DVSA Statistics
1979 Volkswagen Motor Caravan
MOT Pass Rate & Pre-MOT Checklist
Used 1979 Volkswagen Motor Caravans usually pass their MOT, but around 1 in 3 still fail, most often for a wheel bearing with excessive play, a suspension joint dust cover missing or no longer prevents the ingress of dirt etc and windscreen washers not working or not providing sufficient fluid to clear the windscreen. Based on 66 MOT tests from DVSA data, this page shows how this model performs and what to check before your test.
Pass Rate
Based on 66 DVSA anonymised MOT tests · About this data
Pass Rate
69.7%
About average
Top Failure Reasons
Common MOT failures for this model
Quick DIY Fix
Windscreen wipers are easy to replace yourself.
Based on DVSA statistics from 66 recorded tests.
Pre-MOT Checklist for 1979 Volkswagen Motor Caravan
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 windscreen for chips or cracks in the driver view zone (Zone A)
Visibility – Common fail on this model
- 3
Ensure engine is at operating temperature before test - take a good run beforehand
Emissions – Common fail on this model
- 4
Test all headlights work and aim is correct - check for condensation inside
Lighting – Common fail on this model
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 1979 Volkswagen Motor Caravan likely to fail its MOT?
Based on DVSA statistics, the 1979 Volkswagen Motor Caravan has a 69.7% MOT pass rate. This is about average for vehicles of this age.
What are the most common MOT failures on a 1979 Volkswagen Motor Caravan?
The most common MOT failure reasons for a 1979 Volkswagen Motor Caravan are: a wheel bearing with excessive play, a suspension joint dust cover missing or no longer prevents the ingress of dirt etc, windscreen washers not working or not providing sufficient fluid to clear the windscreen. Many of these can be checked and fixed before your test to improve your chances of passing.
How can I reduce the chance my 1979 Volkswagen Motor Caravan fails its MOT?
To improve your chances of passing, check the items that commonly fail on this model: a wheel bearing with excessive play, a suspension joint dust cover missing or no longer prevents the ingress of dirt etc, windscreen washers not working or not providing sufficient fluid to clear the windscreen. Use our pre-MOT checklist above to identify potential issues before your test. Many common failures are easy DIY fixes.
How many 1979 Volkswagen Motor Caravans fail their MOT?
Around 30% of 1979 Volkswagen Motor Caravans fail their MOT test, meaning roughly 1 in 3 don't pass first time. The most common reasons are a wheel bearing with excessive play and a suspension joint dust cover missing or no longer prevents the ingress of dirt etc. Pre-checking these items can significantly improve your chances.
What should I check before my 1979 Volkswagen Motor Caravan MOT?
Before your 1979 Volkswagen Motor Caravan MOT, check these commonly-failed items: a wheel bearing with excessive play, a suspension joint dust cover missing or no longer prevents the ingress of dirt etc, windscreen washers not working or not providing sufficient fluid to clear the windscreen. 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 1979 Volkswagen Motor Caravan reliable for MOT?
With a 69.7% MOT pass rate, the 1979 Volkswagen Motor Caravan performs about average compared to typical vehicles. This is typical performance for vehicles in this age bracket.