DVSA Statistics
1987 Volvo 300 Series
MOT Pass Rate & Pre-MOT Checklist
There isn't much MOT data yet for the 1987 Volvo 300 Series (only 30 tests in our DVSA dataset), so these figures are a rough guide. We still highlight common failure items below so you can check before your MOT.
Pass Rate
Based on 30 DVSA anonymised MOT tests · About this data
Pass Rate
73.3%
About average
Limited data available for this model; results may be less representative.
Top Failure Reasons
Common MOT failures for this model
Parts Available
Brakes are a common wear item.
Based on DVSA statistics from 30 recorded tests.
Pre-MOT Checklist for 1987 Volvo 300 Series
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
Check for excessive play in steering wheel - should be minimal free movement
Steering – Common fail on this model
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 1987 Volvo 300 Series likely to fail its MOT?
Based on DVSA statistics, the 1987 Volvo 300 Series has a 73.3% MOT pass rate. This is about average for vehicles of this age.
What are the most common MOT failures on a 1987 Volvo 300 Series?
The most common MOT failure reasons for a 1987 Volvo 300 Series are: braking effort inadequate at a wheel, significant brake effort recorded with no brake applied indicating a binding brake, 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.. Many of these can be checked and fixed before your test to improve your chances of passing.
How can I reduce the chance my 1987 Volvo 300 Series fails its MOT?
To improve your chances of passing, check the items that commonly fail on this model: braking effort inadequate at a wheel, significant brake effort recorded with no brake applied indicating a binding brake, 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.. Use our pre-MOT checklist above to identify potential issues before your test. Many common failures are easy DIY fixes.
How many 1987 Volvo 300 Seriess fail their MOT?
Around 27% of 1987 Volvo 300 Seriess fail their MOT test, meaning roughly 1 in 4 don't pass first time. The most common reasons are braking effort inadequate at a wheel and significant brake effort recorded with no brake applied indicating a binding brake. Pre-checking these items can significantly improve your chances.
What should I check before my 1987 Volvo 300 Series MOT?
Before your 1987 Volvo 300 Series MOT, check these commonly-failed items: braking effort inadequate at a wheel, significant brake effort recorded with no brake applied indicating a binding brake, 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.. 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 1987 Volvo 300 Series reliable for MOT?
With a 73.3% MOT pass rate, the 1987 Volvo 300 Series performs about average compared to typical vehicles. This is typical performance for vehicles in this age bracket.