when driving.

Silver Vauxhall Corsa drives down a country road

Other long-running models, including the Vauxhall Corsa and Nissan Micra, also have a high fail rate (Image: Getty)

Generally, the cars that tend to fare the worst during their MOT are popular superminis, with the Vauxhall Corsa and Nissan Micra also featuring in the top five.

Much like the Clio, these two models have also experienced a lengthy production run, meaning many of the examples being tested could be older than average.

Similarly, the study also found that considerable numbers of Ford Transit and Volkswagen Transporter vans failed their MOTs during 2023, most likely due to the higher mileage that these vehicles cover in their lifetimes.

Top five cars most likely to fail their next MOT (fail rate):

  1. Renault Clio - 44 percent
  2. Vauxhall Corsa - 42 percent
  3. Ford Transit - 41 percent
  4. Volkswagen Transporter - 41 percent
  5. Nissan Micra - 40 percent

Would you like to receive news notifications from Daily Express?