DVSA Statistics
1989 Honda City
MOT Pass Rate & Pre-MOT Checklist
There isn't much MOT data yet for the 1989 Honda City (only 2 tests in our DVSA dataset), so these figures are a rough guide. We still highlight common failure items below so you can check before your MOT.
Pass Rate
Based on 2 DVSA anonymised MOT tests · About this data
Pass Rate
50%
Lower than average
Limited data available for this model; results may be less representative.
Top Failure Reasons
Common MOT failures for this model
Based on DVSA statistics from 2 recorded tests.
Pre-MOT Checklist for 1989 Honda City
Based on common failure points for this model, check these items before your MOT:
- 1
Test front and rear fog lights work - check warning light on dashboard
Lighting – Common fail on this model
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 2 MOT tests from the 2023 DVSA dataset. Your 1989 Honda City was 34 years old when this data was collected and is now 37 years old.
Sample Size
Limited data - 2 tests (use as rough guide only)
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 Honda City.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 1989 Honda City likely to fail its MOT?
Based on DVSA statistics, the 1989 Honda City has a 50% MOT pass rate. This is below average, so extra pre-MOT checks are recommended.
What are the most common MOT failures on a 1989 Honda City?
The most common MOT failure reasons for a 1989 Honda City are: a lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning, a rear registration plate lamp or light source missing or inoperative in the case of a single lamp or all lamps, an obligatory rear fog lamp missing, or a front or rear fog lamp inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning. 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 Honda City fails its MOT?
To improve your chances of passing, check the items that commonly fail on this model: a lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning, a rear registration plate lamp or light source missing or inoperative in the case of a single lamp or all lamps, an obligatory rear fog lamp missing, or a front or rear fog lamp inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning. Use our pre-MOT checklist above to identify potential issues before your test. Many common failures are easy DIY fixes.
How many 1989 Honda Citys fail their MOT?
Around 50% of 1989 Honda Citys fail their MOT test, meaning roughly 1 in 2 don't pass first time. The most common reasons are a lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning and a rear registration plate lamp or light source missing or inoperative in the case of a single lamp or all lamps. Pre-checking these items can significantly improve your chances.
What should I check before my 1989 Honda City MOT?
Before your 1989 Honda City MOT, check these commonly-failed items: a lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning, a rear registration plate lamp or light source missing or inoperative in the case of a single lamp or all lamps, an obligatory rear fog lamp missing, or a front or rear fog lamp inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning. 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 Honda City reliable for MOT?
With a 50% MOT pass rate, the 1989 Honda City performs below average compared to typical vehicles. Extra attention to pre-MOT checks is recommended for this model.