DVSA Statistics
1989 Alfa Romeo Spider
MOT Pass Rate & Pre-MOT Checklist
Used 1989 Alfa Romeo Spiders usually pass their MOT, but around 1 in 4 still fail, most often for a wheel bearing with excessive play, a lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning and fluid leaking excessively and likely to harm the environment or to pose a safety risk to other road users. Based on 96 MOT tests from DVSA data, this page shows how this model performs and what to check before your test.
Pass Rate
Based on 96 DVSA anonymised MOT tests · About this data
Pass Rate
77.1%
About average
Top Failure Reasons
Common MOT failures for this model
Quick DIY Fix
Windscreen wipers are easy to replace yourself.
Based on DVSA statistics from 96 recorded tests.
Pre-MOT Checklist for 1989 Alfa Romeo Spider
Based on common failure points for this model, check these items before your MOT:
- 1
Check windscreen for chips or cracks in the driver view zone (Zone A)
Visibility – Common fail on this model
- 2
Visually inspect coil springs for cracks or broken coils
Suspension – Common fail on this model
How Does This Compare to Other Years?
Previous Year
1988 Alfa Romeo Spider
Based on 35 UK MOT tests
Next Year
1990 Alfa Romeo Spider
Based on 105 UK MOT tests
Compare how MOT performance varies across Alfa Romeo Spider model years.
Why Trust This Data?
Official UK Government Source
This data comes from the UK's Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), the official body responsible for MOT testing standards. The anonymised MOT test data is published via data.gov.uk.
Understanding the Statistics
This page is based on 96 MOT tests from the 2023 DVSA dataset. Your 1989 Alfa Romeo Spider was 34 years old when this data was collected and is now 37 years old.
Sample Size
Moderate confidence - 96 tests (interpret with caution)
Limitations
Statistics reflect average outcomes and don't account for maintenance history, mileage, or regional variations. Individual results will vary based on how well a vehicle has been maintained.
Do you own this car?
Check your specific vehicle for outstanding advisories or recalls. Get a personalized risk report for your exact Alfa Romeo Spider.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 1989 Alfa Romeo Spider likely to fail its MOT?
Based on DVSA statistics, the 1989 Alfa Romeo Spider has a 77.1% MOT pass rate. This is above average, indicating good reliability for a vehicle of this age.
What are the most common MOT failures on a 1989 Alfa Romeo Spider?
The most common MOT failure reasons for a 1989 Alfa Romeo Spider are: a wheel bearing with excessive play, a lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning, fluid leaking excessively and likely to harm the environment or to pose a safety risk to other road users. Many of these can be checked and fixed before your test to improve your chances of passing.
How can I reduce the chance my 1989 Alfa Romeo Spider fails its MOT?
To improve your chances of passing, check the items that commonly fail on this model: a wheel bearing with excessive play, a lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning, fluid leaking excessively and likely to harm the environment or to pose a safety risk to other road users. Use our pre-MOT checklist above to identify potential issues before your test. Many common failures are easy DIY fixes.
How many 1989 Alfa Romeo Spiders fail their MOT?
Around 23% of 1989 Alfa Romeo Spiders fail their MOT test, meaning roughly 1 in 4 don't pass first time. The most common reasons are a wheel bearing with excessive play and a lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning. Pre-checking these items can significantly improve your chances.
What should I check before my 1989 Alfa Romeo Spider MOT?
Before your 1989 Alfa Romeo Spider MOT, check these commonly-failed items: a wheel bearing with excessive play, a lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning, fluid leaking excessively and likely to harm the environment or to pose a safety risk to other road users. Most are visual checks you can do at home – look for worn tyres, test all lights work, and check for obvious damage or leaks.
Is the 1989 Alfa Romeo Spider reliable for MOT?
With a 77.1% MOT pass rate, the 1989 Alfa Romeo Spider performs above average compared to typical vehicles. This suggests good overall condition for a vehicle of this age.