DVSA Statistics
1998 Morgan Plus 8
MOT Pass Rate & Pre-MOT Checklist
Used 1998 Morgan Plus 8s usually pass their MOT, but around 9% still fail, most often for coolant leak, steering rack gaiter or ball joint dust cover damaged or deteriorated and a shock absorber bush excessively worn. Based on 54 MOT tests from DVSA data, this page shows how this model performs and what to check before your test.
Pass Rate
Based on 54 DVSA anonymised MOT tests · About this data
Pass Rate
90.7%
Higher than average
Top Failure Reasons
Common MOT failures for this model
Based on DVSA statistics from 54 recorded tests.
Pre-MOT Checklist for 1998 Morgan Plus 8
Based on common failure points for this model, check these items before your MOT:
- 1
Check for excessive play in steering wheel - should be minimal free movement
Steering – Common fail on this model
- 2
Push down on each corner and release - car should bounce once only
Suspension – Common fail on this model
- 3
Test front and rear fog lights work - check warning light on dashboard
Lighting – Common fail on this model
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 1998 Morgan Plus 8 likely to fail its MOT?
Based on DVSA statistics, the 1998 Morgan Plus 8 has a 90.7% 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 1998 Morgan Plus 8?
The most common MOT failure reasons for a 1998 Morgan Plus 8 are: coolant leak, steering rack gaiter or ball joint dust cover damaged or deteriorated, a shock absorber bush 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 1998 Morgan Plus 8 fails its MOT?
To improve your chances of passing, check the items that commonly fail on this model: coolant leak, steering rack gaiter or ball joint dust cover damaged or deteriorated, a shock absorber bush excessively worn. Use our pre-MOT checklist above to identify potential issues before your test. Many common failures are easy DIY fixes.
How many 1998 Morgan Plus 8s fail their MOT?
Around 9% of 1998 Morgan Plus 8s fail their MOT test, meaning roughly 1 in 11 don't pass first time. The most common reasons are coolant leak and steering rack gaiter or ball joint dust cover damaged or deteriorated. Pre-checking these items can significantly improve your chances.
What should I check before my 1998 Morgan Plus 8 MOT?
Before your 1998 Morgan Plus 8 MOT, check these commonly-failed items: coolant leak, steering rack gaiter or ball joint dust cover damaged or deteriorated, a shock absorber bush 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 1998 Morgan Plus 8 reliable for MOT?
With a 90.7% MOT pass rate, the 1998 Morgan Plus 8 performs above average compared to typical vehicles. This suggests good overall condition for a vehicle of this age.