Mitsubishi common problems and MOT failures
From 496,393 MOT tests in 2024, 22.5% of Mitsubishi vehicles failed. Below are the most common reasons, ranked by how often they occur.
Top Mitsubishi MOT failure reasons
| # | Problem | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | suspension pin, bush or joint worn | 18,937 |
| 2 | brake pipe damaged or excessively corroded | 12,506 |
| 3 | lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning | 9,485 |
| 4 | brake lining or pad worn below 1.5mm | 8,365 |
| 5 | wiper blade missing or obviously not clearing the windscreen | 7,787 |
| 6 | tyre tread depth outside legal limits | 7,529 |
| 7 | 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 | 7,527 |
| 8 | the aim of a headlamp is not within limits the requirements | 7,523 |
| 9 | rear registration plate lamp or light source missing or inoperative in the case of multiple lamps or light sources | 6,156 |
| 10 | steering ball joint with excessive wear or free play | 6,003 |
What this means if you're buying a Mitsubishi
The single most common MOT failure for Mitsubishi is suspension pin, bush or joint worn, accounting for 21% 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 Mitsubishi vehicles. If you're viewing a used Mitsubishi, it's worth checking these areas specifically.
Mitsubishi models by MOT pass rate
Lowest pass rates first. These models have the most testable issues.
| Model | Tests | Pass rate |
|---|---|---|
| Space Star | 2,259 | 57.8% |
| Grandis | 2,039 | 60.8% |
| Challenger | 324 | 61.1% |
| Fto | 774 | 62.1% |
| Carisma | 1,402 | 62.8% |
| Shogun Pinin | 2,277 | 64.2% |
| Colt | 32,064 | 64.6% |
| L200 Double Cab | 17,393 | 66.7% |
| Galant | 595 | 67.9% |
| Shogun Sport | 7,890 | 68% |
| Delica | 2,617 | 69.6% |
| Canter | 1,123 | 70.2% |
| Space Wagon | 393 | 71.2% |
| Pajero | 3,416 | 71.8% |
| 3000 | 781 | 72.3% |
Buying a specific Mitsubishi? 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