Austin common problems and MOT failures
From 10,382 MOT tests in 2024, 19.7% of Austin vehicles failed. Below are the most common reasons, ranked by how often they occur.
Top Austin MOT failure reasons
| # | Problem | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | emissions levels exceed default limits | 582 |
| 2 | the strength or continuity of the load bearing structure within 30cm of any sub-frame, spring or suspension component mounting (a 'prescribed area') is significantly reduced or inadequately repaired | 348 |
| 3 | the aim of a headlamp is not within limits the requirements | 305 |
| 4 | headlamp or light source missing, inoperative or more than ½ not functioning in the case of led | 276 |
| 5 | lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning | 269 |
| 6 | brakes imbalance across an axle such that the braking effort from any wheel is less than 70% of the maximum effort recorded from the other wheel on the same axle. | 269 |
| 7 | windscreen washers not working or not providing sufficient fluid to clear the windscreen | 250 |
| 8 | suspension pin, bush or joint worn | 228 |
| 9 | steering rack gaiter or ball joint dust cover missing or no longer prevents the ingress of dirt etc | 224 |
| 10 | an obligatory rear fog lamp missing, or a front or rear fog lamp inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning | 215 |
What this means if you're buying a Austin
The single most common MOT failure for Austin is emissions levels exceed default limits, accounting for 20% of all failure items.
These figures are from real MOT inspections — they show what testers actually find wrong with Austin vehicles. If you're viewing a used Austin, it's worth checking these areas specifically.
Buying a specific Austin? Check the individual vehicle's MOT history for free on GOV.UK to see its actual test results, advisories, and mileage readings.
Check MOT history on GOV.UK