Volkswagen common problems and MOT failures
From 5,307,201 MOT tests in 2024, 21.5% of Volkswagen vehicles failed. Below are the most common reasons, ranked by how often they occur.
Top Volkswagen MOT failure reasons
| # | Problem | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | suspension pin, bush or joint worn | 161,640 |
| 2 | tyre tread depth outside legal limits | 103,056 |
| 3 | suspension joint dust cover missing or no longer prevents the ingress of dirt etc | 94,900 |
| 4 | tyre seriously damaged | 86,607 |
| 5 | the aim of a headlamp is not within limits the requirements | 82,798 |
| 6 | spring or spring component fractured or seriously weakened | 82,105 |
| 7 | transmission shaft constant velocity joint boot missing or no longer prevents the ingress of dirt etc | 65,489 |
| 8 | tyre cords visible or damaged | 63,398 |
| 9 | brake lining or pad worn below 1.5mm | 57,297 |
| 10 | rear registration plate lamp or light source missing or inoperative in the case of multiple lamps or light sources | 55,690 |
What this means if you're buying a Volkswagen
The single most common MOT failure for Volkswagen is suspension pin, bush or joint worn, accounting for 19% 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 Volkswagen vehicles. If you're viewing a used Volkswagen, it's worth checking these areas specifically.
Volkswagen models by MOT pass rate
Lowest pass rates first. These models have the most testable issues.
| Model | Tests | Pass rate |
|---|---|---|
| Lt | 13,264 | 64% |
| Fox | 46,972 | 64.4% |
| Transporter T30 Tdi | 473 | 65.5% |
| Shuttle | 252 | 65.5% |
| Bora | 9,983 | 68.5% |
| Motorhome | 308 | 68.8% |
| Beetle | 79,358 | 69.3% |
| Lupo | 10,180 | 69.3% |
| Campervan | 355 | 69.6% |
| Multivan | 741 | 70% |
| Camper | 3,216 | 70.5% |
| Caravelle | 32,690 | 72.1% |
| Delivery Van | 220 | 72.3% |
| Jetta | 22,175 | 72.6% |
| Camper Van | 631 | 72.9% |
Buying a specific Volkswagen? 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