Car most likely to pass an MOT in the UK

The car most likely to pass its MOT has been revealed according to new research.

In the UK alone, research has suggested motorists spend over £270 on average each year for car-related repairs and services, with some car faults being more common than others. Motoring experts at Bill Plant Driving School have carried out research to reveal which car models have the best MOT pass rate in the UK, as well as the country’s most common car faults by analysing Google search data from 2018-2022.

They said: "Picking out your first car is a very exciting and pivotal moment in your driving journey. You’ve finished your driving lessons and just got your pristine shiny full licence, and now you want the car to help you exercise your newfound freedom.

"With the sheer number of vehicle choices out there, it can certainly be overwhelming to land on a decision. Well, we at Bill Plant Driving School have studied Department for Transport data to look at which car models have the highest MOT pass rates.

"We’ve also looked at which car faults are the most common, to give you a better idea of which models are the best choice for your first car."

The cars most likely to pass its MOT, according to Bill Plant Driving School

Peugeot 108

With an MOT pass rate of 85.90%, and 46,986 tests passed out of 54,700, it’s no surprise that the Peugeot 108 takes first place, being frequently known as a ‘good first car’ for new drivers. Some of the safety features include six airbags, anti-lock brakes and also electronic stability control, and the lack of recurring problems further prove its reliability. Easily found on the used market, this car is perfect for first-time buyers.

Mini Cooper

The Mini Cooper falls into second place, with 96,998 MOT tests passed out of 114,467, managing an astonishing pass rate of 84.73% in 2020 alone. The six airbags, passenger airbag deactivation switch and systems for grip and stability are just a few of the reasons why this car passes so many MOT’s, and it can also be easily found on the used market for a reasonable price. Research shows that the newer models of the car are of much better quality, so it’s best to find one from 2014 onwards.

Skoda Citigo

In third place is the Skoda Citigo, with 35,240 MOT tests passed out of 41,978. Skoda, owned by Volkswagen, is renowned for its quality, reliability and low running and servicing costs; the Citigo has seatbelt warning lights for front and rear seats and also a lane support system to prevent drifting, which intervenes in necessary situations. In 2017, it was rated as the safest (used) car for new drivers.

The most common faults and repairs according to Bill Plant Driving School

Engine

Out of the top 10 most common faults, measured by number of Google searches, the engine finishes in first place, with 567,030 searches between June 2018 and May 2022. The research details that the engine is mostly affected by damaged spark plugs, inadequate lubrication or a failing oil pump, which can in most cases be fixed for a reasonable price.

Brakes

Faults regarding the brakes come in second place, with 144,790 Google searches. Many factors come into play for the brakes to be in working order, such as the brake discs, callipers and cylinders or sufficient brake fluid levels – regular checks can often prevent any serious problems from occurring.

Seatbelt

In third place is the seatbelt, with 104,750 Google searches. Not only can a faulty seatbelt be the reason you fail your MOT, but it can also be the difference between a minor and a severe injury. Whether it be a problem with the seatbelt itself or even the buckle, it’s crucial to repair it as quick as possible.

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