The picture
944: middle-of-the-pack on first-time pass
Across 2,791 MOT tests, the 944 returns 76.9% 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. An obligatory rear fog lamp missing and a number-plate lamp out round out the top three. Average tested mileage sits at 111,868, 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
88 occurrences · 3.2% of tests
- 02
An obligatory rear fog lamp missing, or a front or rear fog lamp inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning
86 occurrences · 3.1% of tests
- 03
A rear registration plate lamp or light source missing or inoperative in the case of multiple lamps or light sources
81 occurrences · 2.9% of tests
- 04
Windscreen washers not working or not providing sufficient fluid to clear the windscreen
68 occurrences · 2.4% of tests
- 05
Parking brake efficiency below minimum requirement
65 occurrences · 2.3% of tests
- 06
Windscreen or window damaged or seriously discoloured but not adversely affecting driver's view
62 occurrences · 2.2% of tests
- 07
Significant brake effort recorded with no brake applied indicating a binding brake
55 occurrences · 2.0% of tests
- 08
Emissions levels exceed default limits
50 occurrences · 1.8% of tests
- 09
The aim of a headlamp is not within limits laid down in the requirements
44 occurrences · 1.6% of tests
- 10
A lamp missing, inoperative or in the case of a multiple light source more than 1/2 not functioning
42 occurrences · 1.5% 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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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 944?
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 944 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.