Across 11,256 MOT tests of the Audi A8 in the DfT's 2023 MOT data (initial tests, retests excluded), 12.9% failed — about 1 in 8. The parts that fail most are tyres (4.4% of tests), lights and electrics (3.2%), brakes (2.1%), wipers, windscreen and mirrors (2.1%) and suspension (2.0%).
Allowing for age and mileage, the Audi A8 has 59% fewer MOT failures than the average car of the same age and mileage.
The MOT checks safety and emissions items — brakes, suspension, steering, lights, tyres, body structure and exhaust emissions. It does not test engines, gearboxes or most electronics, so those faults only show up here when they cause an emissions failure or a leak.
A8 (2003–2025)
MOT: 12.9% of 11,256 initial tests failed — 59% fewer failures than the average car of the same age and mileage
| # | Part / area | Share of MOT tests failing |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | tyres | 4.4% |
| 2 | lights and electrics | 3.2% |
| 3 | brakes | 2.1% |
| 4 | wipers, windscreen and mirrors | 2.1% |
| 5 | suspension | 2.0% |
Questions
What fails most on a Audi A8 at MOT?
The most common MOT failure is tyres: 4.4% of Audi A8 MOT tests in the 2023 data failed on tyres. Next come lights and electrics (3.2%) and brakes (2.1%).
How often does a Audi A8 fail its MOT?
12.9% of Audi A8 MOT tests in the 2023 data failed (about 1 in 8), counting initial tests only, across 11,256 tests. Allowing for age and mileage, that is 59% fewer MOT failures than the average car of the same age and mileage.
Is the Audi A8 reliable?
On MOT results, the Audi A8 has 59% fewer MOT failures than the average car of the same age and mileage. MOT data covers safety and emissions items, not engines or gearboxes.
Does this Audi A8 data cover engine and gearbox problems?
No. The MOT checks safety and emissions items — brakes, suspension, steering, lights, tyres, body structure and exhaust emissions. It does not test engines, gearboxes or most electronics, so those faults only show up here when they cause an emissions failure or a leak.