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DVSA Statistics

1974 MG Midget
MOT Pass Rate & Pre-MOT Checklist

Used 1974 MG Midgets usually pass their MOT, but around 1 in 6 still fail, most often for a direction indicator lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning, a lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning and a suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn. Based on 97 MOT tests from DVSA data, this page shows how this model performs and what to check before your test.

84.5%

Pass Rate

Based on 97 DVSA anonymised MOT tests · About this data

Pass Rate

84.5%

Higher than average

Top Failure Reasons

Common MOT failures for this model

Quick DIY Fix

10 minutes fix
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Indicator bulbs are quick and cheap to replace.

Fixes:A direction indicator lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning
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  1. 1

    A direction indicator lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning

    10.3%
  2. 2

    A lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning

    8.6%
  3. 3

    A suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn

    6.9%
  4. 4

    Windscreen washers not working or not providing sufficient fluid to clear the windscreen

    6.9%
  5. 5

    Brakes imbalance across an axle such that the braking effort from any wheel is less than 70% of the maximum effort recorded from the other wheel on the same axle.

    5.2%

Based on DVSA statistics from 97 recorded tests.

Pre-MOT Checklist for 1974 MG Midget

Based on common failure points for this model, check these items before your MOT:

  • 1

    Test all indicators flash at the correct rate - check front, rear, and side repeaters

    Lighting – Common fail on this model

  • 2

    Listen for knocks or clunks when driving over bumps - bounce each corner

    Suspension – Common fail on this model

  • 3

    Check windscreen for chips or cracks in the driver view zone (Zone A)

    Visibility – Common fail on this model

  • 4

    Test brakes for effectiveness, pull, and unusual noises when driving

    Brakes – Common fail on this model

How Does This Compare to Other Years?

The 1974 model has a lower pass rate than 1973, but performs better than 1975.

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 97 MOT tests from the 2023 DVSA dataset. Your 1974 MG Midget was 49 years old when this data was collected and is now 52 years old.

Sample Size

Moderate confidence - 97 tests (interpret with caution)

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 1974 MG Midget likely to fail its MOT?

Based on DVSA statistics, the 1974 MG Midget has a 84.5% 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 1974 MG Midget?

The most common MOT failure reasons for a 1974 MG Midget are: a direction indicator lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning, a lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning, a suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn. Many of these can be checked and fixed before your test to improve your chances of passing.

How can I reduce the chance my 1974 MG Midget fails its MOT?

To improve your chances of passing, check the items that commonly fail on this model: a direction indicator lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning, a lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning, a suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn. Use our pre-MOT checklist above to identify potential issues before your test. Many common failures are easy DIY fixes.

How many 1974 MG Midgets fail their MOT?

Around 16% of 1974 MG Midgets fail their MOT test, meaning roughly 1 in 6 don't pass first time. The most common reasons are a direction indicator lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning and a lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning. Pre-checking these items can significantly improve your chances.

What should I check before my 1974 MG Midget MOT?

Before your 1974 MG Midget MOT, check these commonly-failed items: a direction indicator lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning, a lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning, a suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn. 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 1974 MG Midget reliable for MOT?

With a 84.5% MOT pass rate, the 1974 MG Midget performs above average compared to typical vehicles. This suggests good overall condition for a vehicle of this age.