DVSA Statistics
1998 Vauxhall Corsa
MOT Pass Rate & Pre-MOT Checklist
Used 1998 Vauxhall Corsas usually pass their MOT, but around 1 in 4 still fail, most often for 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 spring or spring component fractured or seriously weakened and a tyre seriously damaged. Based on 1,217 MOT tests from DVSA data, this page shows how this model performs and what to check before your test.
Pass Rate
Based on 1,217 DVSA anonymised MOT tests · About this data
Pass Rate
75.8%
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 1,217 recorded tests.
Pre-MOT Checklist for 1998 Vauxhall Corsa
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
How Does This Compare to Other Years?
Previous Year
1997 Vauxhall Corsa
Based on 807 UK MOT tests
Next Year
1999 Vauxhall Corsa
Based on 1,633 UK MOT tests
Compare how MOT performance varies across Vauxhall Corsa 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 1,217 MOT tests from the 2023 DVSA dataset. Your 1998 Vauxhall Corsa was 25 years old when this data was collected and is now 28 years old.
Sample Size
High confidence - 1,217 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 Vauxhall Corsa.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 1998 Vauxhall Corsa likely to fail its MOT?
Based on DVSA statistics, the 1998 Vauxhall Corsa has a 75.8% 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 Vauxhall Corsa?
The most common MOT failure reasons for a 1998 Vauxhall Corsa are: 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 spring or spring component fractured or seriously weakened, 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 1998 Vauxhall Corsa fails its MOT?
To improve your chances of passing, check the items that commonly fail on this model: 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 spring or spring component fractured or seriously weakened, 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 1998 Vauxhall Corsas fail their MOT?
Around 24% of 1998 Vauxhall Corsas fail their MOT test, meaning roughly 1 in 4 don't pass first time. The most common reasons are 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 spring or spring component fractured or seriously weakened. Pre-checking these items can significantly improve your chances.
What should I check before my 1998 Vauxhall Corsa MOT?
Before your 1998 Vauxhall Corsa MOT, check these commonly-failed items: 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 spring or spring component fractured or seriously weakened, 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 1998 Vauxhall Corsa reliable for MOT?
With a 75.8% MOT pass rate, the 1998 Vauxhall Corsa performs above average compared to typical vehicles. This suggests good overall condition for a vehicle of this age.