MOT failure rates

Toyota Land Cruiser MOT failure rates: what to expect

What fails on a Toyota Land Cruiser at MOT, how often, and what each fix typically costs.

Updated 4th September 2026 DVSA data: Across 20,583 recorded MOT tests, 22.4% failed.

Toyota Land Cruiser
Image via Wikipedia, CC-licensed.

The Toyota Land Cruiser is known for its durability and reliability, but like any vehicle, it can encounter issues during its MOT. Common failures include suspension problems, brake wear, and emissions issues. Fixing these problems can vary in cost, depending on the severity and parts needed.

Suspension Issues

One of the most frequent causes of MOT failures for the Toyota Land Cruiser is suspension-related problems. This can include worn shock absorbers, damaged springs, or issues with the anti-roll bar.

Regular checks and maintenance can help prevent these issues from escalating.

Brake System Failures

Brakes are critical for safety, and any faults can lead to an MOT failure. Common issues include worn brake pads, damaged discs, or leaks in the brake lines.

Regular brake inspections can help catch these issues early.

Emissions Problems

With increasing scrutiny on emissions, the Toyota Land Cruiser can face MOT failures due to high emissions levels. This can be caused by a faulty catalytic converter, worn spark plugs, or issues with the fuel system.

Regular servicing can help maintain the vehicle’s emissions system and avoid costly repairs.

Tyre Condition

Tyres are essential for safety and performance, and their condition is a common MOT failure point. Issues can include tread depth below the legal limit, uneven wear, or sidewall damage.

Regularly checking tyre pressure and tread depth can help ensure they remain within legal limits and prevent premature wear.

Lighting and Visibility

Another common area for MOT failures is lighting and visibility. This includes issues with headlights, brake lights, and indicators, as well as wiper blades and windscreen condition.

Regularly checking lights and wipers can help ensure they are functioning properly.

Bodywork and Structural Integrity

MOT testers will also assess the bodywork and structural integrity of the Toyota Land Cruiser. Common issues include rust, corrosion, or damage to the chassis.

Regular cleaning and rust prevention measures can help maintain the vehicle’s bodywork.

By being aware of these common MOT failure points and their associated costs, Toyota Land Cruiser owners can take proactive steps to ensure their vehicle remains in good condition and passes its MOT. Regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent these issues from arising and save money in the long run.

Toyota Land Cruiser recall record

10 recalls have been issued for the Toyota Land Cruiser, between 1996 and 2025.

  1. Parking Assist ECU reprogram on multiple models

    R/2025/466

    Issued 1 December 2025

    For certain vehicles equipped with a Parking Assist ECU a component of the Panoramic View Monitor (PVM) system that displays the rear view image the software may cause the rear view image to freeze or not display

    Remedy:Reprogram the parking assist ECU.

    Affects cars built Feb 2024 to Sept 2025

  2. IMPROPER TIGHTENING OF THE FUEL PIPE MAY LEAD TO LEAKAGE AND ENGINE STALL

    R/2019/332

    Issued 25 November 2019

    Improper tightening of the fuel pipe may lead to leakage and engine stall.

    Remedy:Replace the fuel inlet pipe and clamp

    Affects cars built Mar 2019 to Apr 2019

  3. DRIVER AND/OR FRONT PASSENGER AIRBAG MAY FAIL TO DEPLOY AS INTENDED

    R/2017/251

    Issued 13 November 2017

    An incorrect specification driver or front passenger air bag assembly may have been installed during production. As a result the airbag(s) may not deploy as intended.

    Remedy:On affected vehicles replace the air bag with the correct module.

  4. EGR FLANGE COULD CORRODE AND CRACK

    R/2017/133

    Issued 12 June 2017

    The urea water injector mounting flange on the exhaust front pipe may fail and allow the urea water injector to separate from the front pipe. This situation could result in noncompliance with requirements prescribed in applicable safety or emission regulations in the involved countries.

    Remedy:Recall the vehicles that are likely to be affected and replace front exhaust pipe.

    Affects cars built Jun 2015 to Jan 2016

6 older recalls not shown.

A recall applies to a build range, not to every car of this model. Check a registration to see whether one specific vehicle has an outstanding recall.

Toyota Land Cruiser MOT record

From 20,583 recorded MOT tests, 22.4% failed.

MOT pass and failure rates by year of first registration
RegisteredTestsFailedMedian mileage
20229306.6%27,143 mi
20214537.7%36,623 mi
20204139.4%45,985 mi
20195839.8%53,781 mi
201858310.5%58,664 mi
201743810.7%68,201 mi
20165859.9%77,252 mi
201571413.2%82,476 mi

Most common reasons for failure

  1. A suspension pin, bush or joint excessively worn35.3%
  2. Brake pipe damaged or excessively corroded21.3%
  3. Vehicle structure corroded to the extent that the rigidity of the assembly is seriously reduced16.7%
  4. A spring or spring component fractured or seriously weakened13.4%
  5. a brake lining or pad worn below 1.5mm13.3%

Figures cover every Toyota Land Cruiser tested in the DVSA dataset, not this specific car. Check a registration for the actual history of one vehicle.

Toyota Land Cruiser official figures

Median across 3 variants on sale, diesel, diesel electric.

Combined economy
26.4 mpg
WLTP median across variants
CO2 emissions
280 g/km
Sets the first-year tax rate

Official figures for new cars. Real economy varies with driving, load and conditions.

Frequently asked questions

What is the MOT requirement for a Toyota Land Cruiser in the UK?

In the UK, a Toyota Land Cruiser must have an MOT test when it is three years old and then annually thereafter. This ensures the vehicle meets safety and environmental standards.

How can I check the MOT history of a Toyota Land Cruiser?

You can check the MOT history of a Toyota Land Cruiser by visiting the official UK government website. You will need the vehicle's registration number to access its records.

What common issues should I look for in a used Toyota Land Cruiser before its MOT?

Before the MOT, check for signs of rust, worn tyres, and any fluid leaks. Also, ensure that all lights and indicators are functioning properly.

What happens if my Toyota Land Cruiser fails its MOT?

If your Toyota Land Cruiser fails its MOT, you will receive a list of reasons for the failure. You will need to address these issues and have the vehicle retested.

Can I drive my Toyota Land Cruiser if it has an expired MOT?

No, you cannot legally drive your Toyota Land Cruiser if it has an expired MOT, unless you are taking it to a pre-booked MOT appointment. Driving without a valid MOT can result in fines.

How can I prepare my Toyota Land Cruiser for its MOT?

To prepare your Toyota Land Cruiser for its MOT, ensure it is clean and check the tyre pressure, fluid levels, and brakes. It may also be helpful to have a mechanic perform a pre-MOT check.

Is there a grace period for renewing the MOT on my Toyota Land Cruiser?

There is no official grace period for renewing the MOT on your Toyota Land Cruiser. It is advisable to renew it before the expiry date to avoid any legal issues.

Sources