Obscure MOT fails revealed in new data

Motorists across the UK are failing their MOTs for a surprising mix of obscure and avoidable reasons, according to new research by eBay, the UK’s largest online marketplace for vehicle parts and accessories.

Data analysed from a Freedom of Information request to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) revealed that while suspension issues were the most common reason for MOT failures between 1 June 2024 and 30 June 2025, some drivers were penalised for extreme mechanical oversights.

Among the more unusual findings, 394 vehicles failed due to a missing suspension spring, 20 were recorded with a missing suspension arm, and 14 were cited for lacking an entire MacPherson strut – all vital suspension components.

Other failures were more visible. The analysis identified 61 vehicles with mismatched headlights and 3,485 that lacked a wiper blade – simple issues that could be resolved quickly and inexpensively.

Abir Tewari, UK Director of Commercial Operations, Parts & Accessories at eBay, said: “Too many motorists are failing MOTs for avoidable reasons – from worn tyres to something as basic as a missing wiper blade. These are quick and inexpensive to fix, and with eBay’s My Garage, drivers can be confident they’ll get the right part the first time.”

Tyre-related faults were the single largest cause of failure overall, with more than 1,081,000 vehicles falling short due to tread depths below the legal minimum of 1.6mm. Suspension issues, including fractured springs, accounted for more than 821,000 failures, followed by brake pads worn below 1.5mm, impacting 768,000 vehicles.

The research also highlighted less common tyre issues. Eight vehicles failed due to tyres with inadequate speed ratings, while 414 were marked down for having different-sized tyres fitted on the same axle – a risk that can compromise performance and safety.

Further safety-critical concerns included 265 failures due to brake performance causing the vehicle to pull to one side, and 516 failures where seatbelt webbing had been cut or reworked, potentially undermining restraint in the event of a collision.

To help drivers prepare, eBay is currently offering 20% off selected MOT parts until 31 October. Its Assured Fit guarantee provides added reassurance, allowing customers to return items that don’t fit their vehicle for free.