High-confidence used car comparison
Ford Focus vs Volkswagen Golf: reliability and MOT problems
Volkswagen Golf has the lower MOT failure rate in this comparison: 18.6% versus 20.3% for the Ford Focus, based on 2,271,937 combined UK MOT tests. A difference of 1.7% is useful as a signal, but the exact car's MOT history and repair evidence still matter most.
Statistics are built from DVSA MOT tests carried out in calendar year 2023, plus official recall records and MOT fault wording data. Report index generated 2026-05-09.
| Model | MOT failure rate | Tests | Vehicles | Median tested mileage |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ford Focus | 20.3% | 1,207,223 tests | 944,751 vehicles | 78,734 miles |
| Volkswagen Golf | 18.6% | 1,064,714 tests | 852,811 vehicles | 85,509 miles |
Volkswagen Golf has the lower recorded MOT failure rate in this pair.
Open both model reports and compare repeat advisories, mileage-band failure rates, recalls, tyres, brakes, suspension, warning lights, and corrosion history.
Open the Ford Focus report or open the Volkswagen Golf report.