Honda common problems and MOT failures
From 1,600,479 MOT tests in 2024, 20.8% of Honda vehicles failed. Below are the most common reasons, ranked by how often they occur.
Top Honda MOT failure reasons
| # | Problem | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | suspension pin, bush or joint worn | 42,145 |
| 2 | the aim of a headlamp is not within limits the requirements | 34,369 |
| 3 | tyre tread depth outside legal limits | 27,129 |
| 4 | lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning | 26,744 |
| 5 | brake lining or pad worn below 1.5mm | 23,209 |
| 6 | 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 | 22,616 |
| 7 | suspension joint dust cover missing or no longer prevents the ingress of dirt etc | 21,795 |
| 8 | tyre seriously damaged | 19,180 |
| 9 | wiper blade missing or obviously not clearing the windscreen | 18,425 |
| 10 | rear registration plate lamp or light source missing or inoperative in the case of multiple lamps or light sources | 17,493 |
What this means if you're buying a Honda
The single most common MOT failure for Honda is suspension pin, bush or joint worn, accounting for 17% of all failure items. Suspension repairs typically cost £150–£400 depending on the component.
These figures are from real MOT inspections. They show what testers actually find wrong with Honda vehicles. If you're viewing a used Honda, it's worth checking these areas specifically.
Honda models by MOT pass rate
Lowest pass rates first. These models have the most testable issues.
| Model | Tests | Pass rate |
|---|---|---|
| Civic Aerodeck | 341 | 62.5% |
| Fr-V | 12,137 | 64.6% |
| Stream | 1,334 | 65.1% |
| Shuttle | 458 | 67% |
| Cbf125 | 420 | 69.3% |
| Accord | 44,997 | 69.6% |
| Cbf 125 M-9 | 370 | 69.7% |
| Xr125L | 518 | 70.3% |
| Cbf 125 M-A | 506 | 71.5% |
| Logo | 557 | 72% |
| Ww 125 Ex2-C | 300 | 72.7% |
| Cbr 125 R-C | 371 | 73% |
| Concerto | 259 | 73% |
| Prelude | 2,420 | 73.5% |
| Cbr125R | 793 | 74% |
Buying a specific Honda? 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