Daihatsu common problems and MOT failures

From 30,676 MOT tests in 2024, 26.5% of Daihatsu vehicles failed. Below are the most common reasons, ranked by how often they occur.

Top Daihatsu MOT failure reasons

#	Problem	Occurrences	% of failures
1	the strength or continuity of the load bearing structure within 30cm of any sub-frame, spring or suspension component mounting (a 'prescribed area') is significantly reduced or inadequately repaired	2,524	24.1%
2	suspension pin, bush or joint worn	2,173	20.7%
3	the aim of a headlamp is not within limits the requirements	833	7.9%
4	vehicle structure corroded to the extent that the rigidity of the assembly is seriously reduced	824	7.9%
5	wiper blade missing or obviously not clearing the windscreen	761	7.3%
6	exhaust system leaking or insecure	750	7.2%
7	the strength or continuity of the load bearing structure within 30cm of any seat belt anchorage (a 'prescribed area') is significantly reduced or inadequately repaired	735	7.0%
8	brake pipe damaged or excessively corroded	732	7.0%
9	body, cab or chassis excessively corroded at a mounting point	594	5.7%
10	lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning	558	5.3%

What this means if you're buying a Daihatsu

The single most common MOT failure for Daihatsu is the strength or continuity of the load bearing structure within 30cm of any sub-frame, spring or suspension component mounting (a 'prescribed area') is significantly reduced or inadequately repaired, accounting for 24% of all failure items. Suspension repairs typically cost £150–£400 depending on the component.

These figures are from real MOT inspections — they show what testers actually find wrong with Daihatsu vehicles. If you're viewing a used Daihatsu, it's worth checking these areas specifically.

Daihatsu models by MOT pass rate

Lowest pass rates first — these models have the most testable issues.

Model	Tests	Pass rate
Sirion	10,361	73.2%

Buying a specific Daihatsu? Check the individual vehicle's MOT history for free on GOV.UK to see its actual test results, advisories, and mileage readings.

Check MOT history on GOV.UK