MOT failure · RFR #30616
A steering ball joint with excessive wear or free play
Total
253,001
Models
177
Models most at risk.
Ranked by rate, not raw volume. A Fiesta shows every failure a lot because there are a lot of Fiestas. Rate = share of that model's own MOTs.
- 01 Nissan Primastar 8.67%
- 02 Vauxhall Vivaro 8.33%
- 03 Renault Trafic 7.92%
- 04 Renault Grand Espace 7.60%
- 05 Citroen C Crosser 7.57%
- 06 Peugeot 4007 7.32%
- 07 Hyundai Veloster 7.04%
- 08 Mazda CX 7 6.90%
- 09 Dodge Journey 6.86%
- 10 Hyundai Terracan 6.61%
- 11 Chevrolet Kalos 6.55%
- 12 Kia Soul 6.45%
- 13 Ssangyong Rodius 5.97%
- 14 Renault Espace 5.90%
- 15 Dodge Caliber 5.79%
- 16 Renault Grand Modus 5.77%
- 17 Renault Wind 5.58%
- 18 Renault Megane 5.54%
- 19 Kia Venga 5.48%
- 20 Renault Grand Scenic 5.45%
- 21 Renault G Scenic D Que TT Energy Dciss 5.41%
- 22 Chrysler Jeep PT Cruiser 5.35%
- 23 Ssangyong Rexton 5.33%
- 24 Jeep Patriot Limited Crd 5.26%
- 25 Renault G 5.24%
- 26 Chevrolet Aveo 5.19%
- 27 Nissan Kubistar 5.15%
- 28 Chrysler Jeep Patriot 5.14%
- 29 Mitsubishi Lancer 5.06%
- 30 Renault Kangoo 4.93%
Top 30 by rate. 147 more models also logged this defect.
Typical UK garage cost
£80–£240
for suspension bush / joint / spring. Range covers regional rate spread + part-quality variance. This one needs a lift and a torque wrench — book a garage rather than self-fitting. Open the estimator →
Frequently asked.
- Why does a steering ball joint with excessive… fail an MOT?
- A steering ball joint with excessive wear or free play. Most commonly flagged on the Nissan Primastar. The DVSA's MOT standards require this item to meet minimum safety thresholds — when it falls short, the tester logs it as a Major or Dangerous defect and the car fails outright.
- How much does it cost to fix a steering ball joint with excessive…?
- Typical UK garage cost for suspension bush / joint / spring is £80–£240. The range reflects regional labour rate differences and part-quality choices. Main dealer rates are usually 30–50% higher.
- Can I fix a steering ball joint with excessive… myself?
- This repair typically needs workshop equipment — a lift and specialist tools. Most owners book a garage rather than attempt it at home.
Real examples from owners.
Owner reports sourced from honestjohn.co.uk that mention keywords from this failure. Matched, not summarised.