MOT prognosis registry — what happened after each certificate line

Last updated · OBDCode UK editorial

Of the 391,384 Class 4 vehicles (all fuels) that failed a 2024 MOT on “Malfunction indicator lamp Engine MIL illuminated indicating a malfunction”, 14.8% (95% CI 14.7–14.9) failed on that same wording again in 2025 — 14.8 times the 1.00% (95% CI 1.0–1.0) rate among cars that did not fail on that line. They were 11.5 percentage points more likely not to be tested again (20.0% (95% CI 19.9–20.1) versus 8.5% (95% CI 8.5–8.5)). Engine management light — the 391,384-car all-fuels follow-up · Engine MIL — did the failure stay fixed? Of the 24,206,302 Class 4 vehicles that passed a 2024 MOT (first normal test), 92.7% (95% CI 92.7–92.7) were tested again in 2025. 18.2% (95% CI 18.2–18.2) of that 2024 pass group had at least one 2025 failure recorded; cars not tested in 2025 count as not having failed.
391,384All-fuels cars that failed on the engine MIL in 2024
14.8% (95% CI 14.7–14.9)Same wording failed again in 2025
1.00% (95% CI 1.0–1.0)Same-item fail in the control
+11.5 ppNot-tested gap versus control

By fuel at the 2024 test

Petrol and diesel are different faults. Each row is that fuel only. It is not the all-fuels same-item rate already on this page. The not-tested gap is percentage points versus other cars of the same fuel that did not fail on this wording.

FuelCarsSame-item failNot-tested gap
Petrol 192,397 15.4% (95% CI 15.3–15.6) +15.6 pp
Diesel 194,460 14.2% (95% CI 14.1–14.4) +6.9 pp
Hybrid Electric (Clean) 1,972 9.0% (95% CI 7.8–10.4) +4.1 pp

These figures are a statistical association from the national MOT extracts. They are not a prediction about an individual car, and we have not inspected any of the vehicles.

Two questions the registry answers

If this was an advisory, what happened next? Cars that passed in 2024 with a given advisory, compared with cars that passed without it: same-item fail rate in 2025, any-fail rate, and whether the car was tested again.
If this was a failure, did it stay fixed? Cars that failed on a given line in 2024: the share that failed on the same wording again in 2025, the same-item rate among cars that did not fail on that line (the control), and the not-tested gap versus that control. The extracts do not record the repair.

Ranked tables

Numbered rankings are published with a fixed inclusion rule and a named statistic. Each page states the method above the source line.

MOT advisories most likely to become a failure next yearSame-item fail rate in 2025, cohort of 20,000+ MOT advisories that most often mean the car is never tested againLargest 2025 not-tested gap versus cars without the advisory MOT repairs that most often do not holdSame-item fail again in 2025 versus cars that did not fail on that line, cohort of 20,000+ MOT failures that most often mean the car is never tested againLargest 2025 not-tested gap versus cars that did not fail on that line

How the figures are calculated

The method is the same on every page in this registry. The ranking pages apply one extra inclusion cut, which they state. Wilson intervals, age-standardisation, and the suppression floors are written out on the methodology page, with the Python functions this site uses.

The compiled tables for edition 2026.1 are on the dataset page.

  1. Source: the DVSA anonymised MOT tests and results extracts for 2024 and 2025, Class 4 only, published under the Open Government Licence v3.0.
  2. The extracts carry a vehicle_id that stays the same across annual releases. That is what makes a follow-up possible. A single year’s file cannot reproduce these numbers.
  3. Index test: each vehicle’s earliest 2024 normal test (test type NT). Where a car was tested more than once that year, the earliest test is kept so the follow-up window is as long as possible.
  4. Advisory axis: the index test was a pass (result P or PRS) and carried advisory wording X. Outcome in 2025: failed on that same wording; failed for any reason; or not tested at all. The control group is 2024 passes that did not carry X.
  5. Failure axis: the index test recorded a failure for wording X. A car is counted once even if two reason-for-rejection codes print the same words. Outcome: the same vehicle failed on the same wording in 2025; failed for any reason; or was not tested at all. The control is every other Class 4 vehicle whose index test did not fail on X (other failures stay in the control). Gone is the not-tested gap: the percentage-point difference in the share never seen in 2025 versus that control. Cars not tested in 2025 stay in the denominator and count as not repeating.
  6. Wording, not code: several reason-for-rejection identifiers print the same words on the certificate. Those identifiers are pooled. The owner only ever sees the words.
  7. Publication floor: a rate is shown only where the cohort has at least 500 cars. Model splits need 200 cars. Age and mileage bands need 300 cars.
  8. Robustness: advisory and failure pages that have the figures also re-run the same-item fail rate and the not-retested gap on January–June 2024 tests only — failure-axis H1. A December 2024 test may not be due until 2026, which can look like the car vanished; the first-half window removes most of that censoring.

“Not tested again” is not a DVSA scrappage flag. It means that vehicle_id does not appear in the 2025 extract. A gap versus the control group is the public signal; it can also reflect export, a missed test, or a test that falls in 2026.

Every published advisory follow-up

190 certificate lines, each with a 2024 pass cohort of at least 500 cars. The same-item fail rate is the share that failed on that same line in 2025. The not-tested gap is percentage points versus cars that passed without the advisory.

Tyres

#Certificate wordingSame-item failNot-tested gapCars
1 Condition has a cut but not deep enough to reach the ply or cords 4.4% (95% CI 4.3–4.4) -1.8 pp 301,660
2 Tread depth worn close to legal limit/worn on edge 3.2% (95% CI 3.2–3.2) +2.0 pp 3,822,709
3 Valve stem slightly damaged 2.4% (95% CI 2.1–2.8) +1.8 pp 8,463
4 Condition slightly damaged/cracking or perishing 1.7% (95% CI 1.7–1.7) -1.0 pp 1,939,529
5 Condition slightly damaged 1.0% (95% CI 1.0–1.1) -0.6 pp 155,933
6 Condition wheel/tyre protruding beyond wheel arch 0.16% (95% CI 0.0–0.9) +10.5 pp 624
7 Condition fitted to a bus or coach is close to ten years old 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.6) +0.5 pp 605

Brakes

#Certificate wordingSame-item failNot-tested gapCars
1 Brake pads wearing thin 5.5% (95% CI 5.4–5.5) +0.6 pp 1,724,201
2 Rigid brake pipes corroded, covered in grease or other material 5.3% (95% CI 5.2–5.3) +8.3 pp 690,642
3 Service brake performance binding but not excessively 4.7% (95% CI 4.6–4.8) +4.3 pp 316,800
4 Service brake performance fluctuating, but not excessively 2.8% (95% CI 2.7–2.9) +2.6 pp 115,705
5 Load sensing valves stiff 2.7% (95% CI 2.0–3.6) +15.6 pp 1,574
6 Flexible brake hoses slightly deteriorated 2.5% (95% CI 2.4–2.7) +12.0 pp 57,008
7 Cable damaged but not to excess 1.9% (95% CI 1.7–2.2) +4.3 pp 11,520
8 Service brake imbalance requirements only just met. It would appear that the braking system requires adjustment or repair. 1.9% (95% CI 1.8–2.0) +4.7 pp 50,588
9 Anti-lock braking system component slightly damaged 1.6% (95% CI 0.9–2.9) +13.8 pp 636
10 Flexible brake hoses has slight corrosion to ferrule 1.5% (95% CI 1.5–1.6) +6.3 pp 138,431
11 Brake discs worn, but not excessively 1.5% (95% CI 1.5–1.5) +0.8 pp 502,155
12 Electronic parking brake defective but can be satisfactorily operated 1.3% (95% CI 0.9–1.9) +6.8 pp 2,157
13 Brake discs worn, pitted or scored, but not seriously weakened 0.77% (95% CI 0.8–0.8) +2.4 pp 1,777,480
14 Service brake efficiency (Trikes, quads and pre-68 vehicles) imbalance requirements only just met. It would appear that the braking system requires adjustment or repair. 0.70% (95% CI 0.5–1.0) +7.1 pp 4,552
15 Service brake performance grabbing slightly 0.66% (95% CI 0.4–1.1) +7.8 pp 2,579
16 Hand lever pivots slightly worn 0.61% (95% CI 0.3–1.3) +15.3 pp 1,149
17 Rigid brake pipes slightly damaged 0.52% (95% CI 0.3–0.8) +8.7 pp 3,863
18 Lever defective but can be satisfactorily operated 0.50% (95% CI 0.4–0.7) +9.9 pp 9,185
19 Pedal wearing smooth 0.41% (95% CI 0.3–0.5) +5.9 pp 27,507
20 Brake slack adjuster advise adjustment 0.38% (95% CI 0.1–1.0) +3.7 pp 1,066
21 Brake linings wearing thin 0.33% (95% CI 0.2–0.5) +1.4 pp 8,503
22 Parking (secondary brake performance) grabbing slightly 0.31% (95% CI 0.2–0.6) +14.4 pp 2,247
23 Parking brake efficiency (Trikes, quads and pre-68 vehicles) efficiency only just met. It would appear that the braking system requires adjustment or repair. 0.29% (95% CI 0.2–0.3) +14.9 pp 50,658
24 Brake fluid close to minimum mark 0.25% (95% CI 0.2–0.4) +1.0 pp 10,469
25 Hydraulic brake callipers slightly damaged but function not impaired 0.16% (95% CI 0.0–0.9) +18.6 pp 634
26 Service brake performance requirements only just met. It would appear that the braking system requires adjustment or repair. 0.13% (95% CI 0.1–0.2) +10.4 pp 16,276
27 Brake drums worn, pitted or scored, but not seriously weakened <0.1% (95% CI 0.0–0.2) +6.1 pp 2,265
28 Service brake efficiency (Trikes, quads and pre-68 vehicles) efficiency only just met. It would appear that the braking system requires adjustment or repair. <0.1% (95% CI 0.0–0.2) +17.6 pp 2,810
29 Reservoirs close to minimum mark 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.1) +1.0 pp 5,675
30 Lever worn, but not excessively 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.1) +16.6 pp 3,393
31 Rigid brake pipes clips or supports missing, pipe adequately supported 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.2) +11.5 pp 2,056
32 Hydraulic brake callipers corroded but not seriously weakened 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.4) +11.2 pp 979
33 Brake drums worn, but not excessively 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.4) +7.5 pp 854
34 Anti-lock braking system wiring damaged but not excessively 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.6) +11.2 pp 661
35 Master cylinder close to minimum mark 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.7) +0.1 pp 556
36 Other components damaged, but the braking system is not adversely affected 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.8) +4.6 pp 507

Suspension

#Certificate wordingSame-item failNot-tested gapCars
1 Ball joint has slight play 9.5% (95% CI 9.4–9.6) +9.2 pp 411,708
2 Component mounting prescribed areas prescribed area is corroded but not considered excessive 7.5% (95% CI 7.4–7.7) +14.7 pp 107,819
3 Shock absorbers has light misting of oil 6.3% (95% CI 6.2–6.3) +3.7 pp 631,357
4 Linkage ball joints ball joint has slight play 5.8% (95% CI 5.8–5.9) +8.9 pp 247,306
5 Shock absorbers has a slightly worn bush 5.6% (95% CI 5.5–5.8) +5.5 pp 65,124
6 Pins and bushes pin or bush worn but not resulting in excessive movement 5.0% (95% CI 5.0–5.1) +5.1 pp 1,188,355
7 Wheel bearings slightly noisy 5.0% (95% CI 4.8–5.1) +9.6 pp 67,766
8 Swivel pins and bushes swivel pin and/or bush slightly worn 3.7% (95% CI 3.6–3.8) +6.8 pp 86,437
9 Wheel bearings has slight play 3.2% (95% CI 3.1–3.3) +11.8 pp 95,742
10 Linkage pins and bushes pin or bush worn but not resulting in excessive movement 2.7% (95% CI 2.6–2.8) +6.4 pp 80,908
11 Shock absorbers has a reduced damping effect 2.2% (95% CI 2.1–2.3) +11.4 pp 45,193
12 Shackle pins and bushes has slight wear in a shackle pin and/or bush 2.1% (95% CI 1.6–2.6) +10.3 pp 3,323
13 Suspension arm corroded but not seriously weakened 2.0% (95% CI 2.0–2.1) +7.0 pp 209,642
14 Spring mounting prescribed areas prescribed area is corroded but not considered excessive 1.9% (95% CI 1.6–2.2) +9.2 pp 9,731
15 Mounting corroded but not seriously weakened 1.7% (95% CI 1.4–1.9) +2.1 pp 10,348
16 Attachment bracket and mounting attachment bracket/mounting damaged but its strength is not seriously reduced 1.6% (95% CI 0.9–2.9) +7.5 pp 682
17 Sub-frame corroded but not seriously weakened 1.5% (95% CI 1.4–1.5) +9.3 pp 364,836
18 Pins and bushes pin or bush slightly worn 1.5% (95% CI 1.3–1.6) +5.8 pp 23,076
19 Shackle bracket corroded but not seriously weakened 1.3% (95% CI 0.7–2.6) +17.9 pp 601
20 Sub-frame mounting prescribed areas prescribed area is corroded but not considered excessive 1.3% (95% CI 1.2–1.4) +15.2 pp 46,414
21 Macpherson strut corroded but not seriously weakened 1.2% (95% CI 1.0–1.3) +4.3 pp 31,467
22 Mounting damaged but not seriously weakened 1.2% (95% CI 0.8–1.6) +0.5 pp 2,782
23 Attachment bracket and mounting mounting corroded but not seriously weakened 1.0% (95% CI 0.7–1.4) +8.9 pp 2,963
24 Attachment bracket and mounting mounting damaged but not seriously weakened 0.99% (95% CI 0.8–1.3) +7.6 pp 6,942
25 Attachment bracket and mounting attachment bracket/mounting corroded but its strength is not seriously reduced 0.87% (95% CI 0.6–1.3) +13.2 pp 3,320
26 Suspension arm damaged but not seriously weakened 0.76% (95% CI 0.5–1.1) +10.5 pp 3,302
27 Anchor pins and bushes has slight wear in an anchor pin and/or bush 0.71% (95% CI 0.4–1.3) +15.6 pp 1,405
28 Macpherson strut damaged but not seriously weakened 0.70% (95% CI 0.5–1.1) +11.8 pp 2,981
29 Linkage damaged but not seriously weakened 0.64% (95% CI 0.4–0.9) +11.5 pp 4,345
30 Has slight vertical movement between stub axle and axle beam 0.61% (95% CI 0.3–1.3) +15.5 pp 990
31 Sub-frame damaged but not seriously weakened 0.59% (95% CI 0.3–1.2) +8.4 pp 1,350
32 Anti-roll bar damaged but not seriously weakened 0.53% (95% CI 0.3–1.0) +16.7 pp 1,896
33 Component mounting prescribed areas repair covered in underseal 0.49% (95% CI 0.3–0.7) +26.2 pp 4,528
34 Axle deformed but serviceable 0.41% (95% CI 0.2–1.1) +10.0 pp 972
35 Coil spring modified but not seriously weakened 0.39% (95% CI 0.1–1.1) +17.8 pp 777
36 Component mounting prescribed areas prescribed area damaged but not considered excessive 0.29% (95% CI 0.2–0.5) +16.6 pp 4,417
37 Other suspension component corroded but not seriously weakened 0.22% (95% CI 0.2–0.3) +13.6 pp 55,330
38 Shock absorbers has slight external damage to the casing 0.18% (95% CI 0.1–0.2) +6.8 pp 48,395
39 Linkage corroded but not seriously weakened 0.15% (95% CI 0.1–0.4) +12.0 pp 3,298
40 Coil spring corroded 0.13% (95% CI 0.1–0.1) +7.2 pp 587,235
41 Coil spring worn 0.13% (95% CI 0.1–0.2) +16.3 pp 7,019
42 Sub-frame mounting prescribed areas prescribed area damaged but not considered excessive 0.09% (95% CI 0.0–0.5) +15.5 pp 1,077
43 Sub-frame mounting prescribed areas repair covered in underseal 0.09% (95% CI 0.0–0.5) +26.2 pp 1,109
44 Suspension rod corroded but not seriously weakened 0.09% (95% CI 0.0–0.5) +9.1 pp 1,135
45 Anti-roll bar corroded but not seriously weakened <0.1% (95% CI 0.0–0.0) +8.0 pp 29,333
46 Other suspension component damaged but not seriously weakened 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.5) +4.7 pp 796
47 Macpherson strut modified but not seriously weakened 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.7) +13.9 pp 544
48 Attachment bracket and mounting mounting modified but not seriously weakened 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.7) +11.4 pp 540

Non-component advisories

#Certificate wordingSame-item failNot-tested gapCars
1 Non-component advisories Child Seat fitted not allowing full inspection of adult belt 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.0) -1.8 pp 433,540
2 Non-component advisories Nail in tyre 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.0) -1.8 pp 360,247
3 Non-component advisories Play in steering rack inner joint(s) 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.0) +8.1 pp 241,394
4 Non-component advisories Items removed from driver's view prior to test 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.0) -2.1 pp 137,470
5 Non-component advisories Vehicles internal headlight adjuster altered to recheck lights 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.0) -2.0 pp 38,870
6 Non-component advisories Coolant leak 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.0) +7.7 pp 35,882
7 Non-component advisories Fuel Pipe/s corroded 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.0) +11.6 pp 33,464
8 Non-component advisories Passenger seat(s) missing at time of test 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.0) +6.2 pp 12,933
9 Non-component advisories Gearbox mounting defective 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.0) +13.4 pp 11,754
10 Non-component advisories Non obligatory mirror damaged 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.0) +12.2 pp 11,520
11 Non-component advisories Spare tyre defective 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.0) +4.3 pp 8,336
12 Non-component advisories Towball/hitch not fitted at time of test 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.1) -1.3 pp 4,764
13 Non-component advisories Wheel/tyre protruding beyond wheel arch 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.2) +13.4 pp 1,603
14 Non-component advisories Standard fitment seat belt missing 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.5) +12.8 pp 703
15 Non-component advisories Mudguard insecure 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.8) +12.5 pp 506

Noise, emissions and leaks

#Certificate wordingSame-item failNot-tested gapCars
1 Catalyst emissions emits blue smoke during acceleration 1.8% (95% CI 1.4–2.2) +22.0 pp 3,579
2 Pre 01/07/2008 Turbo emits excessive smoke or vapour but not likely to obscure the vision of other road users 0.74% (95% CI 0.5–1.1) +23.6 pp 3,525
3 Engine oil leaks leak, but not excessive 0.68% (95% CI 0.7–0.7) +13.4 pp 831,419
4 Sound deadening material not fully secure 0.62% (95% CI 0.4–1.0) -0.3 pp 2,256
5 Non catalyst emissions emits blue smoke during acceleration 0.59% (95% CI 0.3–1.0) +27.6 pp 2,202
6 On or after 01/07/2008 emits excessive smoke or vapour but not likely to obscure the vision of other road users 0.55% (95% CI 0.3–0.9) +17.5 pp 2,715
7 Catalyst emissions emits black smoke during acceleration 0.45% (95% CI 0.2–0.9) +27.1 pp 1,999
8 Undertray not fully secure 0.32% (95% CI 0.2–0.5) +3.1 pp 8,392
9 Hydraulic fluid leaks leak, but not excessive 0.27% (95% CI 0.2–0.5) +12.4 pp 4,031
10 On or after 01/01/2014 emits excessive smoke or vapour but not likely to obscure the vision of other road users 0.24% (95% CI 0.1–0.9) +9.8 pp 834
11 Other leaks leak, but not excessive 0.14% (95% CI 0.1–0.2) +7.2 pp 13,294
12 Transmission oil leaks leak, but not excessive 0.12% (95% CI 0.1–0.1) +7.5 pp 110,031
13 Pre 01/01/1980 visual emits excessive smoke or vapour but not likely to obscure the vision of other road users 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.5) +24.3 pp 755

Body, chassis, structure

#Certificate wordingSame-item failNot-tested gapCars
1 Exhaust system has a minor leak of exhaust gases 5.6% (95% CI 5.6–5.7) +10.8 pp 373,802
2 Prop shaft bearing has slight play 3.6% (95% CI 3.2–4.1) +11.4 pp 6,369
3 Integral vehicle structure condition is corroded but structural rigidity is not significantly reduced 3.5% (95% CI 3.4–3.7) +19.6 pp 74,771
4 Tank slightly loose 3.3% (95% CI 2.4–4.5) +15.0 pp 1,178
5 Vehicle structure slightly corroded within 30cm of towbar mounting 3.1% (95% CI 2.5–4.0) +14.5 pp 2,048
6 Chassis condition or chassis corroded within 30cm of a mounting, but not seriously affecting overall security 3.0% (95% CI 2.8–3.2) +20.5 pp 31,566
7 Exhaust system mounting defective 2.6% (95% CI 2.5–2.6) +5.9 pp 146,325
8 Chassis condition is corroded but structural rigidity is not significantly reduced 1.7% (95% CI 1.6–1.8) +17.6 pp 69,801
9 Joints worn, but not excessively 1.7% (95% CI 1.5–2.0) +10.9 pp 8,872
10 Other towbar components component corroded, but not excessively 1.7% (95% CI 1.3–2.2) +9.4 pp 2,833
11 Engine mounting condition damaged but not to excess 1.3% (95% CI 1.1–1.6) +11.0 pp 10,311
12 Prescribed areas or chassis corroded within 30cm of a mounting, but not seriously affecting overall security 1.2% (95% CI 1.0–1.6) +24.1 pp 5,521
13 Flexible couplings slightly deteriorated 1.1% (95% CI 0.9–1.3) +3.7 pp 12,165
14 Bumpers mountings corroded but not likely to become detached 0.98% (95% CI 0.8–1.3) +18.8 pp 6,122
15 Exhaust system noisy 0.80% (95% CI 0.7–1.0) +17.8 pp 11,803
16 Other body component component slightly loose 0.72% (95% CI 0.4–1.2) +7.0 pp 1,953
17 Sub-frame condition is corroded but structural rigidity is not significantly reduced 0.62% (95% CI 0.5–0.7) +11.4 pp 22,273
18 Mounting fixings mounting fixing insecure, but overall security not significantly reduced 0.50% (95% CI 0.2–1.5) +21.1 pp 600
19 Exhaust system silencer slightly loose 0.47% (95% CI 0.4–0.6) +6.9 pp 11,333
20 Belts worn, but not excessively 0.47% (95% CI 0.3–0.8) +3.2 pp 2,571
21 Integral vehicle structure condition is fractured but structural rigidity is not significantly reduced 0.47% (95% CI 0.2–1.4) +21.4 pp 645
22 Panel slightly loose 0.40% (95% CI 0.2–0.8) +19.8 pp 1,979
23 Drive shaft damaged but serviceable 0.39% (95% CI 0.1–1.4) +14.0 pp 517
24 Chassis condition is repaired but structural rigidity is not significantly reduced 0.39% (95% CI 0.2–0.8) +29.7 pp 1,811
25 Chassis condition is fractured but structural rigidity is not significantly reduced 0.35% (95% CI 0.1–1.3) +24.1 pp 573
26 Integral vehicle structure condition is repaired but structural rigidity is not significantly reduced 0.33% (95% CI 0.2–0.7) +28.0 pp 2,102
27 Body condition not fully secure 0.15% (95% CI 0.0–0.5) +20.0 pp 1,377
28 Chassis condition is deformed but structural rigidity is not significantly reduced 0.13% (95% CI 0.1–0.3) +14.6 pp 2,993
29 Hose deteriorated 0.11% (95% CI 0.0–0.4) +9.7 pp 1,854
30 Integral vehicle structure condition is deformed but structural rigidity is not significantly reduced <0.1% (95% CI 0.0–0.1) +10.5 pp 7,501
31 Hinge deteriorated but the door can still be readily opened and closed 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.1) +10.7 pp 2,759
32 Catch deteriorated but the door can still be readily opened and closed 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.2) +11.4 pp 2,292

Identification of the vehicle

#Certificate wordingSame-item failNot-tested gapCars
1 Registration plates deteriorated but not likely to be misread 1.7% (95% CI 1.6–1.7) +5.9 pp 466,754
2 Registration plates insecure but not likely to fall off 0.82% (95% CI 0.7–1.0) +4.2 pp 11,664

Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment

#Certificate wordingSame-item failNot-tested gapCars
1 Individual direction indicators slightly discoloured 4.7% (95% CI 4.6–4.8) +6.2 pp 142,389
2 Side repeaters slightly discoloured 3.5% (95% CI 3.3–3.8) +6.8 pp 18,452
3 Position lamp slightly affected by the operation of another lamp 3.2% (95% CI 2.8–3.7) +13.5 pp 6,321
4 Headlamp has a product on the lens but not seriously reducing light output 2.4% (95% CI 2.3–2.5) +13.5 pp 151,411
5 Stop lamp slightly affected by the operation of another lamp 1.9% (95% CI 1.3–2.7) +18.2 pp 1,336
6 Individual direction indicators slightly affected by the operation of another lamp 1.7% (95% CI 1.2–2.5) +13.3 pp 1,552
7 All direction indicators slightly discoloured 1.3% (95% CI 1.1–1.6) +7.6 pp 11,242
8 Headlamp has a product on the light source but not seriously reducing light output 0.45% (95% CI 0.4–0.6) +11.6 pp 16,788
9 Non-obligatory stop lamp not working 0.13% (95% CI 0.1–0.2) +4.8 pp 54,730
10 Position lamp has a product on the lens or light source but not adversely affecting light intensity <0.1% (95% CI 0.0–0.2) +8.1 pp 3,767
11 All position lamps have a product on the lenses but not adversely affecting light output 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.8) +17.8 pp 507

Steering

#Certificate wordingSame-item failNot-tested gapCars
1 Track rod end ball joint has slight play 12.7% (95% CI 12.6–12.8) +9.9 pp 234,897
2 Drag link end ball joint has slight play 2.2% (95% CI 1.9–2.5) +11.3 pp 8,318
3 Other components has slight seepage from a component 1.5% (95% CI 1.3–1.7) +11.6 pp 18,422
4 Steering rack has slight free play detected at steering wheel 1.2% (95% CI 1.0–1.3) +10.9 pp 27,995
5 Pipes and hoses has slight seepage 1.1% (95% CI 1.0–1.3) +11.2 pp 13,449
6 Universal joint has slight wear or play 0.89% (95% CI 0.7–1.1) +4.8 pp 6,616
7 Steering arm deformed but serviceable 0.88% (95% CI 0.4–2.0) +12.2 pp 570
8 Rams has slight seepage from a joint 0.87% (95% CI 0.5–1.4) +13.2 pp 1,958
9 Operation slightly rough 0.79% (95% CI 0.5–1.2) +7.3 pp 3,042
10 Steering box slight play between sector shaft and the drop arm 0.59% (95% CI 0.2–1.7) +14.0 pp 507
11 Steering box has slight free play detected at steering wheel 0.57% (95% CI 0.4–0.9) +16.2 pp 3,885
12 Pipes and hoses slightly corroded 0.42% (95% CI 0.3–0.5) +5.9 pp 13,098
13 Pump has slight seepage 0.42% (95% CI 0.3–0.7) +14.1 pp 3,601
14 Steering column top bearing slightly worn 0.31% (95% CI 0.2–0.5) +6.0 pp 4,812
15 Track rod end slightly misaligned 0.25% (95% CI 0.1–0.7) +15.7 pp 1,188
16 Pipes and hoses slightly damaged 0.19% (95% CI 0.0–1.1) +13.3 pp 529
17 Steering box has seepage 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.2) +13.8 pp 2,511
18 Operation close to minimum mark 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.2) +5.7 pp 1,705

Road Wheels

#Certificate wordingSame-item failNot-tested gapCars
1 Condition slightly distorted 0.52% (95% CI 0.5–0.6) +1.1 pp 163,219

Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems

#Certificate wordingSame-item failNot-tested gapCars
1 Prescribed areas prescribed area is corroded but not considered excessive 7.1% (95% CI 6.8–7.6) +19.1 pp 15,490
2 SRS malfunction indicator lamp warning lamp does not illuminate 4.2% (95% CI 3.7–4.7) +18.8 pp 5,951
3 Condition buckle slightly damaged 1.00% (95% CI 0.9–1.2) +7.7 pp 15,979
4 Condition flexible stalk damaged 0.36% (95% CI 0.2–0.7) +7.7 pp 1,965
5 Condition webbing slightly damaged or frayed 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.0) +3.1 pp 57,973

Visibility

#Certificate wordingSame-item failNot-tested gapCars
1 Bonnet primary retaining device slightly deteriorated 0.08% (95% CI 0.0–0.3) +12.8 pp 2,647
2 Items removed from driver's view prior to test 0.05% (95% CI 0.0–0.1) -1.3 pp 17,320

Every published repair-hold page

479 certificate lines, each with a 2024 fail cohort of at least 500 cars. The repeat rate is the share that failed on the same line again in 2025. The not-tested gap is percentage points versus cars that did not fail on that line.

Suspension

#Certificate wordingFailed againNot-tested gapCars
1 Component mounting prescribed areas prescribed area is corroded but not considered excessive 9.2% (95% CI 9.0–9.3) +25.7 pp 159,224
2 Ball joint has slight play 7.1% (95% CI 7.0–7.1) +8.5 pp 564,288
3 Coil spring A spring or spring component fractured or seriously weakened 6.2% (95% CI 6.2–6.3) +5.2 pp 654,624
4 Ball joint dust cover A suspension joint dust cover missing or no longer prevents the ingress of dirt etc 4.9% (95% CI 4.8–5.0) +7.9 pp 251,775
5 Pins and bushes pin or bush worn but not resulting in excessive movement 3.8% (95% CI 3.7–3.9) +8.7 pp 449,260
6 Linkage ball joint dust cover A suspension joint dust cover missing or no longer prevents the ingress of dirt etc 3.6% (95% CI 3.5–3.7) +7.8 pp 223,930
7 Linkage ball joints ball joint has slight play 3.5% (95% CI 3.4–3.6) +11.8 pp 218,778
8 Shock absorbers has light misting of oil 3.2% (95% CI 3.1–3.3) +7.9 pp 266,788
9 Suspension arm corroded but not seriously weakened 2.8% (95% CI 2.6–3.0) +17.2 pp 31,833
10 Leaf spring A spring or spring component fractured or seriously weakened 2.8% (95% CI 2.4–3.2) +11.9 pp 7,612
11 Spring mounting prescribed areas prescribed area is corroded but not considered excessive 2.7% (95% CI 2.4–3.1) +23.8 pp 8,141
12 Sub-frame mounting prescribed areas prescribed area is corroded but not considered excessive 2.6% (95% CI 2.4–2.9) +28.5 pp 16,662
13 Sub-frame corroded but not seriously weakened 2.6% (95% CI 2.4–2.8) +22.2 pp 35,497
14 Macpherson strut A suspension pin, bush, joint or bearing excessively worn 2.6% (95% CI 2.4–2.7) +10.3 pp 26,821
15 Shock absorbers has a slightly worn bush 2.4% (95% CI 2.2–2.5) +6.3 pp 43,168
16 Wheel bearings has slight play 2.4% (95% CI 2.2–2.5) +15.4 pp 49,396
17 Linkage A suspension component fractured or likely to fail 2.0% (95% CI 1.8–2.3) +10.7 pp 16,018
18 Wheel bearings slightly noisy 2.0% (95% CI 1.9–2.1) +12.2 pp 91,899
19 Linkage pins and bushes pin or bush worn but not resulting in excessive movement 1.9% (95% CI 1.7–2.0) +13.4 pp 31,187
20 Leaf spring A spring main leaf fractured 1.7% (95% CI 1.3–2.2) +12.4 pp 2,985
21 Operation A gas, air or fluid suspension system inoperative 1.6% (95% CI 1.1–2.4) +19.7 pp 1,358
22 Component mounting prescribed areas repair covered in underseal 1.6% (95% CI 1.2–2.1) +31.8 pp 2,802
23 Shackle pins and bushes has slight wear in a shackle pin and/or bush 1.5% (95% CI 1.0–2.3) +17.0 pp 1,398
24 Component mounting prescribed areas The strength or continuity of the load bearing structure within 30cm of any sub-frame, spring or suspension component mounting (a 'prescribed area') is so weakened that control of the vehicle is likely to be adversely affected 1.3% (95% CI 1.1–1.5) +32.8 pp 8,554
25 Ball joint A suspension pin, bush or joint likely to become detached 1.2% (95% CI 1.0–1.3) +13.8 pp 33,061
26 Linkage pins and bushes A suspension pin, bush or joint likely to become detached 1.1% (95% CI 0.8–1.4) +11.1 pp 4,763
27 Linkage A suspension component missing, likely to become detached or directional stability impaired 0.98% (95% CI 0.8–1.2) +14.4 pp 9,905
28 Attachment bracket and mounting mounting damaged but not seriously weakened 0.94% (95% CI 0.7–1.3) +10.8 pp 4,361
29 Linkage attachment bracket and mounting A suspension component fractured or likely to fail 0.91% (95% CI 0.6–1.4) +13.8 pp 1,971
30 Condition slightly distorted 0.90% (95% CI 0.7–1.1) +10.3 pp 11,428
31 Linkage A suspension component insecurely attached to chassis or axle 0.82% (95% CI 0.7–1.0) +12.9 pp 9,470
32 Pins and bushes pin or bush slightly worn 0.77% (95% CI 0.6–1.0) +11.0 pp 9,009
33 Coil spring A spring insecurely attached to chassis or axle 0.77% (95% CI 0.5–1.1) +12.0 pp 3,395
34 An axle fractured 0.75% (95% CI 0.4–1.3) +27.8 pp 1,865
35 Macpherson strut corroded but not seriously weakened 0.75% (95% CI 0.5–1.1) +11.8 pp 4,138
36 Other suspension component corroded but not seriously weakened 0.71% (95% CI 0.4–1.1) +22.2 pp 2,404
37 Shock absorbers A shock absorber insecurely attached to chassis or axle 0.71% (95% CI 0.5–1.0) +16.2 pp 4,813
38 Shock absorbers has a reduced damping effect 0.71% (95% CI 0.6–0.8) +14.0 pp 32,295
39 Swivel pins and bushes swivel pin and/or bush slightly worn 0.70% (95% CI 0.6–0.8) +10.7 pp 30,660
40 Anti-roll bar A suspension component fractured or likely to fail 0.67% (95% CI 0.4–1.1) +16.0 pp 2,102
41 Spring mounting prescribed areas The strength or continuity of the load bearing structure within 30cm of any sub-frame, spring or suspension component mounting (a 'prescribed area') is so weakened that control of the vehicle is likely to be adversely affected 0.65% (95% CI 0.3–1.3) +27.5 pp 1,075
42 Macpherson strut A suspension component missing, likely to become detached or directional stability impaired 0.59% (95% CI 0.3–1.3) +16.8 pp 1,018
43 Macpherson strut A suspension component fractured or likely to fail 0.58% (95% CI 0.2–1.4) +13.8 pp 857
44 Macpherson strut damaged but not seriously weakened 0.57% (95% CI 0.3–1.1) +13.8 pp 1,590
45 Mounting A spring with fixings loose to the extent that relative movement is visible 0.56% (95% CI 0.3–1.2) +13.5 pp 1,070
46 Pins and bushes A suspension pin, bush or joint likely to become detached 0.52% (95% CI 0.4–0.6) +8.2 pp 20,841
47 Attachment bracket and mounting A suspension component missing, likely to become detached or directional stability impaired 0.51% (95% CI 0.4–0.7) +16.0 pp 6,813
48 Attachment bracket and mounting attachment bracket/mounting corroded but its strength is not seriously reduced 0.51% (95% CI 0.3–0.9) +25.3 pp 2,370
49 Suspension arm damaged but not seriously weakened 0.50% (95% CI 0.3–0.8) +12.8 pp 3,018
50 Attachment bracket and mounting A suspension component fractured or likely to fail 0.49% (95% CI 0.3–0.7) +15.3 pp 5,097
51 Mounting corroded but not seriously weakened 0.49% (95% CI 0.3–0.8) +13.0 pp 3,073
52 Shock absorbers has slight external damage to the casing 0.48% (95% CI 0.3–0.8) +16.1 pp 3,324
53 Suspension arm A suspension component insecurely attached to chassis or axle 0.48% (95% CI 0.3–0.9) +15.5 pp 2,084
54 Wheel bearings A wheel bearing play so excessive it is likely to break up or directional control impaired 0.48% (95% CI 0.3–0.7) +20.6 pp 7,924
55 Shock absorbers A shock absorber missing or likely to become detached 0.47% (95% CI 0.3–0.7) +18.7 pp 3,844
56 Linkage ball joints A suspension pin, bush or joint likely to become detached 0.46% (95% CI 0.3–0.6) +15.1 pp 8,325
57 Wheel bearings A wheel bearing so rough it is likely to overheat or break up 0.45% (95% CI 0.3–0.7) +17.1 pp 6,194
58 Coil spring modified but not seriously weakened 0.45% (95% CI 0.2–1.2) +15.0 pp 887
59 Component mounting prescribed areas prescribed area damaged but not considered excessive 0.43% (95% CI 0.3–0.7) +26.5 pp 4,644
60 Attachment bracket and mounting A suspension component insecurely attached to chassis or axle 0.42% (95% CI 0.2–0.7) +15.7 pp 3,129
61 Anti-roll bar corroded but not seriously weakened 0.39% (95% CI 0.1–1.4) +15.7 pp 508
62 Anti-roll bar A suspension component missing, likely to become detached or directional stability impaired 0.38% (95% CI 0.2–0.8) +17.0 pp 1,865
63 Coil spring corroded 0.35% (95% CI 0.2–0.6) +13.9 pp 4,809
64 Linkage damaged but not seriously weakened 0.35% (95% CI 0.2–0.6) +12.7 pp 3,729
65 Other suspension component A suspension component insecurely attached to chassis or axle 0.31% (95% CI 0.1–1.1) +13.4 pp 643
66 Suspension arm A suspension component fractured or likely to fail 0.30% (95% CI 0.2–0.6) +19.2 pp 2,992
67 Attachment bracket and mounting A suspension component excessively damaged or corroded 0.29% (95% CI 0.1–0.7) +20.5 pp 1,379
68 Anti-roll bar damaged but not seriously weakened 0.29% (95% CI 0.1–0.7) +12.4 pp 1,397
69 Sub-frame A suspension component insecurely attached to chassis or axle 0.26% (95% CI 0.1–1.0) +17.9 pp 755
70 Mounting damaged but not seriously weakened 0.26% (95% CI 0.1–0.7) +3.7 pp 1,514
71 Sub-frame mounting prescribed areas The strength or continuity of the load bearing structure within 30cm of any sub-frame, spring or suspension component mounting (a 'prescribed area') is so weakened that control of the vehicle is likely to be adversely affected 0.26% (95% CI 0.1–0.5) +30.1 pp 2,696
72 Suspension arm A suspension component missing, likely to become detached or directional stability impaired 0.20% (95% CI 0.1–0.5) +19.9 pp 2,496
73 Mounting A spring or spring component fractured or seriously weakened 0.19% (95% CI 0.0–1.1) +8.6 pp 533
74 Other suspension component A suspension component missing, likely to become detached or directional stability impaired 0.18% (95% CI 0.0–1.0) +13.7 pp 541
75 Sub-frame damaged but not seriously weakened 0.15% (95% CI 0.0–0.9) +23.0 pp 651
76 Anti-roll bar A suspension component insecurely attached to chassis or axle 0.15% (95% CI 0.0–0.6) +16.7 pp 1,318
77 Attachment bracket and mounting mounting corroded but not seriously weakened 0.15% (95% CI 0.0–0.5) +19.3 pp 1,335
78 Sub-frame A suspension component missing, likely to become detached or directional stability impaired 0.13% (95% CI 0.0–0.7) +31.6 pp 753
79 Mounting A spring insecurely attached to chassis or axle 0.12% (95% CI 0.0–0.6) +8.0 pp 869
80 Sub-frame A suspension component fractured or likely to fail 0.10% (95% CI 0.0–0.4) +27.1 pp 1,941
81 Swivel pins and bushes A stub axle swivel pin and/or bush insecure or directional stability is impaired 0.07% (95% CI 0.0–0.4) +16.3 pp 1,519
82 Macpherson strut A suspension component insecurely attached to chassis or axle 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.5) +15.5 pp 843
83 Coil spring worn 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.5) +15.5 pp 778
84 Sub-frame mounting prescribed areas prescribed area damaged but not considered excessive 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.7) +27.6 pp 551

Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment

#Certificate wordingFailed againNot-tested gapCars
1 Headlamp aim The aim of a headlamp is not within limits laid down in the requirements 8.8% (95% CI 8.7–8.9) +12.4 pp 553,422
2 Position lamp A lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning 8.6% (95% CI 8.5–8.7) +12.9 pp 565,083
3 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 7.3% (95% CI 7.2–7.5) +11.6 pp 124,834
4 Horn Audible warning inoperative 7.1% (95% CI 7.0–7.3) +12.5 pp 88,092
5 Stop lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning 7.0% (95% CI 6.9–7.0) +10.8 pp 395,913
6 Headlamp reflector or lens seriously defective or missing 6.4% (95% CI 6.2–6.7) +18.6 pp 47,290
7 Headlamp has a product on the lens but not seriously reducing light output 6.1% (95% CI 5.8–6.3) +18.3 pp 41,531
8 Daytime running lamps A lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning 5.8% (95% CI 5.2–6.4) -4.1 pp 5,763
9 A headlamp or light source missing, inoperative or more than ½ not functioning in the case of LED 5.4% (95% CI 5.4–5.5) +10.6 pp 339,320
10 Outline marker lamp A lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning 5.4% (95% CI 4.7–6.1) +5.0 pp 4,018
11 Registration plate lamp(s) A rear registration plate lamp or light source missing or inoperative in the case of multiple lamps or light sources 5.1% (95% CI 5.0–5.2) +11.6 pp 246,610
12 Reversing lamps A reversing lamp inoperative 4.4% (95% CI 4.2–4.6) +3.7 pp 33,550
13 Indicator or hazard warning switch inoperative 4.4% (95% CI 4.1–4.7) +10.8 pp 17,370
14 Side repeaters A direction indicator lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning 3.7% (95% CI 3.6–3.8) +6.4 pp 125,571
15 Headlamp levelling device inoperative 3.6% (95% CI 3.5–3.8) +9.1 pp 39,066
16 A stop lamp not showing a steady red light or has significantly reduced light intensity 3.5% (95% CI 3.2–3.9) +11.0 pp 9,411
17 Rear fog lamp tell-tale A mandatory tell-tale for main beam headlamp or rear fog lamp missing or inoperative 3.5% (95% CI 3.0–4.0) +13.0 pp 5,012
18 Headlamp emitted colour, position or intensity not in accordance with the requirements 3.5% (95% CI 3.3–3.7) +14.4 pp 32,413
19 Front or rear fog lamp emitted colour, position or intensity not in accordance with the requirements 3.4% (95% CI 3.1–3.7) +8.9 pp 12,742
20 A headlamp cleaning device inoperative in the case of LED or gas discharge systems (HID) 3.0% (95% CI 2.7–3.4) -0.9 pp 8,373
21 Individual direction indicators A direction indicator lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning 3.0% (95% CI 2.8–3.1) +16.4 pp 52,165
22 Headlamp Lamp not securely attached 2.8% (95% CI 2.7–3.0) +13.8 pp 46,099
23 Headlamp Light source and lamp not compatible 2.8% (95% CI 2.5–3.1) +9.2 pp 10,912
24 Headlamp aim not tested Headlamp aim unable to be tested 2.8% (95% CI 2.7–2.9) +10.2 pp 87,360
25 Position lamp slightly affected by the operation of another lamp 2.7% (95% CI 2.5–2.9) +17.2 pp 19,059
26 Front or rear fog lamp switch inoperative or not operating in accordance with the requirements 2.6% (95% CI 2.3–3.0) +12.3 pp 7,479
27 Stop lamps all missing or inoperative 2.5% (95% CI 2.3–2.7) +15.2 pp 24,603
28 Rear reflectors Reflector missing or reflecting white to the rear 2.3% (95% CI 2.1–2.6) +11.2 pp 11,563
29 Individual direction indicators slightly affected by the operation of another lamp 2.3% (95% CI 2.0–2.7) +18.2 pp 7,558
30 Registration plate lamp(s) Rear registration plate lamp does not illuminate simultaneously with the position lamps 2.2% (95% CI 2.1–2.4) +12.8 pp 33,185
31 Trailer electrical socket A 13 pin trailer socket not functioning at all 2.1% (95% CI 1.3–3.2) +5.7 pp 913
32 Lamp Indicator or hazard warning switch does not operate in accordance with the requirements 2.1% (95% CI 1.7–2.5) +14.1 pp 6,092
33 Main beam tell-tale A mandatory tell-tale for main beam headlamp or rear fog lamp missing or inoperative 2.0% (95% CI 1.5–2.8) +17.9 pp 1,841
34 Position lamp Lamp showing red light to the front, white light to the rear or has heavily reduced light intensity 2.0% (95% CI 1.8–2.2) +14.0 pp 17,773
35 Trailer electrical socket A 13 pin trailer socket not functioning correctly 1.9% (95% CI 1.4–2.6) +2.3 pp 2,001
36 Front fog lamps 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 1.9% (95% CI 1.5–2.3) -2.7 pp 4,853
37 Individual direction indicators slightly discoloured 1.8% (95% CI 1.8–1.9) +12.1 pp 102,004
38 Stop lamp slightly affected by the operation of another lamp 1.8% (95% CI 1.6–2.0) +15.4 pp 13,425
39 Stop lamps remain on when the brakes are released 1.8% (95% CI 1.4–2.1) +15.2 pp 5,482
40 A front or rear fog lamp likely to become detached 1.7% (95% CI 1.1–2.7) +7.0 pp 1,101
41 Dipswitch Headlamp 'dip' switch does not operate in accordance with the requirements 1.7% (95% CI 1.2–2.3) +18.0 pp 2,509
42 Battery(ies) A battery insecure and likely to fall from carrier or cause a short circuit 1.5% (95% CI 1.4–1.7) +23.4 pp 23,805
43 Switch does not operate in accordance with the requirements or the rear position lamps can be switched off when the headlamps are on 1.5% (95% CI 1.0–2.1) +15.2 pp 1,861
44 Headlamp has a product on the light source but not seriously reducing light output 1.4% (95% CI 1.2–1.8) +18.1 pp 6,090
45 Rear fog lamp slightly affected by the operation of another lamp 1.4% (95% CI 0.9–2.0) +14.5 pp 1,974
46 Rear reflectors Reflector defective or damaged by more than 50% of the reflecting surface 1.3% (95% CI 1.1–1.6) +8.2 pp 7,367
47 Battery(ies) A battery leaking 1.3% (95% CI 0.7–2.3) +3.2 pp 845
48 Rear fog lamp A lens defective such that emitted light is adversely affected 1.2% (95% CI 1.0–1.5) +8.3 pp 6,803
49 Horn Audible warning sound not in accordance with requirements 1.1% (95% CI 0.9–1.5) +11.2 pp 4,565
50 Headlamp levelling device Manual levelling device cannot be operated from the driver's seat 1.1% (95% CI 0.8–1.6) +9.7 pp 2,660
51 Registration plate lamp(s) A registration plate lamp likely to become detached 1.0% (95% CI 0.6–1.7) +14.3 pp 1,476
52 All direction indicators A direction indicator lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning 0.99% (95% CI 0.8–1.3) +19.5 pp 5,786
53 Stop lamp A lens defective such that the emitted light is adversely affected 0.92% (95% CI 0.6–1.4) +14.8 pp 2,404
54 Reversing lamps Reversing lamp emitted colour, position or intensity not in accordance with the requirements 0.85% (95% CI 0.5–1.4) +4.5 pp 1,766
55 Position lamp Defective lens 0.83% (95% CI 0.6–1.2) +14.5 pp 3,840
56 Position lamp A lamp with a product on the lens or light source which shows red light to the front, white light to the rear or has heavily reduced light intensity 0.79% (95% CI 0.4–1.4) +15.5 pp 1,391
57 Individual direction indicators A lens defective such that the emitted light is adversely affected 0.79% (95% CI 0.4–1.4) +17.1 pp 1,394
58 A trailer electrical socket wiring insulation damaged or deteriorated and likely to cause a short-circuit 0.78% (95% CI 0.3–2.0) +16.4 pp 515
59 Side repeaters A lens defective such that the emitted light is adversely affected 0.72% (95% CI 0.5–1.0) +8.1 pp 4,970
60 Position lamp Lamp likely to become detached 0.68% (95% CI 0.3–1.5) +15.4 pp 877
61 All direction indicators slightly affected by the operation of another lamp 0.66% (95% CI 0.3–1.5) +20.1 pp 754
62 Non-obligatory stop lamp not working 0.64% (95% CI 0.5–0.9) +9.3 pp 5,156
63 Headlamp Product on the lens or light source which obviously reduces light intensity or changes emitted colour to other than white or yellow 0.62% (95% CI 0.2–1.6) +19.5 pp 642
64 Electrical wiring insecure and in contact with sharp edges or connectors likely to become disconnected 0.58% (95% CI 0.3–1.0) +16.8 pp 1,909
65 A trailer electrical socket likely to become detached 0.55% (95% CI 0.2–1.6) +17.5 pp 543
66 Side repeaters Lamp emitted colour, position or intensity not in accordance with the requirements 0.48% (95% CI 0.4–0.7) +4.7 pp 7,887
67 Mandatory headlamps, intended to be a matched pair, are not the same shape, size or colour 0.44% (95% CI 0.2–1.0) +11.8 pp 1,126
68 Reversing lamp switch not operating in accordance with the requirements 0.44% (95% CI 0.1–1.3) +5.7 pp 688
69 Electrical wiring likely to touch hot or rotating parts, drag on the ground or the connectors for braking or steering disconnected 0.39% (95% CI 0.2–0.7) +15.5 pp 2,582
70 All direction indicators slightly discoloured 0.35% (95% CI 0.2–0.5) +12.1 pp 5,642
71 Rear reflectors Reflector likely to become detached 0.32% (95% CI 0.1–1.2) +11.1 pp 627
72 Side repeaters A lamp likely to become detached 0.28% (95% CI 0.1–0.8) +10.2 pp 1,078
73 Individual direction indicators Lamp emitted colour, position or intensity not in accordance with the requirements 0.22% (95% CI 0.1–0.6) +13.4 pp 1,855

Brakes

#Certificate wordingFailed againNot-tested gapCars
1 Rbt (sp) Parking brake efficiency below minimum requirement 8.3% (95% CI 8.3–8.4) +12.6 pp 356,618
2 Anti-lock braking system Warning device shows system malfunction 6.7% (95% CI 6.6–6.9) +16.4 pp 123,785
3 Parking brake performance Parking brake inoperative on one side 6.3% (95% CI 6.2–6.4) +13.0 pp 167,276
4 Electronic stability control warning lamp not working 5.4% (95% CI 5.3–5.6) +10.4 pp 60,979
5 Service brake performance binding but not excessively 4.8% (95% CI 4.7–4.8) +8.7 pp 286,992
6 Decelerometer (sp) Parking brake efficiency below minimum requirement 4.6% (95% CI 4.3–5.0) +13.9 pp 11,715
7 Rigid brake pipes corroded, covered in grease or other material 4.5% (95% CI 4.4–4.6) +13.8 pp 199,907
8 Rbt (sp) Parking brake efficiency less than 50% of the required value 4.5% (95% CI 4.4–4.7) +17.1 pp 91,651
9 Brake pedal anti-slip provision missing, loose or worn smooth 4.0% (95% CI 3.7–4.3) +12.3 pp 16,685
10 Service brake performance Service brake efficiency below minimum requirement 3.7% (95% CI 3.5–3.8) +13.3 pp 56,819
11 Lever Ratchet not holding correctly 3.6% (95% CI 2.8–4.6) +9.8 pp 1,719
12 Parking brake lever has excessive movement indicating incorrect adjustment 3.6% (95% CI 3.4–3.7) +9.4 pp 61,073
13 Service brake imbalance 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. 3.2% (95% CI 3.1–3.3) +12.9 pp 112,629
14 Load sensing valves linkage defective but function not impaired 2.9% (95% CI 2.2–3.7) +25.3 pp 1,943
15 Hand lever A service brake control has insufficient reserve travel 2.8% (95% CI 2.7–3.0) +9.9 pp 38,959
16 Decelerometer (sp) Parking brake efficiency less than 50% of the required value 2.8% (95% CI 2.4–3.3) +13.8 pp 5,236
17 Electronic stability control ESC switch damaged or not functioning correctly 2.7% (95% CI 2.0–3.6) +11.8 pp 1,625
18 Gradient tester (sp) when fully applied, the parking brake is incapable of holding the vehicle on a 16% gradient 2.6% (95% CI 1.9–3.6) +11.0 pp 1,268
19 Load sensing valves stiff 2.5% (95% CI 2.0–3.1) +24.5 pp 3,192
20 Plate brake tester (sp) Parking brake efficiency below minimum requirement 2.5% (95% CI 1.6–3.8) +12.3 pp 769
21 Parking (secondary brake performance) Braking effort inadequate at any wheel 2.3% (95% CI 2.0–2.6) +13.2 pp 11,453
22 Brake pads wearing thin 2.3% (95% CI 2.2–2.3) +3.2 pp 588,405
23 Electronic parking brake MIL indicates a malfunction 2.2% (95% CI 1.8–2.7) +10.8 pp 4,865
24 Lever For vehicles first used on or after 1 January 1968 the parking brake is not capable of being maintained in operation by direct mechanical action only 2.2% (95% CI 1.4–3.6) +16.6 pp 725
25 Service brake imbalance requirements only just met. It would appear that the braking system requires adjustment or repair. 2.1% (95% CI 2.0–2.2) +9.3 pp 60,130
26 Lever Restriction in free movement of the braking system 2.1% (95% CI 1.6–2.7) +10.7 pp 2,684
27 Anti-lock braking system Warning device not working 2.0% (95% CI 1.6–2.6) +27.4 pp 2,844
28 Service brake pedal has insufficient reserve travel 2.0% (95% CI 1.8–2.3) +18.2 pp 11,612
29 Brake drums Contaminated with oil, grease etc 2.0% (95% CI 1.2–3.2) +11.8 pp 812
30 Service brake performance Abnormal lag in brake operation on a wheel 1.9% (95% CI 1.8–2.1) +8.9 pp 31,845
31 Master cylinder/servo mounting prescribed area is corroded but not considered excessive 1.7% (95% CI 1.1–2.8) +27.3 pp 980
32 Parking brake efficiency (Trikes, quads and pre-68 vehicles) efficiency only just met. It would appear that the braking system requires adjustment or repair. 1.7% (95% CI 1.4–2.0) +14.6 pp 6,094
33 Electronic parking brake Parking brake control missing, defective or inoperative 1.6% (95% CI 1.2–2.1) +7.8 pp 3,191
34 Flexible brake hoses slightly deteriorated 1.6% (95% CI 1.4–1.7) +20.6 pp 19,894
35 Service brake performance Braking effort inadequate at a wheel 1.5% (95% CI 1.3–1.8) +14.8 pp 12,385
36 Lever defective but can be satisfactorily operated 1.5% (95% CI 1.2–2.0) +11.6 pp 3,147
37 Service brake performance fluctuating, but not excessively 1.5% (95% CI 1.4–1.5) +7.2 pp 99,151
38 Brake fluid contaminated 1.4% (95% CI 1.1–1.7) +11.6 pp 5,363
39 Service brake performance Braking effort not recording at a wheel 1.4% (95% CI 1.2–1.6) +14.2 pp 11,616
40 Pedal Service brake control not releasing correctly and functionality of brakes affected 1.4% (95% CI 0.7–2.6) +19.0 pp 662
41 Cable Restriction in free movement of the braking system 1.4% (95% CI 1.0–1.9) +12.7 pp 2,733
42 Parking (secondary brake performance) Braking effort not recording at any wheel 1.3% (95% CI 1.1–1.6) +16.4 pp 6,093
43 Abnormal movement of levers indicating maladjustment or excessive wear 1.3% (95% CI 1.0–1.8) +9.7 pp 3,165
44 Cable, rod or joint insecure 1.3% (95% CI 1.0–1.7) +18.0 pp 4,728
45 Flexible brake hoses has slight corrosion to ferrule 1.2% (95% CI 1.1–1.3) +18.8 pp 23,598
46 Brake discs Contaminated with oil, grease etc 1.2% (95% CI 0.9–1.6) +10.3 pp 4,187
47 Service brake efficiency (Trikes, quads and pre-68 vehicles) efficiency only just met. It would appear that the braking system requires adjustment or repair. 1.2% (95% CI 0.6–2.3) +14.5 pp 678
48 Rigid brake pipes Leaking brake pipe or connection on a hydraulic system 1.2% (95% CI 1.1–1.3) +15.1 pp 30,094
49 Brake performance not tested Brake performance unable to be tested 1.2% (95% CI 1.1–1.3) +13.4 pp 53,394
50 Servos Brake servo defective or ineffective 1.1% (95% CI 0.8–1.7) +21.3 pp 2,034
51 Brake discs worn, but not excessively 1.00% (95% CI 1.0–1.0) +5.3 pp 189,700
52 Service brake efficiency (Trikes, quads and pre-68 vehicles) imbalance requirements only just met. It would appear that the braking system requires adjustment or repair. 0.99% (95% CI 0.7–1.3) +10.6 pp 4,949
53 Flexible brake hoses Brake hose bulging under pressure 0.95% (95% CI 0.5–1.7) +15.6 pp 1,265
54 Parking brake efficiency (Trikes, quads and pre-68 vehicles) Parking brake efficiency less than 50% of the required value 0.87% (95% CI 0.5–1.5) +15.7 pp 1,498
55 Brake pads Brake lining or pad worn down to wear indicator 0.83% (95% CI 0.8–0.9) +2.6 pp 52,753
56 Hand lever Service brake control not releasing correctly and functionality of brakes affected 0.82% (95% CI 0.3–1.9) +12.9 pp 612
57 Hydraulic brake callipers Actuator leaking and braking performance not affected 0.78% (95% CI 0.6–0.9) +10.3 pp 13,378
58 Rigid brake pipes Brake pipe likely to become detached or damaged 0.76% (95% CI 0.5–1.2) +22.4 pp 2,487
59 Brake drums Brake drum back plate insecure 0.74% (95% CI 0.3–1.6) +18.0 pp 806
60 Flexible brake hoses Flexible brake hose excessively damaged, chafed, twisted or stretched 0.74% (95% CI 0.6–0.9) +12.3 pp 17,765
61 Servos Brake servo inoperative 0.72% (95% CI 0.4–1.5) +23.6 pp 969
62 Other braking system component prescribed area is corroded but not considered excessive 0.70% (95% CI 0.3–1.4) +26.3 pp 1,005
63 Service brake performance grabbing slightly 0.69% (95% CI 0.4–1.2) +10.0 pp 1,888
64 Decelerometer (sp) Service brake efficiency below minimum requirement 0.65% (95% CI 0.4–1.0) +14.2 pp 2,624
65 Electronic parking brake defective but can be satisfactorily operated 0.65% (95% CI 0.4–1.0) +5.8 pp 2,780
66 Service brake performance Service brake efficiency less than 50% of the required value 0.64% (95% CI 0.4–0.9) +20.1 pp 4,197
67 Brake discs worn, pitted or scored, but not seriously weakened 0.63% (95% CI 0.6–0.7) +7.4 pp 76,299
68 Anti-lock braking system component slightly damaged 0.62% (95% CI 0.3–1.1) +19.4 pp 1,610
69 Lever Parking brake control missing, defective or inoperative 0.62% (95% CI 0.4–1.1) +19.1 pp 1,944
70 Brake pads a brake lining or pad contaminated with oil, grease etc 0.61% (95% CI 0.4–1.0) +8.6 pp 2,630
71 Cable damaged but not to excess 0.60% (95% CI 0.5–0.8) +12.4 pp 9,032
72 Electronic braking system Warning device shows system malfunction 0.59% (95% CI 0.4–0.9) +10.5 pp 4,043
73 Brake fluid close to minimum mark 0.58% (95% CI 0.4–0.9) +15.5 pp 4,292
74 Leaks Air leak causing a noticeable drop in pressure or audible air leak 0.56% (95% CI 0.3–1.2) +11.9 pp 1,077
75 Flexible brake hoses Brake hoses or connections leaking on hydraulic systems 0.55% (95% CI 0.4–0.7) +9.1 pp 7,615
76 Pedal wearing smooth 0.55% (95% CI 0.3–0.9) +11.7 pp 2,364
77 Service brake performance requirements only just met. It would appear that the braking system requires adjustment or repair. 0.54% (95% CI 0.4–0.8) +9.4 pp 4,043
78 Service brake performance Brakes imbalance across an axle such that the vehicle deviates excessively from a straight line 0.50% (95% CI 0.2–1.5) +14.2 pp 600
79 Parking (secondary brake performance) grabbing slightly 0.50% (95% CI 0.2–1.3) +9.5 pp 803
80 Valves Hydraulic fluid leak from a brake valve 0.47% (95% CI 0.2–1.0) +16.7 pp 1,271
81 Anti-lock braking system wiring damaged but not excessively 0.46% (95% CI 0.2–0.9) +18.3 pp 1,518
82 Linkage Restriction in free movement of the braking system 0.45% (95% CI 0.2–1.3) +14.7 pp 662
83 Anti-lock braking system wheel speed sensor damaged but not excessively 0.44% (95% CI 0.2–1.3) +21.6 pp 680
84 Hydraulic brake cylinder Actuator leaking and braking performance not affected 0.41% (95% CI 0.3–0.6) +13.6 pp 6,128
85 Brake fluid not visible 0.37% (95% CI 0.1–1.1) +22.4 pp 817
86 Hydraulic brake callipers Actuator insecure or inadequately mounted and braking performance affected 0.37% (95% CI 0.2–0.6) +11.8 pp 4,373
87 Hydraulic brake cylinder Actuator leaking and braking performance affected 0.35% (95% CI 0.2–0.6) +13.9 pp 2,863
88 Reservoirs Brake fluid significantly below minimum mark 0.32% (95% CI 0.1–0.8) +17.1 pp 1,548
89 Rigid brake pipes Brake pipe is at imminent risk of failure or fracture 0.32% (95% CI 0.2–0.5) +18.4 pp 5,977
90 Flexible brake hoses A brake hose ferrule excessively corroded 0.24% (95% CI 0.1–0.4) +22.2 pp 4,210
91 Hydraulic brake callipers Actuator leaking and braking performance affected 0.24% (95% CI 0.1–0.6) +14.3 pp 1,685
92 Other components Any braking system component insecure or inadequately mounted 0.23% (95% CI 0.1–0.6) +10.8 pp 1,727
93 Hand lever pivots slightly worn 0.21% (95% CI 0.1–0.8) +12.0 pp 959
94 Rigid brake pipes Leaking brake pipe or connection on an air brake system 0.18% (95% CI 0.1–0.4) +15.1 pp 2,805
95 Brake linings wearing thin 0.16% (95% CI 0.1–0.4) +4.4 pp 3,088
96 Rigid brake pipes slightly damaged 0.16% (95% CI 0.1–0.4) +15.5 pp 3,118
97 Flexible brake hoses Brake hose damaged and likely to fail 0.16% (95% CI 0.1–0.4) +18.1 pp 2,511
98 Brake pads Brake lining or pad missing or incorrectly mounted 0.12% (95% CI 0.1–0.2) +8.3 pp 6,562
99 Reservoirs Master cylinder reservoir cap missing 0.10% (95% CI 0.0–0.5) +7.7 pp 1,048
100 Cable guide defective affecting operation 0.09% (95% CI 0.0–0.5) +12.9 pp 1,148
101 Brake discs Brake disc or drum excessively weakened, insecure or fractured 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.5) +11.5 pp 727
102 Linkage corroded but not seriously weakened 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.5) +15.4 pp 715
103 Brake linings Brake lining or pad missing or incorrectly mounted 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.6) +7.5 pp 692
104 Flexible brake hoses Brake hoses or connections leaking on air brake systems 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.7) +11.8 pp 585
105 Hydraulic brake callipers Actuator cracked or damaged and braking performance affected 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.7) +12.4 pp 523
106 Valves Hydraulic fluid leak from a brake valve such that brake functionality is affected 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.8) +16.2 pp 507

Tyres

#Certificate wordingFailed againNot-tested gapCars
1 A tyre pressure monitoring system malfunctioning or obviously inoperative 7.9% (95% CI 7.7–8.1) -1.7 pp 90,173
2 Tread depth worn close to legal limit/worn on edge 5.0% (95% CI 4.9–5.0) +5.8 pp 767,114
3 Condition A tyre cords visible or damaged 3.4% (95% CI 3.3–3.4) +4.5 pp 449,245
4 Condition has a cut but not deep enough to reach the ply or cords 3.0% (95% CI 3.0–3.1) +0.1 pp 423,762
5 Condition slightly damaged/cracking or perishing 1.6% (95% CI 1.6–1.7) +3.8 pp 178,497
6 Size/type Tyres on the same axle or on twin wheels are different sizes 1.2% (95% CI 1.1–1.3) +13.2 pp 35,837
7 Condition wheel/tyre protruding beyond wheel arch 0.88% (95% CI 0.7–1.1) +15.2 pp 6,453
8 Condition a tyre has a lump, bulge or tear caused by separation or partial failure of its structure. This includes any lifting of the tread rubber 0.65% (95% CI 0.6–0.7) +1.3 pp 56,997
9 Condition a tyre not fitted in compliance with the manufacturers sidewall instruction 0.50% (95% CI 0.4–0.6) +6.2 pp 17,265
10 Valve stem slightly damaged 0.48% (95% CI 0.3–0.7) +5.6 pp 5,789
11 Condition A tyre incorrectly seated on the wheel rim 0.31% (95% CI 0.1–1.1) +9.6 pp 635
12 Size/type Tyres on the same axle of different structure 0.23% (95% CI 0.1–0.8) +10.7 pp 860
13 Condition A recut tyre fitted to a vehicle not permitted to be fitted with recut tyres 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.4) +10.6 pp 999

Visibility

#Certificate wordingFailed againNot-tested gapCars
1 Windscreen washers not working or not providing sufficient fluid to clear the windscreen 6.8% (95% CI 6.7–6.9) +9.6 pp 502,334
2 A bonnet that cannot be safely secured in the closed position 2.7% (95% CI 2.4–2.9) +15.2 pp 14,483
3 An obstruction significantly affecting the driver's view of the road through the swept area of the windscreen or an obligatory external mirror not visible 2.2% (95% CI 2.0–2.4) +8.7 pp 20,653
4 Wipers Wiper blade missing or obviously not clearing the windscreen 1.9% (95% CI 1.9–2.0) +5.1 pp 482,354
5 Mirrors Obligatory mirror or device inoperative, excessively damaged or insecure 1.5% (95% CI 1.4–1.7) +13.9 pp 28,484
6 Wipers Wiper not operating or missing 1.5% (95% CI 1.4–1.7) +18.6 pp 16,976
7 Mirrors Obligatory mirror or device missing 1.4% (95% CI 1.2–1.7) +17.3 pp 8,272
8 Bonnet primary retaining device slightly deteriorated 1.2% (95% CI 0.7–2.0) +16.2 pp 1,082
9 A bonnet primary retaining device excessively deteriorated, ineffective or insecure 1.1% (95% CI 0.8–1.4) +15.4 pp 5,964
10 Items removed from driver's view prior to test 0.88% (95% CI 0.6–1.4) +12.4 pp 1,923
11 Mirrors Obligatory mirror or device not providing an adequate view to the rear 0.72% (95% CI 0.5–1.0) +16.4 pp 5,153
12 Windscreen or window damaged or seriously discoloured and affecting the driver's view of the road or of an obligatory external mirror 0.64% (95% CI 0.5–0.8) +13.3 pp 18,485
13 A bonnet seriously at risk of opening inadvertently 0.62% (95% CI 0.3–1.2) +20.4 pp 1,460
14 Windscreen or window in an unacceptable condition e.g. due to excessive scratching 0.51% (95% CI 0.4–0.7) +15.1 pp 6,249
15 Indirect vision devices Obligatory mirror or device inoperative, excessively damaged or insecure 0.23% (95% CI 0.1–0.8) +17.2 pp 884
16 Windscreen in such a condition that visibility through swept area is seriously affected 0.09% (95% CI 0.0–0.3) +13.7 pp 2,306

Noise, emissions and leaks

#Certificate wordingFailed againNot-tested gapCars
1 Malfunction indicator lamp Engine MIL illuminated indicating a malfunction 14.8% (95% CI 14.7–14.9) +11.5 pp 391,384 all fuels
2 On or after 01/01/2014 Smoke opacity levels exceed the manufacturer's specified limit 11.8% (95% CI 11.4–12.3) +0.2 pp 20,752
3 On or after 01/07/2008 Smoke opacity levels exceed the manufacturer's specified limit 10.3% (95% CI 10.0–10.6) +10.1 pp 36,817
4 Catalyst emissions Emissions levels exceed default limits 9.6% (95% CI 9.4–9.8) +18.7 pp 82,254
5 Catalyst emissions Emissions levels exceed the manufacturer's specified limits 9.4% (95% CI 9.2–9.6) +18.5 pp 73,521
6 Pre 01/07/2008 Turbo Smoke opacity levels exceed the manufacturer's specified limit 8.7% (95% CI 8.3–9.1) +19.1 pp 20,637
7 On or after 01/01/2014 Smoke opacity levels exceed default limit 8.1% (95% CI 7.5–8.9) +2.5 pp 6,093
8 Catalyst emissions Lambda coefficient outside the default limits or the range specified by the manufacturer 7.5% (95% CI 7.4–7.6) +13.4 pp 166,607
9 On or after 01/07/2008 Smoke opacity levels exceed default limit 6.4% (95% CI 5.9–6.9) +13.7 pp 10,728
10 Non catalyst emissions Emissions levels exceed default limits 5.8% (95% CI 5.2–6.4) +24.3 pp 6,547
11 On or after 01/07/2008 Emissions test not completed because smoke levels are significantly in excess of the specified limit values 5.4% (95% CI 4.8–6.0) +14.9 pp 5,083
12 Pre 01/07/2008 Turbo Emissions test not completed because smoke levels are significantly in excess of the specified limit values 5.1% (95% CI 4.5–5.7) +24.7 pp 5,109
13 Pre 01/07/2008 Non turbo Smoke opacity levels exceed default limit 4.9% (95% CI 4.2–5.8) +15.2 pp 2,663
14 On or after 01/01/2014 Emissions test not completed because smoke levels are significantly in excess of the specified limit values 4.7% (95% CI 3.8–5.8) +6.8 pp 1,821
15 On or after 01/01/2014 Exhaust on a vehicle fitted with a diesel particulate filter emits visible smoke of any colour 4.1% (95% CI 3.4–5.0) +4.4 pp 2,377
16 Pre 01/07/2008 Turbo Smoke opacity levels exceed default limit 4.0% (95% CI 3.6–4.6) +22.5 pp 6,021
17 Pre 01/07/2008 Non turbo Smoke opacity levels exceed the manufacturer's specified limit 3.6% (95% CI 2.9–4.3) +17.7 pp 2,719
18 Engine oil leaks leak, but not excessive 3.4% (95% CI 3.2–3.5) +22.7 pp 38,080
19 On or after 01/07/2008 Exhaust on a vehicle fitted with a diesel particulate filter emits visible smoke of any colour 3.1% (95% CI 2.6–3.7) +17.1 pp 3,425
20 Emissions not tested Emissions test unable to be completed 3.0% (95% CI 2.9–3.1) +18.5 pp 132,012
21 Catalytic converter Emission control equipment fitted by the manufacturer missing, obviously modified or obviously defective 2.8% (95% CI 2.3–3.4) +22.5 pp 3,411
22 Catalyst emissions emits blue smoke during acceleration 2.5% (95% CI 2.0–3.0) +39.1 pp 4,156
23 Catalyst emissions emits black smoke during acceleration 2.4% (95% CI 1.8–3.3) +23.8 pp 1,480
24 Pre 01/07/2008 Turbo emits excessive smoke or vapour but not likely to obscure the vision of other road users 2.4% (95% CI 1.8–3.2) +32.8 pp 2,002
25 On or after 01/07/2008 emits excessive smoke or vapour but not likely to obscure the vision of other road users 2.0% (95% CI 1.5–2.8) +22.4 pp 1,833
26 On or after 01/07/2008 Evidence that the diesel particulate filter has been tampered with 1.9% (95% CI 1.2–3.1) +17.6 pp 874
27 Catalyst emissions An induction or exhaust leak that could affect emissions levels 1.8% (95% CI 1.7–2.0) +14.0 pp 38,770
28 Pre 01/07/2008 Turbo Evidence that the diesel particulate filter has been tampered with 1.7% (95% CI 1.0–2.9) +24.6 pp 763
29 Catalyst emissions The engine is idling at a speed clearly above its normal idling speed 1.5% (95% CI 1.1–2.1) +18.3 pp 2,450
30 Pre 01/07/2008 Turbo Exhaust on a vehicle fitted with a diesel particulate filter emits visible smoke of any colour 1.5% (95% CI 1.0–2.3) +28.0 pp 1,330
31 Exhaust gas recirculation valve Emission control equipment fitted by the manufacturer missing, obviously modified or obviously defective 1.5% (95% CI 0.8–2.8) +17.6 pp 601
32 Pre 01/07/2008 Non turbo Emissions test not completed because smoke levels are significantly in excess of the specified limit values 1.2% (95% CI 0.6–2.4) +25.5 pp 655
33 On or after 01/01/2014 emits excessive smoke or vapour but not likely to obscure the vision of other road users 1.2% (95% CI 0.6–2.4) +7.5 pp 600
34 Particulate filter Emission control equipment fitted by the manufacturer missing, obviously modified or obviously defective 0.89% (95% CI 0.5–1.5) +15.3 pp 1,351
35 Pre 01/07/2008 Non turbo An induction or exhaust leak that could affect emissions levels 0.88% (95% CI 0.7–1.1) +17.4 pp 10,470
36 Sound deadening material not fully secure 0.73% (95% CI 0.4–1.5) +11.9 pp 953
37 Non catalyst emissions emits blue smoke during acceleration 0.72% (95% CI 0.3–1.6) +34.9 pp 837
38 Undertray not fully secure 0.65% (95% CI 0.4–1.0) +10.3 pp 2,765
39 Transmission oil leaks leak, but not excessive 0.63% (95% CI 0.4–1.0) +15.4 pp 2,836
40 Engine oil leaks Fluid leaking continuously and likely to pose a serious risk to road safety 0.58% (95% CI 0.3–1.0) +22.3 pp 2,418
41 Other leaks leak, but not excessive 0.56% (95% CI 0.4–0.8) +16.4 pp 3,933
42 Other emission control equipment Emission control equipment fitted by the manufacturer missing, obviously modified or obviously defective 0.48% (95% CI 0.2–1.0) +12.5 pp 1,473
43 Catalyst emissions emits dense blue or clearly visible black smoke for a continuous period of 5 seconds at idle 0.41% (95% CI 0.2–1.0) +34.1 pp 979
44 Pre 01/07/2008 Turbo An induction or exhaust leak that could affect emissions levels 0.32% (95% CI 0.2–0.7) +23.8 pp 2,184
45 Non catalyst emissions An induction or exhaust leak that could affect emissions levels 0.30% (95% CI 0.1–0.8) +17.5 pp 1,314
46 On or after 01/01/2014 An induction or exhaust leak that could affect emissions levels 0.23% (95% CI 0.1–0.5) +9.9 pp 2,567
47 On or after 01/07/2008 An induction or exhaust leak that could affect emissions levels 0.23% (95% CI 0.1–0.5) +16.4 pp 2,586
48 Hydraulic fluid leaks leak, but not excessive 0.22% (95% CI 0.1–0.6) +20.6 pp 1,804
49 Other leaks Fluid leaking continuously and likely to pose a serious risk to road safety 0.21% (95% CI 0.1–0.6) +18.2 pp 1,404
50 Oxygen sensor Emission control equipment fitted by the manufacturer missing, obviously modified or obviously defective 0.13% (95% CI 0.0–0.8) +18.1 pp 748

Body, chassis, structure

#Certificate wordingFailed againNot-tested gapCars
1 Joints A transmission shaft constant velocity joint boot missing or no longer prevents the ingress of dirt etc 12.8% (95% CI 12.7–12.9) +9.9 pp 432,660
2 Integral vehicle structure condition is corroded but structural rigidity is not significantly reduced 6.0% (95% CI 5.8–6.2) +27.9 pp 49,559
3 Chassis condition or chassis corroded within 30cm of a mounting, but not seriously affecting overall security 4.9% (95% CI 4.7–5.1) +28.5 pp 38,417
4 Chassis condition is corroded but structural rigidity is not significantly reduced 4.8% (95% CI 4.5–5.1) +28.4 pp 22,841
5 Door condition A door will not open using the relevant control or close properly 4.0% (95% CI 3.8–4.2) +15.5 pp 51,168
6 Prescribed areas or chassis corroded within 30cm of a mounting, but not seriously affecting overall security 3.5% (95% CI 3.0–4.2) +29.5 pp 3,627
7 Vehicle structure slightly corroded within 30cm of towbar mounting 3.2% (95% CI 2.6–4.0) +23.9 pp 2,776
8 A driver's seat fore and aft adjustment mechanism not functioning as intended. 3.0% (95% CI 2.6–3.4) +14.0 pp 6,768
9 Fuel system leaking excessively or a risk of fire 2.1% (95% CI 1.9–2.4) +15.0 pp 16,945
10 Fuel cap/sealing device Fuel system leaking, or missing or ineffective filler cap 2.1% (95% CI 1.9–2.2) +12.0 pp 28,902
11 Tank Fuel system leaking, or missing or ineffective filler cap 1.9% (95% CI 1.5–2.4) +19.7 pp 3,239
12 Bumpers mountings corroded but not likely to become detached 1.9% (95% CI 1.7–2.1) +21.1 pp 13,003
13 Passenger's seat A passenger seat with a defective structure or the backrest cannot be secured in the upright position. 1.8% (95% CI 1.5–2.2) +16.6 pp 5,244
14 A driver's seat insecure 1.8% (95% CI 1.4–2.3) +22.0 pp 3,754
15 Exhaust system mounting defective 1.8% (95% CI 1.7–1.9) +11.8 pp 80,378
16 A body panel or body component damaged or corroded and likely to cause injury when grazed or contacted, or insecure 1.8% (95% CI 1.5–2.1) +30.8 pp 8,776
17 Other body component A body panel or body component damaged or corroded and likely to cause injury when grazed or contacted, or insecure 1.7% (95% CI 1.5–1.9) +15.3 pp 16,445
18 Chassis condition is fractured but structural rigidity is not significantly reduced 1.7% (95% CI 1.1–2.6) +27.2 pp 1,142
19 Pipe Fuel system leaking, or missing or ineffective filler cap 1.6% (95% CI 1.3–2.0) +16.1 pp 4,988
20 Bumpers Bumper insecure or with damage likely to cause injury when grazed or contacted 1.6% (95% CI 1.4–1.9) +16.0 pp 13,691
21 Strengthening plates or fastenings so insecure that structural rigidity is seriously reduced 1.6% (95% CI 0.9–2.8) +28.1 pp 690
22 Tank slightly loose 1.4% (95% CI 1.0–1.8) +24.0 pp 3,265
23 Boot lid condition A bootlid, tailgate, dropside, loading door or access panel cannot be secured in the closed position 1.4% (95% CI 1.0–1.8) +20.2 pp 3,165
24 Integral vehicle structure condition Vehicle structure corroded to the extent that steering or braking is likely to be adversely affected 1.3% (95% CI 0.8–2.2) +33.9 pp 1,112
25 Joints worn, but not excessively 1.3% (95% CI 1.1–1.6) +15.1 pp 7,526
26 Integral vehicle structure condition is fractured but structural rigidity is not significantly reduced 1.2% (95% CI 0.8–2.0) +31.1 pp 1,290
27 Drive shaft A transmission shaft securing bolts loose or missing 1.2% (95% CI 0.8–2.0) +15.7 pp 1,303
28 Fuel tank, pipe or hose insecure 1.1% (95% CI 0.8–1.7) +16.2 pp 2,210
29 Passenger's seat A passenger seat insecure 1.1% (95% CI 0.8–1.5) +19.5 pp 3,526
30 Exhaust system noisy 1.1% (95% CI 0.8–1.5) +22.5 pp 3,895
31 A driver's seat with a defective structure 1.1% (95% CI 0.6–1.8) +19.7 pp 1,140
32 A floor excessively deteriorated or insecure 1.0% (95% CI 0.6–1.7) +37.0 pp 1,559
33 Prop shaft bearing has slight play 0.97% (95% CI 0.7–1.3) +11.6 pp 4,646
34 Chassis condition Body, cab or chassis corroded at mounting points to the extent that overall security or stability is impaired 0.93% (95% CI 0.7–1.3) +35.8 pp 3,227
35 Chassis condition Vehicle structure corroded to the extent that steering or braking is likely to be adversely affected 0.87% (95% CI 0.5–1.5) +33.8 pp 1,492
36 Engine mounting condition damaged but not to excess 0.86% (95% CI 0.7–1.1) +15.3 pp 8,169
37 Exhaust system Exhaust fumes entering cabin 0.83% (95% CI 0.6–1.1) +18.1 pp 5,160
38 Integral vehicle structure condition is deformed but structural rigidity is not significantly reduced 0.81% (95% CI 0.4–1.8) +26.9 pp 740
39 A driver's seat moving inadvertently or backrest cannot be retained in the upright position 0.81% (95% CI 0.5–1.4) +20.2 pp 1,488
40 Hose Fuel system leaking, or missing or ineffective filler cap 0.80% (95% CI 0.5–1.4) +14.3 pp 1,634
41 Door condition A door likely to open inadvertently or not remain closed in the case of a sliding door 0.78% (95% CI 0.4–1.6) +20.0 pp 896
42 Vehicle structure The strength or continuity of the load bearing structure within 30cm of any towbar mounting bracket is so weakened that the towbar is likely to become detached 0.70% (95% CI 0.3–1.8) +30.6 pp 571
43 Other towbar components component corroded, but not excessively 0.69% (95% CI 0.3–1.5) +23.7 pp 865
44 Flexible couplings slightly deteriorated 0.67% (95% CI 0.4–1.1) +9.6 pp 2,691
45 Exhaust system Fire risk due to fuel tank shield or exhaust shield missing where fitted as original equipment 0.66% (95% CI 0.5–0.9) +13.5 pp 5,796
46 Undertray A body panel or body component likely to become detached 0.63% (95% CI 0.5–0.9) +10.3 pp 5,681
47 Sub-frame condition is corroded but structural rigidity is not significantly reduced 0.61% (95% CI 0.4–0.9) +22.2 pp 3,130
48 Mounting fixings mounting fixing insecure, but overall security not significantly reduced 0.60% (95% CI 0.2–1.7) +27.3 pp 500
49 Joints A transmission joint, belt or chain so worn it is likely to fail 0.58% (95% CI 0.3–1.1) +18.9 pp 1,565
50 Fire risk due to fuel tank shield or exhaust shield missing where fitted as original equipment 0.56% (95% CI 0.4–0.9) +13.1 pp 3,912
51 Other body component component slightly loose 0.55% (95% CI 0.3–0.9) +15.5 pp 2,561
52 A door hinge, catch or pillar missing or insecure 0.52% (95% CI 0.3–1.0) +18.5 pp 1,732
53 Chassis condition is repaired but structural rigidity is not significantly reduced 0.46% (95% CI 0.2–1.1) +31.4 pp 1,084
54 Integral vehicle structure condition is repaired but structural rigidity is not significantly reduced 0.45% (95% CI 0.2–1.0) +33.4 pp 1,322
55 Exhaust system Exhaust fumes causing a danger to health of persons on board 0.42% (95% CI 0.2–0.8) +20.5 pp 2,159
56 Panel slightly loose 0.37% (95% CI 0.2–0.9) +26.1 pp 1,368
57 Drive shaft A transmission shaft likely to become detached 0.35% (95% CI 0.1–1.3) +18.3 pp 574
58 Bumpers Bumper likely to become detached 0.35% (95% CI 0.2–0.7) +26.2 pp 2,013
59 An engine mounting/bracket severely damaged or deteriorated resulting in excessive movement 0.34% (95% CI 0.2–0.7) +16.3 pp 1,748
60 Other body component A body panel or body component likely to become detached 0.27% (95% CI 0.1–0.8) +16.8 pp 1,096
61 Drive shaft A transmission shaft bearing excessively worn 0.24% (95% CI 0.1–0.7) +11.2 pp 1,260
62 Body condition not fully secure 0.19% (95% CI 0.0–1.1) +29.2 pp 517
63 Chassis condition is deformed but structural rigidity is not significantly reduced 0.17% (95% CI 0.0–1.0) +26.7 pp 576
64 Fuel pipe or hose damaged 0.17% (95% CI 0.0–1.0) +21.7 pp 579
65 Exhaust system silencer slightly loose 0.17% (95% CI 0.1–0.3) +13.1 pp 9,409
66 Pipe Fuel system leaking excessively or a risk of fire 0.13% (95% CI 0.0–0.8) +19.1 pp 749
67 A transmission shaft bearing housing fractured or insecure 0.12% (95% CI 0.0–0.7) +12.4 pp 808
68 Engine mounting condition An engine mounting/bracket fractured, missing or excessively loose 0.10% (95% CI 0.0–0.6) +17.4 pp 1,020
69 Exhaust system Any part of the noise suppression system likely to become detached 0.07% (95% CI 0.0–0.2) +12.9 pp 5,442
70 Sub-frame condition Vehicle structure corroded to the extent that steering or braking is likely to be adversely affected 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.7) +26.9 pp 559
71 An engine mounting/bracket fractured, missing or excessively loose 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.7) +17.8 pp 532
72 Belts worn, but not excessively 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.7) +13.1 pp 523

Steering

#Certificate wordingFailed againNot-tested gapCars
1 Steering rack gaiter or ball joint dust cover missing or no longer prevents the ingress of dirt etc 7.6% (95% CI 7.4–7.8) +14.2 pp 68,143
2 Track rod end ball joint has slight play 6.7% (95% CI 6.6–6.8) +9.1 pp 350,028
3 Drag link end Steering rack gaiter or ball joint dust cover missing or no longer prevents the ingress of dirt etc 4.8% (95% CI 4.0–5.8) +8.5 pp 2,230
4 Track rod end Steering rack gaiter or ball joint dust cover missing or no longer prevents the ingress of dirt etc 4.5% (95% CI 4.4–4.6) +3.6 pp 122,724
5 Electronic power steering EPS MIL indicating a system malfunction 2.4% (95% CI 2.0–2.9) +15.8 pp 4,861
6 Other components has slight seepage from a component 2.1% (95% CI 1.8–2.5) +26.0 pp 7,156
7 Drag link end ball joint has slight play 2.0% (95% CI 1.6–2.4) +14.4 pp 5,393
8 Steering box has slight free play detected at steering wheel 1.9% (95% CI 1.1–3.2) +20.4 pp 680
9 Steering rack has slight free play detected at steering wheel 1.9% (95% CI 1.6–2.2) +17.6 pp 10,406
10 Pipes and hoses has slight seepage 1.6% (95% CI 1.3–1.9) +19.7 pp 5,795
11 Operation Power steering fluid leaking or system malfunctioning 1.5% (95% CI 1.2–1.8) +24.7 pp 5,630
12 Operation Power steering fluid reservoir empty 1.3% (95% CI 0.8–2.0) +27.7 pp 1,569
13 Steering arm deformed but serviceable 1.2% (95% CI 0.6–2.4) +12.1 pp 658
14 Steering rack A steering linkage component with excessive movement between components or likely to become detached 1.1% (95% CI 0.6–2.0) +16.8 pp 831
15 Pump has slight seepage 1.1% (95% CI 0.6–2.0) +22.0 pp 932
16 Rams has slight seepage from a joint 1.1% (95% CI 0.6–1.9) +29.8 pp 1,030
17 Track rod end A steering ball joint worn to the extent there is a serious risk of detachment 1.0% (95% CI 0.9–1.2) +13.0 pp 22,161
18 Operation Power steering inoperative 0.98% (95% CI 0.6–1.5) +27.3 pp 1,836
19 Steering rack A steering linkage component with relative movement between components which should be fixed 0.84% (95% CI 0.4–2.0) +13.2 pp 595
20 Universal joint has slight wear or play 0.77% (95% CI 0.5–1.3) +15.3 pp 1,826
21 Prescribed areas The strength or continuity of the load bearing structure within 30cm of any steering component mounting (a 'prescribed area') is so weakened that control of the vehicle is likely to be adversely affected 0.70% (95% CI 0.4–1.4) +32.4 pp 1,143
22 Locking devices Steering linkage retaining or locking device missing or ineffective 0.64% (95% CI 0.4–0.9) +14.2 pp 3,769
23 Steering rack Free play in the steering, measured at the rim of the steering wheel is excessive to the extent that safe steering is affected 0.63% (95% CI 0.3–1.2) +24.1 pp 1,582
24 Relative movement between steering wheel and column indicating looseness 0.51% (95% CI 0.2–1.2) +16.6 pp 974
25 Operation Power steering inoperative and steering adversely affected 0.49% (95% CI 0.3–0.9) +28.7 pp 2,226
26 Steering column Excessive movement of centre of steering wheel up or down 0.44% (95% CI 0.2–1.1) +16.4 pp 901
27 Electronic power steering Electronic power assistance not working 0.41% (95% CI 0.2–1.1) +24.3 pp 967
28 A steering ball joint worn to the extent there is a serious risk of detachment 0.32% (95% CI 0.1–0.8) +16.6 pp 1,251
29 Operation slightly rough 0.29% (95% CI 0.1–0.7) +16.4 pp 1,709
30 Track rod end slightly misaligned 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.4) +13.6 pp 977
31 Pipes and hoses slightly corroded 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.5) +23.0 pp 812
32 Track rod end modified, but not inappropriately 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.5) +14.6 pp 757
33 A steering linkage component with excessive movement between components or likely to become detached 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.5) +18.2 pp 718

Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems

#Certificate wordingFailed againNot-tested gapCars
1 Driver's airbag An airbag obviously inoperative 3.2% (95% CI 2.6–4.0) +14.2 pp 2,532
2 Condition Seat belt not functioning as intended or of an incorrect type 2.9% (95% CI 2.7–3.2) +10.4 pp 23,774
3 Condition Seat belt buckle missing, damaged or not functioning as intended 2.5% (95% CI 2.4–2.7) +9.1 pp 38,700
4 Condition Seat belt retractor not functioning as intended 2.1% (95% CI 1.8–2.3) +10.0 pp 10,878
5 Condition slightly damaged 1.8% (95% CI 1.7–1.8) +0.8 pp 153,642
6 Condition buckle slightly damaged 0.81% (95% CI 0.6–1.2) +10.2 pp 3,575
7 Attachment A seat belt anchorage loose 0.79% (95% CI 0.4–1.4) +16.2 pp 1,267
8 Attachment A seat belt anchorage likely to become detached in the event of a collision 0.62% (95% CI 0.2–1.6) +14.7 pp 650
9 Condition flexible stalk damaged 0.51% (95% CI 0.2–1.2) +11.6 pp 976
10 Condition webbing slightly damaged or frayed 0% (95% CI 0.0–0.0) +9.7 pp 8,781

Exhaust, Fuel and Emissions

#Certificate wordingFailed againNot-tested gapCars
1 Exhaust system has a minor leak of exhaust gases 3.7% (95% CI 3.7–3.8) +14.4 pp 241,756

Seat Belts and Supplementary Restraint Systems

#Certificate wordingFailed againNot-tested gapCars
1 SRS Malfunction Indicator Lamp warning lamp does not illuminate 11.4% (95% CI 11.2–11.5) +14.0 pp 130,095
2 Prescribed areas prescribed area is corroded but not considered excessive 5.5% (95% CI 5.4–5.7) +29.1 pp 58,367
3 Requirements A statutory seat belt missing 2.0% (95% CI 1.6–2.4) +15.2 pp 5,158

Identification of the vehicle

#Certificate wordingFailed againNot-tested gapCars
1 Registration plates Number plate does not conform to the specified requirements 4.1% (95% CI 3.9–4.3) +4.7 pp 40,838
2 Registration plates Number plate showing an incorrect registration 1.3% (95% CI 0.9–1.9) +4.6 pp 2,226
3 Registration plates deteriorated but not likely to be misread 0.75% (95% CI 0.7–0.8) +12.4 pp 37,629
4 Registration plates Number plate missing or so insecure that it is likely to fall off 0.66% (95% CI 0.5–1.0) +17.1 pp 4,099
5 Registration plates insecure but not likely to fall off 0.56% (95% CI 0.4–0.8) +12.1 pp 7,468
6 Registration plates Number plate inscription missing or illegible 0.27% (95% CI 0.1–0.7) +13.0 pp 1,456

Road Wheels

#Certificate wordingFailed againNot-tested gapCars
1 Condition fractured at bridge over valve 4.7% (95% CI 4.4–5.1) +0.7 pp 15,489
2 Attachment A wheel with a loose or missing wheel nut, bolt or stud 2.1% (95% CI 2.0–2.2) +11.4 pp 68,581
3 Condition Any fracture or welding defect on a wheel 1.9% (95% CI 1.3–2.9) +2.9 pp 1,234
4 Spare wheel condition A spare wheel insecure in carrier 1.2% (95% CI 0.7–2.1) +12.7 pp 1,065
5 A spare wheel carrier fractured or insecure 0.58% (95% CI 0.3–1.1) +18.8 pp 1,378
6 Condition A wheel distorted or worn to the extent the wheel or tyre is likely to become detached 0.42% (95% CI 0.1–1.2) +15.9 pp 719
7 Attachment A wheel with more than one loose or missing wheel nut, bolt or stud 0.34% (95% CI 0.2–0.6) +15.0 pp 4,642
8 Condition a wheel and its fixings not compatible 0.17% (95% CI 0.0–1.0) +17.8 pp 589

Lamps, Reflectors and Electrical Equipment

#Certificate wordingFailed againNot-tested gapCars
1 Side repeaters slightly discoloured 1.2% (95% CI 1.1–1.4) +14.8 pp 14,173
2 All position lamps slightly affected by the operation of another lamp 0.55% (95% CI 0.2–1.3) +16.6 pp 902

Speedometer and speed limiter

#Certificate wordingFailed againNot-tested gapCars
1 Speedometer not illuminated 2.5% (95% CI 1.5–4.3) +19.2 pp 517
2 Speedometer not working 1.2% (95% CI 0.7–2.2) +24.0 pp 882

Methodology as set out above and on the methodology page. Source: DVSA Anonymised MOT tests and results, 2024 and 2025 extracts (Class 4). Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. Figures computed 2026-08-16T14:43:49Z.