1981 Suzuki Lj 80q MOT Pass Rate
Pass rate for Lj 80q models manufactured in 1981, based on 83 real MOT test results.
Data from official DVSA MOT testing records
1981 Suzuki Lj 80q MOT Analysis
The 1981 Suzuki Lj 80q has an MOT pass rate of 68.7% based on 83 tests — slightly above the UK average for UK vehicles. Cars of this vintage present for MOT with an average of 49,237 miles on the odometer. With a 31.3% failure rate, the 1981 Lj 80q is rated as "Good" for MOT reliability.
The leading cause of MOT failure for the 1981 Suzuki Lj 80q is Steering, responsible for 6.0% of failures. Steering failures include excessive play in the steering wheel, leaking power steering fluid, worn track rod ends, and damaged steering rack. These affect vehicle control and are closely related to suspension wear. Typical repair costs range from £150–600. Brakes is the second most common issue at 1.2%. Body, chassis, structure follows at 1.2%.
Top failures specific to 1981 models only. The overall Lj 80q 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 | Steering | 6.0% | 5 |
| 2 | Brakes | 1.2% | 1 |
| 3 | Body, Chassis, Structure | 1.2% | 1 |
Failures per 10,000 Miles
avg. 49,237 miFor every 10,000 miles driven, this shows what percentage of MOT tests fail for each category. This accounts for how far cars are actually driven, not just raw pass/fail counts.
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| Category | Rate / 10K mi | Raw % | Count |
|---|---|---|---|
| Steering | 1.22 | 6.0% | 5 |
| Brakes | 0.24 | 1.2% | 1 |
| Body & Structure | 0.24 | 1.2% | 1 |
Mileage Statistics
Mileage-adjusted failure rate — accounts for how much this model year is typically driven.
About This Data
The 1981 Suzuki Lj 80q has an MOT pass rate of 68.7% based on 83 tests — slightly above the UK average for UK vehicles. Cars of this vintage present for MOT with an average of 49,237 miles on the odometer. With a 31.3% failure rate, the 1981 Lj 80q is rated as "Good" for MOT reliability.
If you own or are considering buying a 1981 Suzuki Lj 80q, you can expect reliable MOT performance overall. Before your MOT, pay particular attention to steering: Check for excessive steering wheel play (more than a few inches of free movement). Listen for whining from the power steering pump. Look for fluid leaks under the car near the front wheels. With relatively low average mileage of 49,237 miles, many of these vehicles are still in good mechanical condition.
Steering — 6.0% of failures
Steering issues account for 6.0% of MOT failures on 1981 Suzuki Lj 80q models. Steering failures include excessive play in the steering wheel, leaking power steering fluid, worn track rod ends, and damaged steering rack. These affect vehicle control and are closely related to suspension wear. Typical repair costs: £150–600. Pre-MOT check: Check for excessive steering wheel play (more than a few inches of free movement). Listen for whining from the power steering pump. Look for fluid leaks under the car near the front wheels.
Brakes — 1.2% of failures
Brakes issues account for 1.2% of MOT failures on 1981 Suzuki Lj 80q 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).
Body, chassis, structure — 1.2% of failures
Body, chassis, structure issues account for 1.2% of MOT failures on 1981 Suzuki Lj 80q models. Body and structure failures include excessive corrosion, sharp edges, loose panels, and damage to the vehicle frame. Rust is the primary concern, especially on older vehicles or those exposed to road salt. Typical repair costs: £100–500+. Pre-MOT check: Inspect sills, wheel arches, door bottoms, and the chassis for rust. Surface rust is acceptable but structural corrosion or holes will fail. Check that all doors, bonnet, and boot close securely.
Based on DVSA anonymised MOT test data (2005–2024). Crown copyright, Open Government Licence v3.0.