DVSA Statistics
1982 Ford Escort
MOT Pass Rate & Pre-MOT Checklist
Used 1982 Ford Escorts usually pass their MOT, but around 9% still fail, most often for steering rack gaiter or ball joint dust cover missing or no longer prevents the ingress of dirt etc, brakes imbalance across an axle such that the braking effort from any wheel is less than 70% of the maximum effort recorded from the other wheel on the same axle. and a position lamp adversely affected by the operation of any other lamp. Based on 71 MOT tests from DVSA data, this page shows how this model performs and what to check before your test.
Pass Rate
Based on 71 DVSA anonymised MOT tests · About this data
Pass Rate
91.5%
Higher than average
Top Failure Reasons
Common MOT failures for this model
Parts Available
Brakes are a common wear item.
Based on DVSA statistics from 71 recorded tests.
Pre-MOT Checklist for 1982 Ford Escort
Based on common failure points for this model, check these items before your MOT:
- 1
Check for excessive play in steering wheel - should be minimal free movement
Steering – Common fail on this model
- 2
Test brakes for effectiveness, pull, and unusual noises when driving
Brakes – Common fail on this model
- 3
Check brake lights illuminate when pedal is pressed - have someone help you check
Lighting – Common fail on this model
How Does This Compare to Other Years?
Previous Year
1981 Ford Escort
Based on 68 UK MOT tests
Next Year
1983 Ford Escort
Based on 252 UK MOT tests
The 1982 model has a lower pass rate than 1981, but performs better than 1983.
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 71 MOT tests from the 2023 DVSA dataset. Your 1982 Ford Escort was 41 years old when this data was collected and is now 44 years old.
Sample Size
Moderate confidence - 71 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 Ford Escort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 1982 Ford Escort likely to fail its MOT?
Based on DVSA statistics, the 1982 Ford Escort has a 91.5% 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 1982 Ford Escort?
The most common MOT failure reasons for a 1982 Ford Escort are: steering rack gaiter or ball joint dust cover missing or no longer prevents the ingress of dirt etc, brakes imbalance across an axle such that the braking effort from any wheel is less than 70% of the maximum effort recorded from the other wheel on the same axle., a position lamp adversely affected by the operation of any other lamp. Many of these can be checked and fixed before your test to improve your chances of passing.
How can I reduce the chance my 1982 Ford Escort fails its MOT?
To improve your chances of passing, check the items that commonly fail on this model: steering rack gaiter or ball joint dust cover missing or no longer prevents the ingress of dirt etc, brakes imbalance across an axle such that the braking effort from any wheel is less than 70% of the maximum effort recorded from the other wheel on the same axle., a position lamp adversely affected by the operation of any other lamp. Use our pre-MOT checklist above to identify potential issues before your test. Many common failures are easy DIY fixes.
How many 1982 Ford Escorts fail their MOT?
Around 9% of 1982 Ford Escorts fail their MOT test, meaning roughly 1 in 11 don't pass first time. The most common reasons are steering rack gaiter or ball joint dust cover missing or no longer prevents the ingress of dirt etc and brakes imbalance across an axle such that the braking effort from any wheel is less than 70% of the maximum effort recorded from the other wheel on the same axle.. Pre-checking these items can significantly improve your chances.
What should I check before my 1982 Ford Escort MOT?
Before your 1982 Ford Escort MOT, check these commonly-failed items: steering rack gaiter or ball joint dust cover missing or no longer prevents the ingress of dirt etc, brakes imbalance across an axle such that the braking effort from any wheel is less than 70% of the maximum effort recorded from the other wheel on the same axle., a position lamp adversely affected by the operation of any other lamp. 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 1982 Ford Escort reliable for MOT?
With a 91.5% MOT pass rate, the 1982 Ford Escort performs above average compared to typical vehicles. This suggests good overall condition for a vehicle of this age.