The picture
Impreza: middle-of-the-pack on first-time pass
Across 22,233 MOT tests, the Impreza returns 75.9% first-time pass — roughly in line with the UK fleet average. The single most-logged Major fail is the strength or continuity of the load bearing. A number-plate lamp out and a split CV-joint boot round out the top three. Average tested mileage sits at 98,475, 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
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
1,043 occurrences · 4.7% of tests
- 02
A rear registration plate lamp or light source missing or inoperative in the case of multiple lamps or light sources
922 occurrences · 4.1% of tests
- 03
A transmission shaft constant velocity joint boot severely deteriorated
713 occurrences · 3.2% of tests
- 04
A lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning
611 occurrences · 2.7% of tests
- 05
Lambda coefficient outside the default limits or the range specified by the manufacturer
596 occurrences · 2.7% of tests
- 06
Windscreen or window damaged or seriously discoloured but not adversely affecting driver's view
553 occurrences · 2.5% of tests
- 07
Headlamp reflector or lens slightly defective
533 occurrences · 2.4% of tests
- 08
Emissions levels exceed the manufacturer's specified limits
408 occurrences · 1.8% of tests
- 09
The aim of a headlamp is not within limits laid down in the requirements
360 occurrences · 1.6% of tests
- 10
A transmission shaft constant velocity joint boot missing or no longer prevents the ingress of dirt etc
349 occurrences · 1.6% 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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Picked against this car's top failure patterns. Affiliate links to Amazon UK — we earn a small cut at no cost to you. Disclosed up-front, doesn't shape the data.
Buying or keeping a Impreza?
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 Impreza 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.