Does the MGB fail the MOT on suspension more than it should?
The MGB records 7.14 suspension failure items per 100 initial MOT tests (2019–2024), against 19.48 expected for a car of the same age mix: less than expected for its class and age (−12.34, 95% interval −12.81 to −11.87). It ranks 628 of 701 models on suspension (1 = most failures above expected).
Data release dvsa-2024-v2 (24 Sep 2026) · page updated 30 Sep 2026 · all models on suspension · check a MGB by registration
What exactly fails on suspension?
The most frequent DVSA defect wording in this group on the MGB is “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”, recorded 737 times in 2019–2024.
| DVSA defect wording | Items | Per 100 tests |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | 737 | 2.16 |
| A suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn | 537 | 1.57 |
| A shock absorber damaged to the extent that it does not function or showing signs of severe leakage | 211 | 0.62 |
| A wheel bearing with excessive play | 197 | 0.58 |
| A wheel bearing excessively rough | 160 | 0.47 |
Source: DVSA MOT bulk data (OGL v3.0) · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 34,158 (initial tests) · Method: failure items (major and minor) grouped by DVSA's defect tree; wordings with 30+ items · Updated: 30 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
If a MGB gets a suspension advisory, how often does it fail next time?
7.2% of MGB MOTs with a suspension advisory were followed by a fail in the same group at the next MOT, typically 12.3 months and 524 miles later (3,108 advisories followed).
Source: DVSA MOT bulk data (OGL v3.0) · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 3,108 (advisories followed) · Method: the same vehicles followed to their next ordinary MOT · Updated: 30 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV
Other pages for this model
MGB in the Netherlands · MGB by postcode area · MGB body, chassis and structure failures · MGB brakes failures · MGB vehicle identification failures · MGB lamps, reflectors and electrics failures · MGB noise, emissions and leaks failures · MGB road wheels failures · MGB seat belts and airbags failures · MGB steering failures · MGB tyres failures · MGB visibility failures