DVSA Statistics
1981 Land Rover 88
MOT Pass Rate & Pre-MOT Checklist
Used 1981 Land Rover 88s usually pass their MOT, but around 1 in 5 still fail, most often for fluid leaking excessively and likely to harm the environment or to pose a safety risk to other road users, 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 and vehicle structure corroded to the extent that the rigidity of the assembly is seriously reduced. Based on 99 MOT tests from DVSA data, this page shows how this model performs and what to check before your test.
Pass Rate
Based on 99 DVSA anonymised MOT tests · About this data
Pass Rate
79.8%
About average
Top Failure Reasons
Common MOT failures for this model
Quick DIY Fix
Indicator bulbs are quick and cheap to replace.
Based on DVSA statistics from 99 recorded tests.
Pre-MOT Checklist for 1981 Land Rover 88
Based on common failure points for this model, check these items before your MOT:
- 1
Listen for knocks or clunks when driving over bumps - bounce each corner
Suspension – Common fail on this model
- 2
Test all indicators flash at the correct rate - check front, rear, and side repeaters
Lighting – Common fail on this model
Do you own this car?
Check your specific vehicle for outstanding advisories or recalls. Get a personalized risk report for your exact Land Rover 88.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 1981 Land Rover 88 likely to fail its MOT?
Based on DVSA statistics, the 1981 Land Rover 88 has a 79.8% 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 1981 Land Rover 88?
The most common MOT failure reasons for a 1981 Land Rover 88 are: fluid leaking excessively and likely to harm the environment or to pose a safety risk to other road users, 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, vehicle structure corroded to the extent that the rigidity of the assembly is seriously reduced. Many of these can be checked and fixed before your test to improve your chances of passing.
How can I reduce the chance my 1981 Land Rover 88 fails its MOT?
To improve your chances of passing, check the items that commonly fail on this model: fluid leaking excessively and likely to harm the environment or to pose a safety risk to other road users, 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, vehicle structure corroded to the extent that the rigidity of the assembly is seriously reduced. Use our pre-MOT checklist above to identify potential issues before your test. Many common failures are easy DIY fixes.
How many 1981 Land Rover 88s fail their MOT?
Around 20% of 1981 Land Rover 88s fail their MOT test, meaning roughly 1 in 5 don't pass first time. The most common reasons are fluid leaking excessively and likely to harm the environment or to pose a safety risk to other road users and 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. Pre-checking these items can significantly improve your chances.
What should I check before my 1981 Land Rover 88 MOT?
Before your 1981 Land Rover 88 MOT, check these commonly-failed items: fluid leaking excessively and likely to harm the environment or to pose a safety risk to other road users, 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, vehicle structure corroded to the extent that the rigidity of the assembly is seriously reduced. 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 1981 Land Rover 88 reliable for MOT?
With a 79.8% MOT pass rate, the 1981 Land Rover 88 performs above average compared to typical vehicles. This suggests good overall condition for a vehicle of this age.