DVSA Statistics
1989 Land Rover Defender
MOT Pass Rate & Pre-MOT Checklist
Used 1989 Land Rover Defenders usually pass their MOT, but around 1 in 4 still fail, most often for fluid leaking excessively and likely to harm the environment or to pose a safety risk to other road users, a suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn and a tyre seriously damaged. Based on 2,422 MOT tests from DVSA data, this page shows how this model performs and what to check before your test.
Pass Rate
Based on 2,422 DVSA anonymised MOT tests · About this data
Pass Rate
76.3%
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 2,422 recorded tests.
Pre-MOT Checklist for 1989 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
- 3
Test brakes for effectiveness, pull, and unusual noises when driving
Brakes – Common fail on this model
How Does This Compare to Other Years?
Previous Year
1988 Land Rover Defender
Based on 1,864 UK MOT tests
Next Year
1990 Land Rover Defender
Based on 2,126 UK MOT tests
The 1989 model shows improvement over 1988 but the 1990 model has an even better pass rate.
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 2,422 MOT tests from the 2023 DVSA dataset. Your 1989 Land Rover Defender was 34 years old when this data was collected and is now 37 years old.
Sample Size
High confidence - 2,422 tests (statistically reliable)
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 Land Rover Defender.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 1989 Land Rover Defender likely to fail its MOT?
Based on DVSA statistics, the 1989 Land Rover Defender has a 76.3% 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 Land Rover Defender?
The most common MOT failure reasons for a 1989 Land Rover Defender are: fluid leaking excessively and likely to harm the environment or to pose a safety risk to other road users, a suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn, a tyre seriously damaged. 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 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, a suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn, a tyre seriously damaged. Use our pre-MOT checklist above to identify potential issues before your test. Many common failures are easy DIY fixes.
How many 1989 Land Rover Defenders fail their MOT?
Around 24% of 1989 Land Rover Defenders fail their MOT test, meaning roughly 1 in 4 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 a suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn. Pre-checking these items can significantly improve your chances.
What should I check before my 1989 Land Rover Defender MOT?
Before your 1989 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, a suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn, a tyre seriously damaged. 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 Land Rover Defender reliable for MOT?
With a 76.3% MOT pass rate, the 1989 Land Rover Defender performs above average compared to typical vehicles. This suggests good overall condition for a vehicle of this age.