🛑 Brakes MOT Failures
Brake failures cover discs, pads, drums, pipes, hoses, servo operation, and parking brakes. This is one of the most critical safety categories in the MOT test.
Data from official DVSA MOT testing records
✅ Best 20 — Lowest Brakes Failure Rate
These models have the lowest brakes failure rate in MOT testing. Great choices if you want to avoid brakes problems.
| # | Make | Model | Failure Rate | Total Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Harley-davidson | Fxdf | 0% | 7,526 |
| 2 | BMW | K1200 | 0% | 28,000 |
| 3 | Ferrari | 488 | 0% | 8,529 |
| 4 | BMW | R 1200 Gs 04 | 0% | 15,107 |
| 5 | Mercedes-Benz | Eqa 250 Amg Line | 0% | 5,228 |
| 6 | Honda | Jazz Crosstar Ex I-mmd Cvt | 0% | 10,660 |
| 7 | BMW | R1200c | 0% | 5,032 |
| 8 | Honda | Jazz Ex I-mmd Cvt | 0% | 11,829 |
| 9 | Mini | Cooper S Electric Level 2 | 0% | 7,011 |
| 10 | BMW | K100 | 0% | 13,577 |
| 11 | Yamaha | Fjr | 0% | 5,021 |
| 12 | BMW | R1150gs | 0% | 8,960 |
| 13 | Lamborghini | Huracan | 0% | 6,162 |
| 14 | Triumph | Rocket | 0% | 5,286 |
| 15 | Honda | St1100 | 0% | 39,648 |
| 16 | Mini | Cooper S Electric Level 3 | 0% | 7,952 |
| 17 | BMW | R 1200 Rt | 0% | 8,904 |
| 18 | BMW | X5 Xdrive45e M Sport Auto | 0% | 9,468 |
| 19 | BMW | 330e M Sport Auto | 0% | 13,648 |
| 20 | BMW | K Series | 0% | 35,169 |
❌ Worst 20 — Highest Brakes Failure Rate
These models have the highest brakes failure rate. Consider extra inspection before buying.
| # | Make | Model | Failure Rate | Total Tests |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Vauxhall | Sintra | 93.7% | 8,123 |
| 2 | Ldv | Cub | 89.2% | 20,873 |
| 3 | Mercedes | 308 | 82.5% | 24,157 |
| 4 | Nissan | Vanette | 80.7% | 73,633 |
| 5 | Kia | Pride | 80.1% | 16,102 |
| 6 | Mercedes | 312d Lwb | 78.6% | 7,964 |
| 7 | Ford | Escort Lx | 76.1% | 7,253 |
| 8 | Kia | Shuma | 74.8% | 18,636 |
| 9 | Mitsubishi | Ralliart Fto | 72.2% | 5,963 |
| 10 | Fiat | Brava | 71.9% | 110,514 |
| 11 | Chrysler | Voyager Le | 68% | 7,362 |
| 12 | Nissan | Cabstar E | 67.8% | 18,497 |
| 13 | Rover | 620 | 67.8% | 89,803 |
| 14 | Volvo | 480 | 67% | 8,632 |
| 15 | SEAT | Inca | 66.3% | 29,948 |
| 16 | BMW | 318 I | 66.3% | 9,941 |
| 17 | Iveco | Unclassified | 65.9% | 27,841 |
| 18 | Ford | Cougar | 65.9% | 63,840 |
| 19 | Mazda | 121 | 65.8% | 17,034 |
| 20 | Rover | 618 | 65.6% | 33,746 |
💡 How to Avoid Brakes Failures
- ✓ Replace brake pads before they reach minimum thickness — listen for squealing or grinding noises.
- ✓ Have brake fluid changed every 2 years to prevent moisture build-up and corrosion.
- ✓ Check for leaks around brake pipes and hoses, especially on older vehicles where corrosion is common.
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage of MOT failures are caused by brakes?
Brakes are one of the top 3 MOT failure categories. On average, around 10-15% of all MOT failures involve brake-related issues including worn pads, corroded discs, and leaking pipes.
How much does it cost to fix brake failures before an MOT?
Brake pad replacement typically costs £80-£150 per axle. Disc replacement is £120-£250 per axle. Brake pipe repairs for corrosion can cost £50-£200 depending on complexity.
Can I check my brakes before the MOT myself?
You can visually inspect pad thickness through wheel spokes, check for fluid leaks under the car, and test the pedal feel. However, a professional inspection is recommended for thorough assessment.
Based on DVSA anonymised MOT test data (2005–2024). Crown copyright, Open Government Licence v3.0.