The picture
214: a below-average pass rate worth digging into
Across 931 MOT tests, the 214 returns 69.2% first-time pass — well below the UK fleet average. The single most-logged Major fail is a split CV-joint boot. The strength or continuity of the load bearing and the strength or continuity of the load bearing round out the top three. Average tested mileage sits at 73,966, which is the lens to read those failure rankings through. If you own one and the next test is close, the ranked list below is a sensible pre-test checklist.
Top ten reasons for rejection.
- 01
A transmission shaft constant velocity joint boot severely deteriorated
90 occurrences · 9.7% of tests
- 02
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
67 occurrences · 7.2% of tests
- 03
The strength or continuity of the load bearing structure within 30cm of any seat belt anchorage (a 'prescribed area') is significantly reduced or inadequately repaired
36 occurrences · 3.9% of tests
- 04
A transmission shaft constant velocity joint boot missing or no longer prevents the ingress of dirt etc
33 occurrences · 3.5% of tests
- 05
Windscreen or window damaged or seriously discoloured but not adversely affecting driver's view
29 occurrences · 3.1% of tests
- 06
Wiper blade missing or obviously not clearing the windscreen
29 occurrences · 3.1% of tests
- 07
Emissions levels exceed the manufacturer's specified limits
28 occurrences · 3.0% of tests
- 08
A rear registration plate lamp or light source missing or inoperative in the case of multiple lamps or light sources
24 occurrences · 2.6% of tests
- 09
Emissions levels exceed default limits
24 occurrences · 2.6% of tests
- 10
Service brake efficiency below minimum requirement
23 occurrences · 2.5% of tests
Counts cover Major and Dangerous defects logged at test. Advisory items excluded so this shows why a car was rejected, not just what the tester flagged in passing.
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Buying or keeping a 214?
Use the failure ranking as a pre-test checklist or a haggling lever. Treat the headline pass rate as a fleet-wide trend, not a guarantee on any individual car.
If you own a 214 and your last MOT looked nothing like the ranked failures above, that's normal — individual cars vary widely. The ranking shows the patterns testers flag most often across the country.