1971 Bsa Ariel 3 MOT Pass Rate
Pass rate for Ariel 3 models manufactured in 1971, based on 35 real MOT test results.
Data from official DVSA MOT testing records
1971 Bsa Ariel 3 MOT Analysis
The 1971 Bsa Ariel 3 has an MOT pass rate of 82.9% based on 35 tests — well above the UK average for UK vehicles. Cars of this vintage present for MOT with an average of 0 miles on the odometer. With a 17.1% failure rate, the 1971 Ariel 3 is rated as "Excellent" for MOT reliability.
The leading cause of MOT failure for the 1971 Bsa Ariel 3 is Motorcycle brakes, responsible for 2.9% of failures. Brake-related failures include worn brake pads, corroded brake discs, leaking brake lines, and faulty brake servos. These are safety-critical components — any brake deficiency will result in an MOT fail. Typical repair costs range from £150–400. Motorcycle lighting and signalling is the second most common issue at 2.9%.
Top failures specific to 1971 models only. The overall Ariel 3 page may show different rankings.
What Fails Most
What Fails on This Car?
Click a category to see specific failure items.
View as table
| Rank | Failure Category | Rate (%) | Count |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Motorcycle Brakes | 2.9% | 1 |
| 2 | Motorcycle Lighting And Signalling | 2.9% | 1 |
Mileage Statistics
About This Data
The 1971 Bsa Ariel 3 has an MOT pass rate of 82.9% based on 35 tests — well above the UK average for UK vehicles. Cars of this vintage present for MOT with an average of 0 miles on the odometer. With a 17.1% failure rate, the 1971 Ariel 3 is rated as "Excellent" for MOT reliability.
If you own or are considering buying a 1971 Bsa Ariel 3, you can expect reliable MOT performance overall. Before your MOT, pay particular attention to motorcycle brakes: Listen for squealing or grinding noises. Check brake pedal feel — if it feels spongy or goes to the floor, have the system inspected immediately. Look at brake pad thickness through the wheel spokes (minimum 3mm). With relatively low average mileage of 0 miles, many of these vehicles are still in good mechanical condition.
Motorcycle brakes — 2.9% of failures
Motorcycle brakes issues account for 2.9% of MOT failures on 1971 Bsa Ariel 3 models. Brake-related failures include worn brake pads, corroded brake discs, leaking brake lines, and faulty brake servos. These are safety-critical components — any brake deficiency will result in an MOT fail. Typical repair costs: £150–400. Pre-MOT check: Listen for squealing or grinding noises. Check brake pedal feel — if it feels spongy or goes to the floor, have the system inspected immediately. Look at brake pad thickness through the wheel spokes (minimum 3mm).
Motorcycle lighting and signalling — 2.9% of failures
Motorcycle lighting and signalling issues account for 2.9% of MOT failures on 1971 Bsa Ariel 3 models. Motorcycle lighting and signalling issues are a common cause of MOT failure. Regular inspection and maintenance of these components helps ensure your vehicle passes its MOT. Typical repair costs: £100–400. Pre-MOT check: Have this system checked during regular servicing. Look for warning signs like unusual noises, vibrations, or dashboard warning lights.
Based on DVSA anonymised MOT test data (2005–2024). Crown copyright, Open Government Licence v3.0.