DVSA Statistics
1988 Volvo 300 Series
MOT Pass Rate & Pre-MOT Checklist
Used 1988 Volvo 300 Seriess usually pass their MOT, but around 1 in 6 still fail, most often for 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., fluid leaking excessively and likely to harm the environment or to pose a safety risk to other road users and brake pipe damaged or excessively corroded. Based on 64 MOT tests from DVSA data, this page shows how this model performs and what to check before your test.
Pass Rate
Based on 64 DVSA anonymised MOT tests · About this data
Pass Rate
82.8%
Higher than average
Top Failure Reasons
Common MOT failures for this model
Parts Available
Brakes are a common wear item.
Based on DVSA statistics from 64 recorded tests.
Pre-MOT Checklist for 1988 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
Ensure engine is at operating temperature before test - take a good run beforehand
Emissions – Common fail on this model
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is a 1988 Volvo 300 Series likely to fail its MOT?
Based on DVSA statistics, the 1988 Volvo 300 Series has a 82.8% 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 1988 Volvo 300 Series?
The most common MOT failure reasons for a 1988 Volvo 300 Series are: 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., fluid leaking excessively and likely to harm the environment or to pose a safety risk to other road users, brake pipe damaged or excessively corroded. Many of these can be checked and fixed before your test to improve your chances of passing.
How can I reduce the chance my 1988 Volvo 300 Series fails its MOT?
To improve your chances of passing, check the items that commonly fail on this model: 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., fluid leaking excessively and likely to harm the environment or to pose a safety risk to other road users, brake pipe damaged or excessively corroded. Use our pre-MOT checklist above to identify potential issues before your test. Many common failures are easy DIY fixes.
How many 1988 Volvo 300 Seriess fail their MOT?
Around 17% of 1988 Volvo 300 Seriess fail their MOT test, meaning roughly 1 in 6 don't pass first time. The most common reasons are 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. and fluid leaking excessively and likely to harm the environment or to pose a safety risk to other road users. Pre-checking these items can significantly improve your chances.
What should I check before my 1988 Volvo 300 Series MOT?
Before your 1988 Volvo 300 Series MOT, check these commonly-failed items: 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., fluid leaking excessively and likely to harm the environment or to pose a safety risk to other road users, brake pipe damaged or excessively corroded. 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 1988 Volvo 300 Series reliable for MOT?
With a 82.8% MOT pass rate, the 1988 Volvo 300 Series performs above average compared to typical vehicles. This suggests good overall condition for a vehicle of this age.