DVSA Statistics
1997 Land Rover Defender
MOT Pass Rate & Pre-MOT Checklist
Used 1997 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 wheel bearing with excessive play and brake pipe damaged or excessively corroded. Based on 4,536 MOT tests from DVSA data, this page shows how this model performs and what to check before your test.
Pass Rate
Based on 4,536 DVSA anonymised MOT tests · About this data
Pass Rate
74.7%
About average
Top Failure Reasons
Common MOT failures for this model
Parts Available
Brakes are a common wear item.
Based on DVSA statistics from 4,536 recorded tests.
Pre-MOT Checklist for 1997 Land Rover Defender
Based on common failure points for this model, check these items before your MOT:
- 1
Test brakes for effectiveness, pull, and unusual noises when driving
Brakes – Common fail on this model
- 2
Push down on each corner and release - car should bounce once only
Suspension – Common fail on this model
How Does This Compare to Other Years?
Previous Year
1996 Land Rover Defender
Based on 4,604 UK MOT tests
Next Year
1998 Land Rover Defender
Based on 4,620 UK MOT tests
Compare how MOT performance varies across Land Rover Defender model years.
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 4,536 MOT tests from the 2023 DVSA dataset. Your 1997 Land Rover Defender was 26 years old when this data was collected and is now 29 years old.
Sample Size
High confidence - 4,536 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 1997 Land Rover Defender likely to fail its MOT?
Based on DVSA statistics, the 1997 Land Rover Defender has a 74.7% MOT pass rate. This is about average for vehicles of this age.
What are the most common MOT failures on a 1997 Land Rover Defender?
The most common MOT failure reasons for a 1997 Land Rover Defender are: fluid leaking excessively and likely to harm the environment or to pose a safety risk to other road users, a wheel bearing with excessive play, brake pipe damaged or excessively corroded. Many of these can be checked and fixed before your test to improve your chances of passing.
How can I reduce the chance my 1997 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 wheel bearing with excessive play, brake pipe damaged or excessively corroded. Use our pre-MOT checklist above to identify potential issues before your test. Many common failures are easy DIY fixes.
How many 1997 Land Rover Defenders fail their MOT?
Around 25% of 1997 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 wheel bearing with excessive play. Pre-checking these items can significantly improve your chances.
What should I check before my 1997 Land Rover Defender MOT?
Before your 1997 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 wheel bearing with excessive play, brake pipe damaged or excessively corroded. 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 1997 Land Rover Defender reliable for MOT?
With a 74.7% MOT pass rate, the 1997 Land Rover Defender performs about average compared to typical vehicles. This is typical performance for vehicles in this age bracket.