Why MOT failure rates matter more than ever in 2025?
As we step deeper into 2025, the used car market continues to grow — but so do concerns about hidden repair costs. With MOT failure rates averaging 35% across the UK, understanding which cars consistently pass their MOTs is key to avoiding surprises.
A high MOT pass rate doesn’t just mean fewer repairs — it signals reliability, responsible ownership, and better resale value. This list of top used cars with low MOT failure rate from 2016–2024 includes petrol, diesel, hybrid, and electric models with the lowest failure rates in real MOT tests.
How this list was created
To build this list, we analysed thousands of MOT test records for UK vehicles registered between 2016 and 2024. The data comes from a combination of:
- Official DVSA MOT test records.
- Aggregated vehicle history reports available via CarAnalytics.co.uk
- Industry sources tracking real-world reliability trends and ownership habits.
This multi-source approach helps ensure a balance between raw MOT statistics and how cars actually perform over time.
What we excluded (and why)
We’ve focused this list on mainstream, widely owned used cars — vehicles that are commonly available and reasonably affordable for UK buyers.
Luxury vehicles, such as the BMW i3 or Tesla Model S, along with low-volume imports or niche models, were excluded due to:
- Limited MOT data samples.
- Ownership patterns that don’t reflect average UK use.
- High variance in maintenance costs and servicing networks.
Our aim is to offer buyers practical, everyday recommendations based on real-world reliability — not just brand prestige.
Top 10 used cars with low MOT failure rate
1. Toyota Yaris (Petrol/Hybrid)
MOT Pass Rate: 95.4%
Few cars perform as well at MOT time as the Yaris. It’s built with durability in mind, and hybrid models handle emissions tests with ease. With nearly perfect pass rates, the Yaris stands as one of the UK’s most trustworthy small cars — ideal for city and commuter use.
2. Honda Jazz (Petrol)
MOT Pass Rate: 90.4%
The Jazz is famous for its long-term dependability and high-quality engineering. With an MOT pass rate over 90%, it consistently outperforms many rivals in the supermini class. Most MOT issues are minor — like bulb replacements or worn wiper blades — making it a solid second-hand choice.
3. Volkswagen e-Up! (Electric)
MOT Pass Rate: 89%+
As a compact EV, the e-Up! avoids one major MOT risk: emissions testing. That alone gives it an edge. Its clean mechanical design and relatively low wear make it a great performer in MOT results. Minor issues with suspension or washers are the most common advisories.
4. Skoda Citigo (Petrol/Electric)
MOT Pass Rate: 87.9%
Built on Volkswagen Group tech, the Citigo is reliable, cheap to run, and easy to service. Its electric variant — the Citigo-e iV — is gaining attention for similar MOT success. Issues are minimal, often involving lights, washer faults, or suspension joints after high mileage.
5. Hyundai Kona EV (Electric)
MOT Pass Rate: Estimated 87–88%
The Kona Electric has proved itself with a strong record since its UK release. Most MOT tests come back clean, with only the occasional tyre or suspension issue. It benefits from minimal drivetrain wear, adding to its long-term MOT success.
6. Toyota Prius (Hybrid)
MOT Pass Rate: 86%+
Known for its low running costs and hybrid durability, the Prius continues to shine in MOT tests. With emissions kept in check and a smooth drivetrain, it passes with minimal advisories. Lighting and suspension faults are the most common but not serious.
7. Renault Zoe (Electric)
MOT Pass Rate: ~85%
The Zoe is one of the most accessible EVs on the used market and has shown dependable MOT performance. As an EV, it avoids emissions testing. Occasional faults include suspension wear and electrical gremlins, but its overall pass rate is above average.
8. Kia Sportage (Petrol/Hybrid)
MOT Pass Rate: 82.7%
Practical and well-built, the Sportage is one of the best-performing SUVs for MOT success. Owners benefit from affordable maintenance and a dependable warranty history. Most failures are linked to wear items — such as tyres or brake pads — not deeper mechanical problems.
9. Ford Fiesta (Petrol/Diesel)
MOT Pass Rate: 81.5%
A staple on British roads, the Fiesta continues to offer decent reliability. Petrol versions see higher pass rates than diesels, which tend to struggle with emissions failures. Brake-related advisories are the most frequent, especially in higher mileage models.
10. Mazda MX-5 (Petrol)
MOT Pass Rate: 72.7%
Though lower than others on this list, the MX-5 still earns its place thanks to careful ownership. Many are weekend cars, driven gently and stored well. MOT failures, when they occur, tend to be related to tyres or lighting — common across performance cars in this age bracket.
Final verdict
In 2025, choosing a used car with a strong MOT record is one of the smartest ways to save money and avoid frustration.
If reliability is your top concern, models like the Toyota Yaris, Honda Jazz, and VW e-Up! lead the pack with exceptional MOT pass rates. EVs continue to grow in popularity and offer a testing advantage — no emissions check and fewer parts to fail.
Before making a purchase, always run a MOT check from a trusted free vehicle history provider like CarAnalytics. It’s your best defence against hidden costs.
