According to a recent study, an incredible 580,000 cars less than three years on UK roads would likely fail an MOT due to potentially dangerous faults.

The Sun reports that an analysis of Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency data by MOT and service comparison website BookMyGarage.com revealed that 13 per cent of three-year-old cars would fail their first MOTs.

This equates to 280,000 cars in 2021, and official statistics show that a further 300,000 cars aged one and two years old would also fail their MOTs, even though they are not old enough to legally require it.

The figures show nearly seven per cent of one-year-old cars and nine per cent of two-year-old cars failed the test last year.

While it is not legally required, care may still be subject to scrutiny before they reach three years old, as is the case with taxis or used car dealers selling vehicles with 12 months MOT for peace of mind for the buyer.

Throughout 2020, 21,000 one-year-old cars were sent for an MOT and 62,000 two-year-old cars were tested.

Unsurprisingly, the failures rate of cars increases with age, and 40 per cent of 12-year-old cars didn’t meet the minimum safety standards in 2020. Cars ages 16-years-old had the highest failure rate at almost 47 per cent, but oddly, cars older than this had a marginally lower failure rate.

For instance, 44 per cent of 20-year-old cars failed the test – the slightly lower rate likely explained by a few models reaching ‘classic’ status at this age and being more cherished by owners.

BookMyGarage.com marketing chief Jessica Potts said: “Many drivers assume that young vehicles will be safe to drive and immune from defects. However, three years is plenty of time for a car to develop a potentially dangerous fault.

“It’s extremely common for tyres, brakes, suspension parts, light bulbs, windscreens and other components to require replacement within this time frame.

“So it’s crucial that drivers regularly inspect and maintain their car in accordance with the manufacturer’s service schedule, regardless of age, to ensure it’s always safe to drive and to avoid risking fines and penalty points.”

Further research from Euro Car Parts has shown that Dundee and Kirkcaldy in Scotland have the lowest pass rates in the UK.

The firm’s analysis of figures from the Department of Transport revealed that only 70 per cent of all cars passed their MOT in both postcode areas, compared to Nottingham, which had the highest at 87 per cent.

Euro Car Parts spokeswoman Helen Robinson said: “After a unique year for MOTs due to the Government’s extension in 2020, it’s very interesting to see the postcodes where cars are most likely to pass and fail.

“For cars within the postcodes seeing the highest fail rates, perhaps the data will urge drivers to double and triple-check their cars, and ensure they are 100 per cent roadworthy before sending them for their MOT.”

 

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