DVSA Statistics
1984 Land Rover Defender
MOT Pass Rate & Pre-MOT Checklist
Used 1984 Land Rover Defenders 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 a wheel bearing with excessive play. Based on 1,002 MOT tests from DVSA data, this page shows how this model performs and what to check before your test.
Pass Rate
Based on 1,002 DVSA anonymised MOT tests · About this data
Pass Rate
78%
About average
Top Failure Reasons
Common MOT failures for this model
Parts Available
Worn tyres are a safety issue and common MOT fail.
Based on DVSA statistics from 1,002 recorded tests.
Pre-MOT Checklist for 1984 Land Rover Defender
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
Check tyre tread depth is at least 1.6mm across the central 3/4 of the tyre
Tyres – Common fail on this model
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 1984 Land Rover Defender likely to fail its MOT?
Based on DVSA statistics, the 1984 Land Rover Defender has a 78% 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 1984 Land Rover Defender?
The most common MOT failure reasons for a 1984 Land Rover Defender 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, a wheel bearing with excessive play. Many of these can be checked and fixed before your test to improve your chances of passing.
How can I reduce the chance my 1984 Land Rover Defender 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, a wheel bearing with excessive play. Use our pre-MOT checklist above to identify potential issues before your test. Many common failures are easy DIY fixes.
How many 1984 Land Rover Defenders fail their MOT?
Around 22% of 1984 Land Rover Defenders 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 1984 Land Rover Defender MOT?
Before your 1984 Land Rover Defender 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, a wheel bearing with excessive play. 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 1984 Land Rover Defender reliable for MOT?
With a 78% MOT pass rate, the 1984 Land Rover Defender performs above average compared to typical vehicles. This suggests good overall condition for a vehicle of this age.