MOT History from tests of petrol MERCEDES BENZ SLs year 1981

Review the list of common MERCEDES BENZ SL failures below or to perform a specific mot history check on your MERCEDES BENZ then use our popular KnowYourCar service

mot history

Pass percent:76.14%

(The average a petrol MERCEDES BENZ SL year 1981 passes without issue)

Based on:1,144 MOT Tests

Most common failures	No# failures
Headlamp aim out of alignment	77
Windscreen wiper does not clear the windscreen effectively	35
Registration plate lamp issues	24
Rear brake binding	21
Offside Rear Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded (2.4.A.3)	19
Brake pipe excessively corroded	19
Nearside Rear Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded (2.4.A.3)	18
Registration plate issues	16
Brakes imbalanced across an axle	16
Nearside Front Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded (2.4.A.3)	14
Exhaust has a major leak of exhaust gases (7.1.2)	11
Offside Front Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded (2.4.A.3)	11
Brake hose excessively deteriorated	11
Exhaust emissions carbon monoxide content excessive (7.3.B.1a)	8
Nearside front brake binding (3.7.B.1)	8
Nearside Front front brake binding (3.7.B.1)	7
Offside Front front brake binding (3.7.B.1)	7
Nearside Front Service brake excessively binding (1.2.1 (f))	6
Rear Exhaust system not adequately supported (7.1.1)	6
Exhaust emissions carbon monoxide content excessive (8.2.1.2 (b))	6
Front Exhaust has a major leak of exhaust gases (7.1.2)	6
Offside Headlamp not working on dipped beam (1.7.5a)	6
Offside front brake binding (3.7.B.1)	6
Parking brake: efficiency below requirements (3.7.B.7)	5
Nearside Rear Subframe mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded (2.4.A.3)	5
Offside Rear Subframe mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded (2.4.A.3)	5
Rear Mechanical brake component has restricted free movement	5
Exhaust emissions hydrocarbon content excessive (7.3.B.1b)	5
Front brake application uneven	5
Nearside Rear Position lamp not working (4.2.1 (a) (ii))	5
Rear parking brake recording little or no effort	5
Nearside Headlamp not working on dipped beam (1.7.5a)	4
Hazard warning lamps not flashing in phase, with ignition on (1.4.B.1f)	4
Hazard warning lamps not flashing in phase, with ignition off (1.4.B.1f)	4
Power steering component(s) leaking (2.3.3b)	4
Rear Exhaust has a major leak of exhaust gases (7.1.2)	4
Mechanical brake component has restricted free movement	4
Battery insecure (1.9.1)	4
Nearside Front Seat belt retracting mechanism defective (5.2.5b)	4
Centre Exhaust has a major leak of exhaust gases (7.1.2)	4
Windscreen washer not working	4
Parking brake efficiency below requirements (1.4.2 (a) (i))	4
Windscreen has damage	4
Nearside Front Steering component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded (2.2.C.1h)	4
Offside Rear fog lamp not working (1.3.2b)	4
Offside Front position lamp(s) not working (1.1.A.3b)	3
Rear fog lamp not working (4.5.1 (a) (ii))	3
Offside Rear Service brake excessively binding (1.2.1 (f))	3
Nearside Front Seat belt insecurely fixed to the seat (5.2.1a)	3
Steering system has excessive free play detected at the steering wheel (steering box fitted) (2.2.A.1a)	3
All direction indicators not working (4.4.1 (a) (ii))	3
Offside Front Service brake excessively binding (1.2.1 (f))	3
Service brake: efficiency below requirements \|3.7.B.7\|	3
Parking brake: efficiency below requirements \|3.7.B.7\|	3
Nearside Front Headlamp aim beam image obviously incorrect (1.8.A.1b)	3
Offside Front Headlamp aim beam image obviously incorrect (1.8.A.1b)	3
Offside Front Vehicle structure has excessive corrosion, seriously affecting its strength within 30cm of the body mountings (6.1.B.2)	3
Offside Rear Stop lamp not working (1.2.1b)	3
Rear fog lamp not working (1.3.2b)	3
Offside Front Steering component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded (2.2.C.1h)	3
Nearside Side repeater not working (1.4.A.2c)	3
Horn not working (1.6.2a)	3
Hazard warning switch faulty (1.4.B.1d)	3
Rear brake application uneven	3
Offside Stop lamp(s) not working (4.3.1 (a) (ii))	3
Nearside Front Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded \|2.4.A.3\|	3
Nearside Front position lamp(s) not working (1.1.A.3b)	3
Exhaust system not adequately supported (7.1.1)	3
Nearside Headlamp not working on main beam (1.7.5a)	3
Rear fog lamp tell tale not working \|1.3.1b\|	3
Exhaust emissions hydrocarbon content excessive (8.2.1.2 (b))	3
Nearside Front Position lamp not working (4.2.1 (a) (ii))	3
Nearside Rear front brake binding (3.7.B.1)	2
Offside Rear front brake binding (3.7.B.1)	2
Direction indicators not working (1.4.A.2c)	2
Nearside Seat belt anchorage prescribed area is excessively corroded (5.2.6)	2
Service brake: efficiency below requirements (3.7.B.7)	2
Offside Front Vehicle structure has an unsatisfactory modification, seriously affecting its strength within 30cm of the body mountings (6.1.B.2)	2
Offside Front Lower Suspension arm corroded and seriously weakened (2.4.G.1)	2
Nearside Seat belt anchorage prescribed area is excessively corroded floor (5.2.6)	2
Offside Front Body or chassis has excessive corrosion, seriously affecting its strength within 30cm of the body mountings (6.1.B.2)	2
Nearside Front Headlamp not working on main beam (4.1.1 (a) (ii))	2
Nearside Front Direction indicator not working (1.4.A.2c)	2
Fuel system component leaking (7.2.3)	2
Offside Front Seat belt retracting mechanism defective (5.2.5b)	2
Brake hose has insufficient room to move	2
Hazard warning lamps inoperative (1.4.B.1b)	2
Offside Front Headlamp not working on dipped beam \|1.7.5a\|	2
Offside Rear Position lamp not working (4.2.1 (a) (ii))	2
Speedometer cannot be illuminated (7.8 (c) (ii))	2
Offside Front Seat belt damaged sufficient to significantly weakened the webbing (5.2.2a)	2
Nearside Front Anti-roll bar linkage rubber bush deteriorated resulting in excessive movement (2.4.G.2)	2
Offside Front Anti-roll bar linkage rubber mounting deteriorated resulting in excessive movement (2.4.G.2)	2
Offside Inner Rear Body or chassis has excessive corrosion, seriously affecting its strength within 30cm of the body mountings (6.1.B.2)	2
Offside Front wheel bearing rough when rotated (2.5.A.2)	2
Offside Front Anti-roll bar linkage pin or bush excessively worn (5.3.4 (a) (i))	2
Offside Headlamp not working on main beam (1.7.5a)	2
Nearside Rear Service brake excessively binding (1.2.1 (f))	2
Offside Front Steering pivot point has excessive play \|2.2.B.1g\|	2
Offside Stop lamp not working (1.2.1b)	2
Offside Front Direction indicator not working (1.4.A.2c)	2
Parking brake lever has no reserve travel (3.1.6b)	2
Offside Stop lamp not working \|1.2.1b\|	2
Nearside Rear position lamp\|s\| not working \|1.1.A.3b\|	2
Drivers seat cannot be secured in the upright position. (6.2.A.2)	2
All position lamps not working (1.1.A.3b)	2
Brake hose damaged	2
Offside Rear Shock absorber has a serious fluid leak (2.7.3)	2
Offside Front Headlamp not working on main beam (4.1.1 (a) (ii))	2
Drivers door cannot be opened from outside the vehicle (6.2.B.1b)	2
Nearside Front brake caliper has restricted free movement (3.5.1k)	2
Nearside Front Subframe mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded (2.4.A.3)	2
Offside Front Subframe mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded (2.4.A.3)	2
Front passenger door cannot be opened from outside the vehicle (6.2.3 (a))	2
Drivers seat fore and aft adjustment mechanism not functioning as intended. (6.2.A.3)	2
Centre Exhaust system not adequately supported (7.1.1)	2
Offside Seat belt anchorage prescribed area is excessively corroded (5.2.6)	2
Nearside Front Sub-frame has excessive play in a pin/bush (2.4.G.2)	2
Offside Front Sub-frame has excessive play in a pin/bush (2.4.G.2)	2
Headlamp switch faulty (1.7.1)	2
Rear fog lamp switch faulty (1.3.1a)	2
Offside Rear Seat belt anchorage prescribed area is excessively corroded (5.2.6)	2
Nearside Stop lamp not working (1.2.1b)	2
Nearside Front Direction indicator incorrect colour (1.4.A.2f)	2
Nearside Front Exhaust has a major leak of exhaust gases (7.1.2)	2
Offside Seat belt stitching badly frayed \|5.2.2b\|	1
Exhaust has part of the system excessively deteriorated (7.1.1a)	1
Offside Seat belt retracting mechanism defective (5.2.5b)	1
Offside Rear position lamp(s) incomplete (1.1.4a)	1
Offside Front Suspension arm attachment bracket/mounting damaged and its strength is seriously reduced (2.4.G.1)	1
Offside Front Suspension arm attachment bracket/mounting fractured (2.4.G.1)	1
Brake performance not tested (3.7.A.1)	1
Nearside Front Headlamp not working on dipped beam (4.1.1 (a) (ii))	1
Nearside Front Integral body structure or chassis has excessive corrosion, seriously affecting its strength within 30cm of a body mounting (6.2.2 (d) (i))	1
Offside Front Integral body structure or chassis has excessive corrosion, seriously affecting its strength within 30cm of a body mounting (6.2.2 (d) (i))	1
Offside Rear Fuel pipe union leaking (6.1.3 (b) (i))	1
Central Front Exhaust has a major leak of exhaust gases (6.1.2 (a))	1
Brake performance not tested (1.2.1 (g))	1
Nearside Rear Suspension component mounting prescribed area excessively corroded significantly reducing structural strength (5.3.6 (a) (i))	1
Nearside Front Integral body structure corroded to the extent that the rigidity of the assembly is significantly reduced (6.1.1 (c) (i))	1
Steering system excessively rough (2.2.D.1)	1
Vehicle structure has excessive corrosion, seriously affecting its strength within 30cm of the body mountings \|6.1.B.2\|	1
Hazard warning switch inoperative (4.4.2 (a) (ii))	1
Brake has no servo assistance \|3.3.B.2\|	1
Front Headlamp aim beam image obviously incorrect \|1.8.A.1b\|	1
Rear fog lamp not working \|1.3.2b\|	1
Rear Fuel pipe union leaking \|7.2.3\|	1
Offside Front Vehicle structure has excessive corrosion, seriously affecting its strength within 30cm of the body mountings \|6.1.B.2\|	1
Nearside Front Front passenger door cannot be opened from outside the vehicle (6.2.B.1b)	1
Offside Rear Vehicle structure has an unsatisfactory modification, seriously affecting its strength within 30cm of the body mountings (6.1.B.2)	1
Offside Rear Rear fog lamp not working (1.3.2b)	1
Fuel hose leaking (7.2.3)	1
Offside Front Hydraulic brake calliper leaking (1.1.16 (b) (i))	1
Power steering pipe(s) or hose(s) leaking from a joint (2.3.3b)	1
Rear Fuel pipe leaking (6.1.3 (b) (i))	1
Nearside Rear Stop lamp(s) not working (4.3.1 (a) (ii))	1
Headlamp not working on dipped beam both (4.1.1 (a) (ii))	1
Nearside Rear Suspension component mounting prescribed area excessively corroded significantly reducing structural strength Inner wheelbox/chassis rail/sill (5.3.6 (a) (i))	1
Offside Rear Suspension component mounting prescribed area excessively corroded significantly reducing structural strength Inner Wheelbox/chassis rail/sill (5.3.6 (a) (i))	1
Nearside Front All position lamps not working (1.1.A.3b)	1
Offside Rear Rear position lamp(s) not working (1.1.A.3b)	1
Fuel hose leaking return hose to fuel tank (6.1.3 (b) (i))	1
Nearside Seat belt affected by an insecure seat fixing (5.2.1b)	1
Offside Front Seat belt affected by an insecure seat fixing (5.2.1b)	1
Nearside Rear Shock absorber has negligible damping effect (2.7.5)	1
Nearside Inner Track rod end ball joint has excessive play (2.2.B.1f)	1
Power steering fluid level below minimum (2.3.1)	1
Offside Front Headlamp not working on dipped beam (1.7.5a)	1
Nearside Rear position lamp(s) excessively deteriorated so that it is not visible from a reasonable distance (1.1.A.3d)	1
Nearside Vehicle structure has excessive corrosion, seriously affecting its strength within 30cm of the body mountings (6.1.B.2)	1
Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded \|2.4.A.3\|	1
Hazard warning tell tale not working correctly (1.4.B.1e)	1
Brake hydraulic reservoir damaged and function impaired (3.6.A.2c)	1
Offside Subframe mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded outer sill (2.4.A.3)	1
Nearside Subframe mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded outer sill (2.4.A.3)	1
Offside Rear Subframe mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded inner wing (2.4.A.3)	1
Offside Seat belt anchorage prescribed area is excessively corroded center floor holed (5.2.6)	1
Nearside Rear Subframe mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded chassis (2.4.A.3)	1
Offside Rear Subframe mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded chassis (2.4.A.3)	1
Nearside Front Sub-frame rubber bush deteriorated resulting in excessive movement (2.4.G.2)	1
Offside Front Sub-frame rubber bush deteriorated resulting in excessive movement (2.4.G.2)	1
Nearside Front Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded & o/s/f inner wings to bulkhead (2.4.A.3)	1
Offside Front Lower Front suspension ball joint dust cover excessively damaged so that it no longer prevents the ingress of dirt (2.4.G.2)	1
Offside Front Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded inner wing around shocker (2.4.A.3)	1
Nearside Indicator tell tale inoperative \|1.4.A.2a\|	1
Nearside Front Lower Body or chassis has excessive corrosion, seriously affecting its strength within 30cm of the body mountings \|6.1.B.2\|	1
Offside Rear position lamp\|s\| not working \|1.1.A.3b\|	1
Exhaust system insecure (6.1.2 (a))	1
Steering box leaking to the extent that oil is dripping (2.1.1 (e) (ii))	1
Inner Rear position lamp(s) excessively deteriorated so that it is not visible from a reasonable distance (1.1.A.3d)	1
Offside Rear Upper Anti-roll bar rubber mounting bonding deteriorated resulting in excessive movement (2.4.G.2)	1
Nearside Front Upper Sub-frame rubber bush deteriorated resulting in excessive movement (2.4.G.2)	1
Nearside Front Lower Sub-frame has excessive play in a pin/bush (2.4.G.2)	1
Offside Front Direction indicator not working (4.4.1 (a) (ii))	1
Offside Headlamp insecure (4.1.1 (c))	1
Speedometer cannot be illuminated. (6.7.3)	1
Nearside Front Electrical wiring damaged, likely to cause a short under bonnet (1.9.2b)	1
Nearside Front Lower Suspension arm ball joint dust cover excessively deteriorated so that it no longer prevents the ingress of dirt (2.4.G.2)	1
Offside Front Lower Suspension arm ball joint dust cover excessively deteriorated so that it no longer prevents the ingress of dirt (2.4.G.2)	1
Windscreen wiper blade insecure	1
Front passenger door cannot be opened from outside the vehicle (6.2.B.1b)	1
Rear Suspension component mounting prescribed area excessively corroded significantly reducing structural strength inner door sills both sides (5.3.6 (a) (i))	1
Rear Suspension component mounting prescribed area excessively corroded significantly reducing structural strength floor pan both sides (5.3.6 (a) (i))	1
Offside Rear Suspension component mounting prescribed area excessively corroded significantly reducing structural strength outer door sill (5.3.6 (a) (i))	1
Rear Suspension component mounting prescribed area excessively corroded significantly reducing structural strength inner wheel arches both sides (5.3.6 (a) (i))	1
Offside Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded (2.4.A.3)	1
Offside Front brake caliper leaking (3.6.A.1)	1
Nearside Rear Rear position lamp(s) not working (1.1.A.3b)	1
Nearside Front Seat belt damaged sufficient to significantly weakened the webbing (5.2.2a)	1
Offside Rear Suspension spring mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded (2.4.A.3)	1
Nearside Body or chassis has excessive corrosion, seriously affecting its strength within 30cm of the body mountings (6.1.B.2)	1
Front Vehicle structure has excessive corrosion, seriously affecting its strength within 30cm of the body mountings (6.1.B.2)	1
Nearside Front wheel bearing rough when rotated (2.5.A.2)	1
Nearside Rear brake disc excessively pitted (3.5.1h)	1
Offside Rear brake disc excessively pitted (3.5.1h)	1
Driver`s seat cannot be secured in the upright position. \|6.2.A.2\|	1
Front passenger seat cannot be secured in the upright position. \|6.2.4\|	1
Centre Exhaust system not adequately supported \|7.1.1\|	1
Rear Exhaust system not adequately supported \|7.1.1\|	1
Offside Rear Stop lamp(s) not working (4.3.1 (a) (ii))	1
Offside Front Seat belt retracting mechanism defective (7.1.2 (e))	1
Nearside Rear Seat belt buckle not functioning as intended (7.1.2 (d))	1
Offside Rear Seat belt buckle not functioning as intended (7.1.2 (d))	1
Battery insecure and likely to fall from carrier (4.13 (a) (ii))	1
Offside Rear Suspension component mounting prescribed area excessively corroded significantly reducing structural strength Inner sill marked yellow (5.3.6 (a) (i))	1
Offside Rear Suspension component mounting prescribed area excessively corroded significantly reducing structural strength Underside/body marked yellow (5.3.6 (a) (i))	1
Nearside Front Lower Suspension arm corroded and seriously weakened (5.3.3 (b) (i))	1
Offside Front Lower Suspension arm corroded and seriously weakened (5.3.3 (b) (i))	1
Offside Front Suspension component mounting prescribed area excessively corroded significantly reducing structural strength Inner wheel arch within strut prescribed area marked yellow (5.3.6 (a) (i))	1
Nearside Front Steering linkage insecure to the extent there is excessive movement at the mountings Steering idle arm marked yellow (2.1.3 (a) (ii))	1
Nearside Rear Seat belt anchorage prescribed area strength or continuity significantly reduced Sill marked yellow (7.1.1 (a) (i))	1
Emissions not tested Not holding idle and excessive exhaust blow (8.2.1.2 (d))	1
Exhaust has a major leak of exhaust gases Down pipe joint (6.1.2 (a))	1
Nearside Front Passengers seat backrest cannot be secured in the upright position. (6.2.6 (a) (i))	1
Offside Front Seat belt damaged sufficient to obstruct correct operation of the belt (5.2.2a)	1
Exhaust has a major leak of exhaust gases (6.1.2 (a))	1
Offside Vehicle structure corroded to the extent that the rigidity of the assembly is significantly reduced (6.1.1 (c) (i))	1
Nearside Front Anti-roll bar linkage pin or bush excessively worn (5.3.4 (a) (i))	1
Central Exhaust has a major leak of exhaust gases (6.1.2 (a))	1
Offside Headlamp not working on dipped beam (4.1.1 (a) (ii))	1
Horn not working (7.7 (a) (ii))	1
Windscreen has a sticker or other obstruction encroaching into the swept area by more than 40mm outside zone A (8.3.1e)	1
Offside Front Headlamp not in good working order \|not working\| \|1.2.4a\|	1
Offside Front Sub-frame has excessive play in a pin/bush \|2.4.G.2\|	1
Anti-lock braking system warning lamp indicates an ABS fault	1
Fuel cap/sealing device sealing washer missing (7.2.4c)	1
Nearside Headlamp not in good working order adversely affecting beam image (1.2.4a)	1
Offside Headlamp not in good working order adversely affecting beam image (1.2.4a)	1
Centre Front Exhaust has a major leak of exhaust gases (7.1.2)	1
Offside Rear Exhaust has a major leak of exhaust gases (7.1.2)	1
Offside Front Seat belt insecurely fixed to the seat (5.2.1a)	1
Offside rear brake recording little or no effort (3.7.B.5a)	1
Parking brake lever ratchet not holding correctly \|1.1.6 \|a\|\|	1
Parking brake efficiency below requirements \|1.4.2 \|a\| \|i\|\|	1
Fuel cap/sealing device ineffective (6.1.3 (b) (i))	1
Nearside Stop lamp not working \|1.2.1b\|	1
Offside Front Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded \|2.4.A.3\|	1
Nearside Front wheel bearing rough when rotated \|2.5.A.2\|	1
Nearside Rear fog lamp not working (4.5.1 (a) (ii))	1
Nearside Front Steering component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded as marked (2.1.2 (e) (i))	1
Brake fluid warning lamp inoperative (3.6.G.2)	1
Nearside Front Track rod end ball joint dust cover excessively damaged or deteriorated so that it no longer prevents the ingress of dirt (2.1.3 (g) (ii))	1
Nearside Front Vehicle structure has excessive corrosion which adversely affects braking or steering (6.1.A.1)	1
Nearside Outer Front Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded (2.4.A.3)	1
Position lamp switch cannot be operated from the normal driving position (1.1.A.1)	1
Nearside Rear Anti-roll bar linkage has excessive play in a pin/bush (2.4.G.2)	1
Nearside Outer Seat belt anchorage prescribed area is excessively corroded (5.2.6)	1
Front passenger seat cannot be secured in the upright position. (6.2.4)	1
Nearside rear brake grabbing severely (3.7.A.5b)	1
Nearside Front Headlamp aim beam image obviously incorrect \|1.8.A.1b\|	1
Offside Front Headlamp aim beam image obviously incorrect \|1.8.A.1b\|	1
Nearside Front Track rod end ball joint has excessive play \|2.2.B.1f\|	1
Centre Exhaust has a major leak of exhaust gases \|7.1.2\|	1
Parking brake lever defective so that it cannot be satisfactorily operated \|3.1.3c\|	1
Nearside Headlamp aim beam image obviously incorrect (1.8.A.1b)	1
Offside Headlamp aim beam image obviously incorrect (1.8.A.1b)	1
Position lamp switch faulty (1.1.A.1)	1
Nearside Front Upper Suspension arm has excessive play in a pin/bush (2.4.G.2)	1
Rear Suspension spring mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded \|2.4.A.3\|	1
Nearside Front Suspension spring mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded \|2.4.A.3\|	1
Offside Front Seat belt insecurely fixed to the vehicles structure (5.2.1a)	1
Offside Drivers seat backrest cannot be secured in the upright position. (6.2.5 (b) (ii))	1
Front Service brake excessively binding nearside and offside (1.2.1 (f))	1
Headlamp not working on dipped beam (4.1.1 (a) (ii))	1
Headlamp not working on main beam (4.1.1 (a) (ii))	1
Offside Rear Seat belt anchorage prescribed area strength or continuity significantly reduced outer sill (7.1.1 (a) (i))	1
Offside Rear Subframe mounting prescribed area excessively corroded significantly reducing structural strength outer sill (5.3.6 (a) (i))	1
Offside Front Brake hose bulging under pressure (3.6.B.3)	1
Offside Front Brake hose leaking (3.6.A.1)	1
Nearside Front Seat belt damaged sufficient to obstruct correct operation of the belt \|5.2.2a\|	1
Nearside Front Vehicle structure has excessive corrosion which adversely affects braking or steering \|6.1.A.1\|	1
Offside Front Windscreen wiper blade deteriorated \|8.2.2\|	1
Nearside Rear Vehicle structure has an inadequate repair, seriously affecting its strength within 30cm of the body mountings \|6.1.B.2\|	1
Offside Front Integral body structure or chassis has excessive corrosion, seriously affecting its strength within 30cm of a body mounting inner arch (6.2.2 (d) (i))	1
Offside Front An item not tested (Manual)	1
Rear fog lamp tell tale not working (1.3.1b)	1
Rear Fuel hose insecure fuel pump supply hoses (7.2.1)	1
Nearside Track rod end ball joint dust cover excessively damaged so that it no longer prevents the ingress of dirt (2.2.C.1c)	1
Exhaust emissions - engine idle speed too high (8.2.1.2 (e))	1
Nearside Front Vehicle structure has excessive corrosion, seriously affecting its strength within 30cm of the body mountings (6.1.B.2)	1
Nearside Front Lower Steering locking device missing \|2.2.C.1g\|	1
Offside Lower Seat belt insecurely fixed to the seat \|5.2.1a\|	1
Offside Seat belt insecurely fixed to the seat \|5.2.1a\|	1
Nearside Lower Seat belt insecurely fixed to the seat \|5.2.1a\|	1
Offside Front position lamp\|s\| not working \|1.1.A.3b\|	1
Offside Rear fog lamp not working \|1.3.2b\|	1
Central Front Track rod end ball joint dust cover excessively damaged or deteriorated so that it no longer prevents the ingress of dirt (2.1.3 (g) (ii))	1
Nearside Front Headlamp not working on dipped beam \|1.7.5a\|	1
Front Headlamp not working on main beam \|1.7.5a\|	1
Rear Fuel pipe excessively chafed \|7.2.2\|	1
Offside Rear Brake hose excessively damaged \|3.6.B.4d\|	1
Offside Rear Valve stem seriously damaged (5.2.3 (j))	1
Offside Rear Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded inner sill (2.4.A.3)	1
Offside Front Shock absorber has a serious fluid leak (2.7.3)	1
Nearside Headlamp not working on dipped beam \|1.7.5a\|	1
Offside Headlamp not working on main beam \|1.7.5a\|	1
Headlamp aim not tested \|1.8.A.1c\|	1
Horn not working \|1.6.2a\|	1
Nearside Rear Direction indicator not working \|1.4.A.2c\|	1
Main beam `tell-tale` not working \|1.7.4c\|	1
Windscreen wiper not operating automatically when switched on \|8.2.1b\|	1
Nearside Front Upper Front suspension ball joint dust cover excessively deteriorated so that it no longer prevents the ingress of dirt \|2.4.G.2\|	1
Offside Front Upper Front suspension ball joint dust cover excessively deteriorated so that it no longer prevents the ingress of dirt \|2.4.G.2\|	1
Offside Rear Suspension component mounting prescribed area excessively corroded significantly reducing structural strength anti roll bar mounting/boot floor (5.3.6 (a) (i))	1
Nearside Headlamp not working on dipped beam (4.1.1 (a) (ii))	1
Nearside Front Suspension component mounting prescribed area excessively corroded significantly reducing structural strength anti roll bar mounting (inside of chassis rail) (5.3.6 (a) (i))	1
Offside Front Suspension component mounting prescribed area excessively corroded significantly reducing structural strength anti roll bar mounting (5.3.6 (a) (i))	1
Nearside Front Seat belt anchorage prescribed area strength or continuity significantly reduced (7.1.1 (a) (i))	1
Offside Rear Anti-roll bar linkage insecurely attached (5.3.3 (a) (i))	1
Offside Rear Seat belt locking mechanism does not secure or release (5.2.5a)	1
Front Upper Exhaust has a major leak of exhaust gases (7.1.2)	1
Offside Outer Rear Lower Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded (2.4.A.3)	1
Offside Outer Front Lower Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded (2.4.A.3)	1
Parking brake lever has no reserve travel \|3.1.6b\|	1
Hazard warning switch faulty \|1.4.B.1d\|	1
Fuel system component leaking \|7.2.3\|	1
Nearside Front Seat belt locking mechanism does not secure or release \|5.2.5a\|	1
Offside Front Seat belt locking mechanism does not secure or release \|5.2.5a\|	1
Offside Front brake caliper has restricted free movement (3.5.1k)	1
Nearside front brake juddering severely (3.7.A.2b)	1
Nearside Rear Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded inner arch (2.4.A.3)	1
Offside Rear Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded inner arch (2.4.A.3)	1
Offside Front Headlamp not working on dipped beam (4.1.1 (a) (ii))	1
Offside Rear Rear fog lamp switch inoperative (4.5.3 (a) (ii))	1
Offside Inner Front Suspension arm locating pin locking device missing (2.4.G.3b)	1
Nearside Front Anti-roll bar attachment bracket/mounting damaged and its strength is seriously reduced (2.4.G.1)	1
Offside Front Headlamp aim beam image too far to the right (1.6.B4)	1
Anti-lock braking system warning lamp does not illuminate (3.4.1b)	1
Offside Outer Rear Vehicle structure has excessive corrosion, seriously affecting its strength within 30cm of the body mountings (6.1.B.2)	1
Offside Inner Front Body or chassis has excessive corrosion, seriously affecting its strength within 30cm of the body mountings (6.1.B.2)	1
Nearside Inner Front Body or chassis has excessive corrosion, seriously affecting its strength within 30cm of the body mountings (6.1.B.2)	1
Nearside Front Body or chassis has excessive corrosion, seriously affecting its strength within 30cm of the body mountings (6.1.B.2)	1
Nearside Inner Rear Body or chassis has excessive corrosion, seriously affecting its strength within 30cm of the body mountings (6.1.B.2)	1
Front Passengers seat cannot be secured in the upright position. (6.2.A.2)	1
Nearside Headlamp aim beam image kick up to the offside (1.8)	1
Offside Headlamp aim beam image kick up to the offside (1.8)	1
Fuel pipe union leaking (7.2.3)	1
Rear Rear fog lamp not working (4.5.1 (a) (ii))	1
Rear fog lamp tell-tale not working (4.9.1 (a) (ii))	1
Offside Front Outer Track rod end ball joint dust cover excessively damaged or deteriorated so that it no longer prevents the ingress of dirt (2.1.3 (g) (ii))	1
Offside Rear Anti-roll bar linkage insecure and impairing directional stability (5.3.3 (a) (ii))	1
Offside Rear Parking brake inoperative on one side (1.4.1 (a))	1
Nearside Front Outer Track rod end ball joint dust cover excessively damaged or deteriorated so that it no longer prevents the ingress of dirt (2.1.3 (g) (ii))	1
Offside Front Sub-frame attachment rubber mounting deteriorated resulting in excessive movement (2.4.G.2)	1
Front Exhaust has a major leak of exhaust gases exh balance pipe holed and leaking (7.1.2)	1
Nearside Rear Rear position lamp(s) excessively deteriorated so that it is not visible from a reasonable distance (1.1.A.3d)	1
Offside Rear Rear position lamp(s) excessively deteriorated so that it is not visible from a reasonable distance (1.1.A.3d)	1
Fuel cap/sealing device does not fasten securely maintaining the sealing arrangement (7.2.4b)	1
Offside Rear Rear fog lamp not working (4.5.1 (a) (ii))	1
Horn not working (7.7 (a))	1
Nearside Front Indicator switch inoperative \|4.4.2 \|a\| \|ii\|\|	1
Nearside Front Suspension arm corroded and seriously weakened (2.4.G.1)	1
Offside Seat belt affected by an insecure seat fixing (5.2.1b)	1
Front Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded (2.4.A.3)	1
Nearside Front Passengers seat cannot be secured in the upright position. (6.2.A.2)	1
Offside Rear Brake hose excessively twisted (1.1.12 (b) (ii))	1
Offside Rear Inner Subframe mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded sill (2.4.A.3)	1
Front Headlamp not working on dipped beam (1.7.5a)	1
Nearside Rear Direction indicator not working (1.4.A.2c)	1
Front Headlamp aim not tested (1.8.A.1c)	1
Rear Fuel pipe union leaking (7.2.3)	1
Offside Front Anti-roll bar attachment bracket/mounting corroded and its strength is seriously reduced (2.4.G.1)	1
Nearside Rear Anti-roll bar attachment bracket/mounting corroded and its strength is seriously reduced (2.4.G.1)	1
Offside Rear Anti-roll bar attachment bracket/mounting corroded and its strength is seriously reduced (2.4.G.1)	1
Offside front brakes release unevenly (3.7.B.4)	1
Rear Sub-frame rubber bush deteriorated resulting in excessive movement Both sides (2.4.G.2)	1
Nearside Front Inner Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded (2.4.A.3)	1
Offside Front Inner Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded (2.4.A.3)	1
Offside Front Anti-roll bar linkage rubber bush deteriorated resulting in excessive movement (2.4.G.2)	1
Nearside Front wheel bearing has excessive play (2.5.A.3c)	1
Offside Front Outer Track rod end ball joint has excessive play (2.2.B.1f)	1
Offside Front Inner Track rod end ball joint has excessive play (2.2.B.1f)	1
Hazard warning switch missing (1.4.B.1d)	1
Offside Rear Inner Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded sill (2.4.A.3)	1
Nearside Rear Inner Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded sill (2.4.A.3)	1
Offside Front Seat belt damaged (7.1.2 (b) (i))	1
Offside Rear Wheel bearing rough when rotated maybe brakes (5.1.3 (b) (i))	1
Exhaust emissions likely to be affected by an exhaust leak (8.2.1.1 (b))	1
Front Exhaust has a major leak of exhaust gases extensive holes everywhere in exhaust (6.1.2 (a))	1
Nearside Front Suspension component mounting prescribed area excessively corroded significantly reducing structural strength chassis rail (5.3.6 (a) (i))	1
Offside Rear Suspension component mounting prescribed area excessively corroded significantly reducing structural strength end of sill (5.3.6 (a) (i))	1
Offside Inner Rear Suspension component mounting prescribed area is inadequately repaired (2.4.A.3)	1
Offside Front Seat belt stitching badly frayed (5.2.2b)	1
Nearside Front Seat belt stitching badly frayed (5.2.2b)	1
Nearside Windscreen wiper not operating automatically when switched on (8.2.1b)	1
Offside Windscreen wiper not operating automatically when switched on (8.2.1b)	1
Nearside Rear Vehicle structure has excessive corrosion, seriously affecting its strength within 30cm of the body mountings back inner susp arm upper (6.1.B.2)	1
Offside Rear Vehicle structure has excessive corrosion, seriously affecting its strength within 30cm of the body mountings inner upper (6.1.B.2)	1
Nearside Rear Suspension arm attachment bracket/mounting bolt missing (2.4.G.1)	1
Rear Stop lamp not working (1.2.1b)	1
Nearside Front Wheel bearing rough when rotated (5.1.3 (b) (i))	1
Nearside Rear Hydraulic brake calliper insecurely mounted (1.1.16 (c) (i))	1
Windscreen washer jets misaligned and not providing sufficient fluid to the windscreen (3.5 (a))	1
Nearside Front Cab or chassis has excessive corrosion, seriously affecting its strength within 30cm of a cab mounting (6.2.2 (d) (i))	1
Nearside Front Front passenger door cannot be opened from outside the vehicle (6.2.3 (a))	1
Rear Fuel pipe union leaking (6.1.3 (b) (i))	1
Nearside Front Seat belt damaged (7.1.2 (b) (i))	1
Offside Headlamp not working on main beam (4.1.1 (a) (ii))	1
Offside Rear Suspension component mounting prescribed area excessively corroded significantly reducing structural strength under sill (5.3.6 (a) (i))	1
Offside Rear Inner Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded SILL TO FLOOR (2.4.A.3)	1
Nearside Front Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded FLOOR (2.4.A.3)	1
Direction indicators flashing more than 120 times a minute (1.4.A.2g)	1
Nearside Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded (2.4.A.3)	1
Offside Front Inner Integral body structure corroded to the extent that the rigidity of the assembly is significantly reduced sill (6.1.1 (c) (i))	1
Indicator switch faulty \|1.4.A.1\|	1
Indicator tell tale inoperative \|1.4.A.2a\|	1
Fuel cap/sealing device missing \|7.2.4a\|	1
Emissions not tested (7.3.A.1)	1
Nearside Rear Shock absorber has a serious fluid leak (2.7.3)	1
Steering wheel retaining device missing (2.1.6)	1
Offside Front Seat belt anchorage prescribed area is excessively corroded (5.2.6)	1
Nearside Rear Anti-roll bar linkage has excessive play in a ball joint (2.4.G.2)	1
Offside Rear Anti-roll bar linkage fractured (2.4.G.1)	1
Offside Front coil spring fractured (2.4.C.1a)	1
Battery insecure \|1.9.1\|	1
Offside Seat belt anchorage prescribed area is excessively corroded floor (5.2.6)	1
Offside Front Subframe mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded inner wheel arch (2.4.A.3)	1
Offside Rear Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded inner wheel arch (2.4.A.3)	1
Nearside Rear Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded inner wheel arch (2.4.A.3)	1
Offside Rear Outer Seat belt anchorage prescribed area is excessively corroded sill (5.2.6)	1
Nearside Rear Outer Seat belt anchorage prescribed area is excessively corroded sill (5.2.6)	1
Nearside Rear Seat belt anchorage prescribed area is excessively corroded wing (5.2.6)	1
Nearside Front Anti-roll bar linkage has excessive play in a pin/bush (2.4.G.2)	1
Offside Front Anti-roll bar linkage has excessive play in a pin/bush (2.4.G.2)	1
Offside Front Subframe mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded front mount (2.4.A.3)	1
Nearside Front Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded shock absorber mount (2.4.A.3)	1
Offside Rear Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded lower arm mount (2.4.A.3)	1
Brake pipe leaking (3.6.A.1)	1
Emissions not tested (7.0)	1
Offside Front Front passenger door cannot be opened from outside the vehicle (6.2.B.1b)	1
Rear Rear fog lamp adversely affected by the operation of another lamp (4.5.4 (b))	1
Rear Exhaust emissions carbon monoxide content excessive (7.3.B.1a)	1
Drivers view of the road through the swept area of the windscreen materially affected by an obstruction (3.1 (a) (ii))	1
Offside Track rod end ball joint dust cover insecure so that it no longer prevents the ingress of dirt (2.1.3 (g) (ii))	1
Nearside Front Lower Suspension arm ball joint dust cover no longer prevents the ingress of dirt (5.3.4 (b) (ii))	1
Offside Front Lower Suspension arm ball joint dust cover no longer prevents the ingress of dirt (5.3.4 (b) (ii))	1
Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded (2.4.A.3)	1
Offside Front Seat belt has a cut which has significantly weakened the webbing (5.2.2a)	1
Nearside front brakes release unevenly (3.7.B.4)	1
Nearside Indicator tell tale inoperative (1.4.A.2a)	1
rear parking (secondary) brakes imbalanced (3.7.B.6b)	1
Nearside Seat belt retracting mechanism defective (5.2.5b)	1
Offside Front Steering component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded floor (2.2.C.1h)	1
Nearside Steering component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded chassis (2.2.C.1h)	1
Offside Rear Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded chassis (2.4.A.3)	1
Offside Rear Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded floor (2.4.A.3)	1
Nearside Rear Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded chassis (2.4.A.3)	1
Nearside Rear Outer Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded sill (2.4.A.3)	1
Nearside Front Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded chassis (2.4.A.3)	1
Offside Front Suspension component mounting prescribed area is excessively corroded chassis (2.4.A.3)	1
Offside Rear fog lamp not working (4.5.1 (a) (ii))	1
Nearside Rear position lamp(s) adversely affected by the operation of another lamp (1.1.A.3f)	1
front brake binding both (3.7.B.1)	1

We get to these numbers by trawling through over 1 billion MOT test results since 2004 and crunched the numbers. We remove anything to do with Tyres, as they are model independent and group together common non-model specific issues. We are trying to get to a picture of what models have what issues.

Please note: We take the data from the DVSA. This data is raw and can contain typos and spelling mistakes that garages may have entered while recording a MOT result. Specifically miss-match on names of models and makes. We are constantly cleaning the data so bear with the odd issue.

Got suggestions? We’re improving this section all the time. If you have any suggestions, please let us know.

MOT History from tests of petrol MERCEDES BENZ SLs year 1981

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