MOT Risk Index.co.uk

Vauxhall Cavalier MOT pass rate and common problems

78.6% of Vauxhall Cavaliers passed the 2024 MOT (based on 1,082 first tests): 73.8% at the first attempt and 4.7% after a fix at the test centre (PRS), each rounded separately. About 1 in 4 failed the first attempt. For its age, it fails 25% less often than normal: MOT Risk Index 75.5 (95% CI 68.2–83.3; 100 = normal).

Vauxhall Cavalier at a glance, 2024 MOT
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
MOT pass rate78.6%incl. 4.7% fixed at the test centre20241082
Passed at the first attempt73.8%all first tests20241082
MOT Risk Index (95% CI 68.2–83.3)75.5index100 = normal for its age · rank 222 (tied) of 761 (1 = fails least for its age)20241082
Biggest excess: Suspension26.7per 10019.8 same-age2019–20248791
Dangerous defects9.6per 10011.2 UK, not age-adjusted2019–20248791
Advisory items152.3per 100127.1 UK, not age-adjusted2019–20248791
strip · Vauxhall Cavalier · MOT Risk Index · 75.5 vs 100 = normal · 2024
MOT Risk Index · Vauxhall Cavalier. 0–240; 100 = normal for its age; median model 92.8 · rank 222 (tied) of 761 (1 = fails least for its age). It would rank between 177 and 289 anywhere within its 95% interval, other models held where they are. DVSA, 2024.
Vauxhall Cavalier index position among 761 models
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Rank222of 761published models, 1 = fails least for its age20241082
Best rank within its 95% interval177rankother models held where they are20241082
Worst rank within its 95% interval289rankother models held where they are20241082

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Data release dvsa-2024-v2 (24 Sep 2026) · full dataset (v5). This model's index changed from 71.3 to 75.5 in the 24 September 2026 release, after duplicate test records were removed.

What actually fails on a Vauxhall Cavalier MOT, and how often?

Vauxhall Cavalier MOTs fail most often on suspension: 26.7 per 100 tests, against 19.8 for UK cars of the same age (2019–2024, n = 8,791).

bar · Vauxhall Cavalier · Suspension · 26.7 vs 19.8 · 2019–2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Vauxhall Cavalier: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Suspension26.7per 10019.82019–20242349
Body, chassis, structure18.7per 10015.32019–20241642
Brakes18.5per 10020.52019–20241629
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment18per 10029.62019–20241580
Noise, emissions and leaks11.1per 1007.62019–2024977
Visibility9.8per 10010.82019–2024860

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 8,791 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Will my Vauxhall Cavalier's advisory become a fail at the next MOT?

Vauxhall Cavalier advisories turn into fails more often than on the median model: suspension advisories became a fail at the next MOT 20.3% of the time.

funnel · Vauxhall Cavalier · Suspension · 20.3 vs median model · 2019–2024
Advisories on suspension: 20.3 of 100 became a fail on the same item at the next MOT. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Vauxhall Cavalier: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Suspension20.3% next failmedian model2019–20241356
Body, chassis, structure20.1% next failmedian model2019–2024667
Brakes14.0% next failmedian model2019–20241257
Noise, emissions and leaks10.8% next failmedian model2019–2024897
Tyres5.5% next failmedian model2019–2024781

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 1,082 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

My Vauxhall Cavalier got an MOT advisory: what gets flagged most?

Vauxhall Cavalier MOTs flag suspension most: 44.1 advisories per 100 tests, against 26.2 across UK tests (2019–2024, n = 8,791).

bar · Vauxhall Cavalier · Suspension · 44.1 vs 26.2 · 2019–2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Vauxhall Cavalier: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Suspension44.1per 10026.22019–20243876
Brakes36.6per 10034.72019–20243220
Tyres21.8per 10039.72019–20241917
Body, chassis, structure15.6per 1004.62019–20241372
Noise, emissions and leaks15.5per 1005.22019–20241365
Non-component advisories7.8per 1007.82019–2024686

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 8,791 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

What is likely to fail next on a Vauxhall Cavalier?

For Vauxhall Cavaliers aged 20 or older whose last MOT was a pass, the item most likely to fail at the next MOT is ‘body, chassis, structure’: 6.2% failed on it (2019–2024, n = 2,581).

bar · Vauxhall Cavalier · Body, chassis, structure, 20 years or older, after a pass · 6.2 vs baseline · 2019–2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Vauxhall Cavalier: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Body, chassis, structure, 20 years or older, after a pass6.2% next fail2019–20242581
Suspension, 20 years or older, after a pass5.9% next fail2019–20242581
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 20 years or older, after a pass5.2% next fail2019–20242581
Brakes, 20 years or older, after a pass4.3% next fail2019–20242581
Visibility, 20 years or older, after a pass3.8% next fail2019–20242581
Noise, emissions and leaks, 20 years or older, after a pass3.5% next fail2019–20242581
Steering, 20 years or older, after a pass1.9% next fail2019–20242581
Tyres, 20 years or older, after a pass1.0% next fail2019–20242581
Full table
Further values · 2019–2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 20 years or older, after a pass1.0% next fail2019–20242581
Body, chassis, structure, 20 years or older, after an advisory14.5% next fail2019–20241679
Suspension, 20 years or older, after an advisory14.3% next fail2019–20241679
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 20 years or older, after an advisory10.8% next fail2019–20241679
Brakes, 20 years or older, after an advisory10.2% next fail2019–20241679
Visibility, 20 years or older, after an advisory8.9% next fail2019–20241679
Noise, emissions and leaks, 20 years or older, after an advisory7.1% next fail2019–20241679
Steering, 20 years or older, after an advisory4.4% next fail2019–20241679
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 20 years or older, after an advisory3.2% next fail2019–20241679
Tyres, 20 years or older, after an advisory2.6% next fail2019–20241679
Identification of the vehicle, 20 years or older, after an advisory0.5% next fail2019–20241679
Suspension, 20 years or older, after a fail20.8% next fail2019–20241878
Body, chassis, structure, 20 years or older, after a fail17.8% next fail2019–20241878
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, 20 years or older, after a fail15.0% next fail2019–20241878
Brakes, 20 years or older, after a fail13.1% next fail2019–20241878
Noise, emissions and leaks, 20 years or older, after a fail12.3% next fail2019–20241878
Visibility, 20 years or older, after a fail10.5% next fail2019–20241878
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems, 20 years or older, after a fail5.3% next fail2019–20241878
Steering, 20 years or older, after a fail4.4% next fail2019–20241878
Tyres, 20 years or older, after a fail3.3% next fail2019–20241878
Identification of the vehicle, 20 years or older, after a fail0.4% next fail2019–20241878
Steering, an unknown age, after a fail (rough estimate: 43 cars)14.0% next fail2019–202443

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 1,082 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

How often does a Vauxhall Cavalier get a dangerous MOT defect?

The Vauxhall Cavalier gets a dangerous defect less often than the UK average: 9.6 per 100 first tests against 11.2 across the UK. In the same tests, 90.0 major and 16.3 minor defects were recorded per 100 tests (one test can record several).

bullet · Vauxhall Cavalier · Dangerous defects · 9.6 vs 11.2 · 2019–2024
Dangerous defects: 9.6 vs 11.2. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Vauxhall Cavalier: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Dangerous defects9.6per 10011.22019–20248791

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 8,791 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id; severity not recorded for some 2018–2021 tests · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

How much does it cost to fix a Vauxhall Cavalier MOT fail?

Expected repair cost per Vauxhall Cavalier MOT: about £123 (up to about £234 if more expensive parts are needed), from the chance of failing each item and its most common UK repair price (catalogue estimate, n = 1,082).

Computed, not measured.

bar · Vauxhall Cavalier · Expected repair bill · 123.2 vs modal price catalogue · price catalogue
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Vauxhall Cavalier: the numbers behind this answer (price catalogue)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Expected repair bill123.2GBP estimatemodal price catalogueprice catalogue1082
Estimated range lower123.2GBP estimatemodal price catalogueprice catalogue1082
Estimated range upper234.1GBP estimatemodal price catalogueprice catalogue1082
Suspension: Suspension coil spring (single corner)48.1GBP expected contribution180price catalogue1082
Brakes: Front brake pads (parts + labour, typical hatchback)27.8GBP expected contribution150price catalogue1082
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment: Battery replacement (standard 12V lead-acid)25.2GBP expected contribution140price catalogue1082
Noise, emissions and leaks: Exhaust rear silencer22.2GBP expected contribution200price catalogue1082

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: price catalogue · n = 1,082 (initial tests) · Method: computed estimate, not measured · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Is the Vauxhall Cavalier more reliable than similar cars?

Of 8 similar models, 4 fail less often for their age than the Vauxhall Cavalier and 4 as often or more. The Vauxhall Cavalier has an MOT Risk Index of 75.5, where 100 = normal for its age (2024, n = 1,082).

bar · Vauxhall Cavalier · Vauxhall Cavalier (this model) · 75.5 vs 100 = normal · 2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Vauxhall Cavalier: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Vauxhall Cavalier (this model)75.5index100 = normal20241082
Volkswagen Corrado75.5index75.520241188
Land Rover 8875.2index75.520241313
Chrysler 30074.3index75.520241534
Honda e81index75.520241473
Mazda MX-3072.6index75.520242025
Vauxhall Cascada85.1index75.520242822
Porsche 94473.4index75.520242252
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Mercedes-Benz R-Class78.7index75.520242065

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 1,082 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

How many miles does a Vauxhall Cavalier last?

42.1% of Vauxhall Cavaliers tested had reached 100,000 miles, and 14.2% had reached 150,000 (2024, n = 3,694).

line · Vauxhall Cavalier · 100,000 miles · 42.1 vs baseline · 2024
100,000 miles: 42.1. 200,000 miles (rou: 3.6. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Vauxhall Cavalier: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
100,000 miles42.1% of tested cars20243694
150,000 miles14.2% of tested cars20241243
200,000 miles (rough estimate: 312 tests, 95% interval 3.2–4.0%)3.6% of tested cars2024312

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 1,082 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Is the Vauxhall Cavalier driven more or less than average, and does that change the picture?

Matched on annual mileage as well as age, the Vauxhall Cavalier index is 96.5, against 98.1 on age alone (2019–2024, n = 1,082).

slope · Vauxhall Cavalier · Age and mileage adjusted index · 96.5 vs 98.1 · 2019–2024
Age and mileage adjusted index: 98.1 vs 96.5. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Vauxhall Cavalier: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Age and mileage adjusted index96.5index98.12019–20241082

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 1,082 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Which Vauxhall Cavalier fuel fails its MOT less?

All Vauxhall Cavaliers tested were petrol: 25.9% failed first time (2024, n = 1,021).

bar · Vauxhall Cavalier · Petrol · 25.9 vs other fuels · 2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Vauxhall Cavalier: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Petrol25.9% fail first timeother fuels20241021

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 1,082 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Which Vauxhall Cavalier engine is best?

For its age, the best Vauxhall Cavalier engine is the petrol over 2.0 litre at index 75.9, and the worst the diesel 1.5–1.8 litre at 112.5, where 100 = the model's own average (2024, n = 1,082).

bar · Vauxhall Cavalier · Petrol over 2.0 litre (rough estimate: 178 tests, 95% interval 58.0–97.2) · 75.9 vs 100 = model average · 2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Vauxhall Cavalier: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Petrol over 2.0 litre (rough estimate: 178 tests, 95% interval 58.0–97.2)75.9index vs model norm100 = model average2024178
Petrol 1.8–2.0 litre (rough estimate: 2,642 tests, 95% interval 82.7–93.5)88index vs model norm100 = model average20242642
Petrol 1.2–1.5 litre (rough estimate: 111 tests, 95% interval 70.0–123.4)94.5index vs model norm100 = model average2024111
Petrol 1.5–1.8 litre (rough estimate: 4,278 tests, 95% interval 102.4–111.4)106.8index vs model norm100 = model average20244278
Diesel 1.5–1.8 litre (rough estimate: 597 tests, 95% interval 100.7–124.9)112.5index vs model norm100 = model average2024597

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 1,082 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Where in Britain does the Vauxhall Cavalier fail its MOT most?

Vauxhall Cavalier fails first-time MOTs most in Norwich (NR): 43.6% against 31.0% across Britain for this model, both 2019–2024 (2024, n = 156).

bar · Vauxhall Cavalier · Norwich (NR) (rough estimate: 156 tests, 95% interval 36.1–51.4%) · 43.6 vs 26.2 · 2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Vauxhall Cavalier: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Norwich (NR) (rough estimate: 156 tests, 95% interval 36.1–51.4%)43.6% fail first time26.22024156
Stoke-on-Trent (ST) (rough estimate: 115 tests, 95% interval 34.8–52.6%)43.5% fail first time26.22024115
Swindon (SN) (rough estimate: 128 tests, 95% interval 30.3–46.9%)38.3% fail first time26.22024128
Glasgow (G) (rough estimate: 126 tests, 95% interval 8.0–19.6%)12.7% fail first time26.22024126
Birmingham (B) (rough estimate: 187 tests, 95% interval 15.2–26.7%)20.3% fail first time26.22024187
Stevenage (SG) (rough estimate: 106 tests, 95% interval 14.1–29.4%)20.8% fail first time26.22024106
Chelmsford (CM) (rough estimate: 100 tests, 95% interval 29.1–47.8%)38% fail first time26.22024100
Hemel Hempstead (HP) (rough estimate: 100 tests, 95% interval 29.1–47.8%)38% fail first time26.22024100
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Bournemouth (BH) (rough estimate: 108 tests, 95% interval 29.4–47.4%)38.0% fail first time26.22024108
Southampton (SO) (rough estimate: 117 tests, 95% interval 29.4–46.6%)37.6% fail first time26.22024117
Llandudno (LL) (rough estimate: 100 tests, 95% interval 27.3–45.8%)36% fail first time26.22024100
Tonbridge (TN) (rough estimate: 145 tests, 95% interval 28.5–43.9%)35.9% fail first time26.22024145
Chester (CH) (rough estimate: 164 tests, 95% interval 27.9–42.3%)34.8% fail first time26.22024164
Bristol (BS) (rough estimate: 146 tests, 95% interval 26.4–41.6%)33.6% fail first time26.22024146
Peterborough (PE) (rough estimate: 199 tests, 95% interval 26.5–39.5%)32.7% fail first time26.22024199
Newport (NP) (rough estimate: 120 tests, 95% interval 24.8–41.3%)32.5% fail first time26.22024120
Nottingham (NG) (rough estimate: 166 tests, 95% interval 25.3–39.4%)31.9% fail first time26.22024166
Medway (ME) (rough estimate: 107 tests, 95% interval 23.7–41.1%)31.8% fail first time26.22024107
Sheffield (S) (rough estimate: 159 tests, 95% interval 24.7–39.0%)31.4% fail first time26.22024159
Gloucester (GL) (rough estimate: 113 tests, 95% interval 23.2–40.0%)31.0% fail first time26.22024113
Leicester (LE) (rough estimate: 186 tests, 95% interval 23.0–35.9%)29.0% fail first time26.22024186
Ipswich (IP) (rough estimate: 133 tests, 95% interval 19.6–34.4%)26.3% fail first time26.22024133
Newcastle (NE) (rough estimate: 137 tests, 95% interval 19.0–33.5%)25.6% fail first time26.22024137
Derby (DE) (rough estimate: 152 tests, 95% interval 18.8–32.4%)25% fail first time26.22024152
Luton (LU) (rough estimate: 193 tests, 95% interval 19.3–31.4%)24.9% fail first time26.22024193
Milton Keynes (MK) (rough estimate: 181 tests, 95% interval 18.1–30.5%)23.8% fail first time26.22024181
Dartford (DA) (rough estimate: 102 tests, 95% interval 16.4–32.6%)23.5% fail first time26.22024102
Doncaster (DN) (rough estimate: 113 tests, 95% interval 15.5–30.6%)22.1% fail first time26.22024113

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 1,082 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

What do six years of MOTs show about owning a Vauxhall Cavalier?

Of failed Vauxhall Cavalier MOTs, 19.1% were retested the same day and a further 70.7% within 10 days; the median failed car passed its retest after 3 days (2019–2024, n = 1,667).

bar · Vauxhall Cavalier · Same-day retest · 19.1 vs failed initial tests · 2019–2024
DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Vauxhall Cavalier: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Same-day retest19.1%failed initial tests2019–20241667
Retest within 10 days70.7%failed initial tests2019–20241667
Clean MOT streak39.0%observed chains2019–20241544
Repeat advisory30.6%observed chains2019–20241544
Decreasing odometer2.5% mileage anomalyobserved chains2019–20241963

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 1,082 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

If a Vauxhall Cavalier fails, does it fail again?

29.8% of Vauxhall Cavaliers that failed an MOT failed the next one too, against 24% after a pass (2019–2024, n = 630). The failure most likely to come back is steering: 40.0% of those fails recurred at the next MOT.

bullet · Vauxhall Cavalier · Repeat after fail · 29.8 vs 24 · 2019–2024
Repeat after fail: 29.8 vs 24. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Vauxhall Cavalier: the numbers behind this answer (2019–2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Repeat after fail29.8%242019–2024630

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 1,082 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Which Vauxhall Cavalier faults come together?

On Vauxhall Cavaliers, identification of the vehicle and ‘lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment’ failures turn up together 5.4 times as often as chance would predict (2024, n = 21).

Vauxhall Cavalier: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Identification of the vehicle + Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment (rough estimate: 21 tests, 95% interval 3.4–8.3)5.4liftexpected joint rate202421
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems + Suspension (rough estimate: 192 tests, 95% interval 4.4–5.9)5.1liftexpected joint rate2024192
Brakes + Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems (rough estimate: 117 tests, 95% interval 3.7–5.3)4.4liftexpected joint rate2024117
Noise, emissions and leaks + Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems (rough estimate: 87 tests, 95% interval 3.4–5.2)4.2liftexpected joint rate202487
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Tyres (rough estimate: 93 tests, 95% interval 3.4–5.1)4.2liftexpected joint rate202493
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems + Tyres (rough estimate: 27 tests, 95% interval 2.8–6.1)4.2liftexpected joint rate202427
Brakes + Tyres (rough estimate: 80 tests, 95% interval 3.2–5.0)4.0liftexpected joint rate202480
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems (rough estimate: 116 tests, 95% interval 3.2–4.7)3.9liftexpected joint rate2024116
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
Brakes + Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment (rough estimate: 342 tests, 95% interval 3.4–4.2)3.8liftexpected joint rate2024342
Brakes + Noise, emissions and leaks (rough estimate: 230 tests, 95% interval 3.2–4.1)3.6liftexpected joint rate2024230
Body, chassis, structure + Noise, emissions and leaks (rough estimate: 293 tests, 95% interval 3.2–4.0)3.6liftexpected joint rate2024293
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Noise, emissions and leaks (rough estimate: 253 tests, 95% interval 3.1–4.0)3.6liftexpected joint rate2024253
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems + Steering (rough estimate: 35 tests, 95% interval 2.5–5.0)3.6liftexpected joint rate202435
Brakes + Suspension (rough estimate: 408 tests, 95% interval 3.2–3.9)3.5liftexpected joint rate2024408
Steering + Tyres (rough estimate: 25 tests, 95% interval 2.2–5.0)3.4liftexpected joint rate202425
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Visibility (rough estimate: 250 tests, 95% interval 3.0–3.8)3.4liftexpected joint rate2024250
Noise, emissions and leaks + Suspension (rough estimate: 299 tests, 95% interval 3.0–3.7)3.3liftexpected joint rate2024299
Noise, emissions and leaks + Tyres (rough estimate: 51 tests, 95% interval 2.5–4.3)3.3liftexpected joint rate202451
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Suspension (rough estimate: 421 tests, 95% interval 3.0–3.6)3.3liftexpected joint rate2024421
Body, chassis, structure + Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems (rough estimate: 110 tests, 95% interval 2.6–3.9)3.2liftexpected joint rate2024110
Body, chassis, structure + Brakes (rough estimate: 333 tests, 95% interval 2.8–3.5)3.2liftexpected joint rate2024333
Suspension + Tyres (rough estimate: 89 tests, 95% interval 2.5–3.9)3.2liftexpected joint rate202489
Brakes + Steering (rough estimate: 93 tests, 95% interval 2.5–3.8)3.1liftexpected joint rate202493
Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems + Visibility (rough estimate: 65 tests, 95% interval 2.3–3.8)3.0liftexpected joint rate202465
Body, chassis, structure + Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment (rough estimate: 352 tests, 95% interval 2.7–3.3)3.0liftexpected joint rate2024352
Body, chassis, structure + Steering (rough estimate: 114 tests, 95% interval 2.4–3.5)2.9liftexpected joint rate2024114
Tyres + Visibility (rough estimate: 47 tests, 95% interval 2.1–3.9)2.9liftexpected joint rate202447
Steering + Suspension (rough estimate: 121 tests, 95% interval 2.3–3.4)2.8liftexpected joint rate2024121
Noise, emissions and leaks + Steering (rough estimate: 66 tests, 95% interval 2.2–3.6)2.8liftexpected joint rate202466
Body, chassis, structure + Tyres (rough estimate: 71 tests, 95% interval 2.2–3.5)2.8liftexpected joint rate202471
Brakes + Visibility (rough estimate: 183 tests, 95% interval 2.4–3.2)2.8liftexpected joint rate2024183
Noise, emissions and leaks + Visibility (rough estimate: 142 tests, 95% interval 2.3–3.2)2.8liftexpected joint rate2024142
Body, chassis, structure + Suspension (rough estimate: 404 tests, 95% interval 2.4–3.0)2.7liftexpected joint rate2024404
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Steering (rough estimate: 88 tests, 95% interval 2.1–3.2)2.6liftexpected joint rate202488
Suspension + Visibility (rough estimate: 244 tests, 95% interval 2.3–2.9)2.6liftexpected joint rate2024244
Body, chassis, structure + Visibility (rough estimate: 218 tests, 95% interval 2.2–2.9)2.5liftexpected joint rate2024218
Steering + Visibility (rough estimate: 54 tests, 95% interval 1.6–2.9)2.2liftexpected joint rate202454
Body, chassis, structure + Identification of the vehicle (seen together; too few for a multiplier)19tests with both202419
Brakes + Identification of the vehicle (seen together; too few for a multiplier)18tests with both202418
Identification of the vehicle + Noise, emissions and leaks (seen together; too few for a multiplier)16tests with both202416
Identification of the vehicle + Suspension (seen together; too few for a multiplier)16tests with both202416
Identification of the vehicle + Visibility (seen together; too few for a multiplier)9tests with both20249
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment + Road Wheels (seen together; too few for a multiplier)8tests with both20248
Road Wheels + Suspension (seen together; too few for a multiplier)8tests with both20248
Identification of the vehicle + Seat belts and supplementary restraint systems (seen together; too few for a multiplier)7tests with both20247
Brakes + Road Wheels (seen together; too few for a multiplier)7tests with both20247
Identification of the vehicle + Steering (seen together; too few for a multiplier)7tests with both20247
Noise, emissions and leaks + Road Wheels (seen together; too few for a multiplier)6tests with both20246
Body, chassis, structure + Road Wheels (seen together; too few for a multiplier)6tests with both20246
Identification of the vehicle + Tyres (seen together; too few for a multiplier)5tests with both20245
Body, chassis, structure + Speedometer and speed limiter (seen together; too few for a multiplier)5tests with both20245

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 1,082 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Has the Vauxhall Cavalier had safety recalls?

DVSA lists 3 safety recall campaigns matched to the Vauxhall Cavalier; check whether yours has been fixed, using its registration number.

Vauxhall Cavalier: the numbers behind this answer (DVSA register)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
DVSA recall campaigns matched3campaignsDVSA registerDVSA register1082

Source: DVSA register; recall effect covers 11 of 761 models · Window: DVSA register · n = 1,082 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Does the month of a Vauxhall Cavalier MOT matter?

Vauxhall Cavaliers fail first time most in October (36.9%, against 30.3% for all cars that month) and least in May (25.1%) (2024, n = 1,082).

line · Vauxhall Cavalier · January · 35.4 vs 31.1 · 2024
January: 35.4. December: 34.4. DVSA MOT bulk data, 24 Sep 2026.
Vauxhall Cavalier: the numbers behind this answer (2024)
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
January35.4% fail first time31.12024636
February34.7% fail first time30.02024571
March32.5% fail first time28.32024684
April31.5% fail first time29.82024673
May25.1% fail first time28.82024786
June30.7% fail first time28.12024822
July29.1% fail first time29.32024986
August28.4% fail first time29.22024856
Full table
Further values · 2024
MeasureValueUnitCompared withYearsTests
September25.7% fail first time28.22024838
October36.9% fail first time30.32024823
November32.5% fail first time30.62024689
December34.4% fail first time29.32024427

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2024 · n = 1,082 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

Not enough tests for… (and why)

Tyres, brakes and suspension: how does the Vauxhall Cavalier compare with cars of the same age?

not computed for this model: no qualifying records. 1,082 initial Vauxhall Cavalier tests are in the published model cohort.

Source: DVSA MOT bulk data · Window: 2019–2024 · n = 1,082 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

See the Alfa Romeo Spider, a car of the same inspection class with 3.0× the tests · Check your car by registration

What have dealers been told about the Vauxhall Cavalier? (US market)

layer not yet computed for this model (covers 211 of 761 models). 1,082 initial Vauxhall Cavalier tests are in the published model cohort.

Source: NHTSA, US market; covers 211 of 761 models · Window: NHTSA · n = 1,082 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

See the Alfa Romeo Spider, a car of the same inspection class with 3.0× the tests · Check your car by registration

Does the Vauxhall Cavalier fail inspections in other countries too?

no match in the other-country inspection register. 1,082 initial Vauxhall Cavalier tests are in the published model cohort.

Source: Statens vegvesen PKK (CC BY 4.0), Traficom Katsastus (CC BY 4.0), RDW APK (CC0), adapted; covers 430 of 761 models · Window: 2024 by country · n = 1,082 (initial tests) · Method: one initial test per test_id · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

See the Alfa Romeo Spider, a car of the same inspection class with 3.0× the tests · Check your car by registration

Real-world MPG against the official figure (manufacturer level)

layer not yet computed for this model (covers 19 of 761 models). 1,082 initial Vauxhall Cavalier tests are in the published model cohort.

Source: European Commission OBFCM; covers 19 of 761 models · Window: 2021+ cohorts · n = 1,082 (initial tests) · Method: computed estimate, not measured · Updated: 24 Sep 2026 · Release: dvsa-2024-v2 · CSV

See the Alfa Romeo Spider, a car of the same inspection class with 3.0× the tests · Check your car by registration

How to cite this page

MOT Risk Index (2026). Vauxhall Cavalier MOT statistics 2024 (data release dvsa-2024-v2; full dataset motriskindex-families-2024-v5, DOI 10.5281/zenodo.22975051), updated 24 September 2026. motriskindex.co.uk/cars/vauxhall-cavalier/

How the MOT Risk Index and every figure on this page are calculated: methodology.

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Vauxhall Cavalier MOT: quick answers

What is the Vauxhall Cavalier first-time MOT pass rate?

73.8% of first attempts passed in 2024 (1,082 tests). Retests after repair are excluded; cars fixed at the test centre (PRS) are shown separately.

Why does this number differ from other sites?

Other sites may count retests or all attempts. This page uses 1,082 primary tests: 26.16% failed first time and 78.6% passed when cars fixed at the test centre (PRS) count as passes. The age-adjusted MOT Risk Index 75.5 is shown separately.