Citroen 2CV Classic (1948-1990) reliability
Citroen 2CV Classic built before 2000: about average at the MOT
Citroen 2CV Classic models built before 2000 fail their MOT a little less often than similar cars the same age. An independent inspection matters more than the wider numbers on cars this old.
Looking at a Citroen 2CV Classic?
Enter its number plate to see its full MOT history, risk rating and running costs.
Key figure
22% of MOT tests on Citroen 2CV Classic models built before 2000 ended in a fail (retests included), against 25% for similar cars the same age.
Most common issue
The most common MOT issue on Citroen 2CV Classic models built before 2000 involves fluid leaks.
Based on 2,996 tests of 2CV models registered 1948-1990.
About 1 in 10 2CV Classic MOTs (10.5%) failed and still hadn't passed 3 days later. That's for cars built before 2000 (over 25 years old), all fuels combined.
Based on 2,996 tests (DVSA MOT results, 2025). A fail that passed a retest within 3 days, even the same day, isn't counted. Nor is a fail with no later MOT on record.
About 1 in 25 2CV Classic MOTs (4.4%) found at least one dangerous defect. These are cars built before 2000 (over 25 years old).
Based on 2,996 tests (DVSA MOT results, 2025). Dangerous is the most serious grade an MOT gives: a direct risk to road safety.
Classic fail rate by age
Fail rate is the share of MOT tests that ended in a fail. Retests count as tests. How we count fail rates Build years are worked out from age, so they are approximate. Tests counted are 2025 MOTs. Highest fail rate at 25+ years old.
How the 2CV Classic compares
At each age below, see how the 2CV Classic holds up against other cars the same age. The averages combine all fuel types.
Based on 4,699 tests across 4 Citroen models, built before 2000 (over 25 years old).
Fail rate is the share of MOT tests that ended in a fail. Retests count as tests. How we count fail rates Build years are worked out from age, so they are approximate. Tests counted are 2025 MOTs.
What to check before viewing
The model's most common MOT issues, turned into things you can ask about or look for.
Leaks
Worth checkingInspect the leaks carefully and ask the seller for repair history.
Suspension bushes and joints
Worth checkingListen for knocks over speed bumps and ask about recent control-arm or anti-roll-bar work.
Tyres
Worth checkingCheck tread depth across the full width on all four; uneven wear suggests alignment or suspension issues.
Exhaust
Worth checkingListen for blow noises from a cold start; check for rust and leaks at the manifold and cat connections.
Vehicle-specific check
Worth checkingCheck the car’s number plate on MOT Wise to see its own MOT history and any recalls for its build years.
Other hatchbacks to compare
Other hatchbacks, with each one's figures taken at the same age as the 2CV Classic.
- 1
Ford Sierra
Same body type, tested at the same age
- Fail rate
- 11.5%
- Fail, no pass in 3 days
- 6%
- Dangerous
- 1.5%
Lower fail rate: 11.5%, against 22.0% for the Citroen 2CV Classic, both built before 2000.
3,022 MOT tests on cars built before 2000
- 2
Vauxhall Nova
Same body type, tested at the same age
- Fail rate
- 15.2%
- Fail, no pass in 3 days
- 6.8%
- Dangerous
- 2.2%
Lower fail rate: 15.2%, against 22.0% for the Citroen 2CV Classic, both built before 2000.
1,003 MOT tests on cars built before 2000
- 3
Subaru Impreza
Same body type, tested at the same age
- Fail rate
- 19.9%
Lower fail rate: 19.9%, against 22.0% for the Citroen 2CV Classic, both built before 2000.
2 critical recall campaigns matching this model/build period.
2,760 MOT tests on cars built before 2000
- 4
Ford Escort
Same body type, tested at the same age
- Fail rate
- 16.8%
- Fail, no pass in 3 days
- 9.6%
- Dangerous
- 3.8%
Lower fail rate: 16.8%, against 22.0% for the Citroen 2CV Classic, both built before 2000.
10,088 MOT tests on cars built before 2000
- Fail rate
- = the share of MOT tests that ended in a fail. Retests count as tests.
- Fail, no pass in 3 days
- = the share of MOT tests that failed and still hadn't passed 3 days later. A fail that passed a retest within 3 days, even the same day, isn't counted.
- Dangerous
- = the share of MOT tests where the tester marked a fault as dangerous. It is against the law to drive the car until it is fixed.
Recall context
DVSA's recall list has no recalls filed under the Citroen 2CV name. For the exact car, check with the maker or GOV.UK's recall checker.
What has gone wrong on 2CV Classic cars built before 2000
The share of petrol cars that have ever failed an MOT on each part of the car. Based on 629 cars.
Rust, which the MOT calls corrosion: 44% of these cars show rust-related issues at this age.
Check the sills, subframe and brake pipes before you decide.
Classic variants compared
Most common issues on Citroen 2CV models of this age
This list covers every Citroen 2CV built before 2000, whichever generation it is. We don't have a defect list for the Classic on its own.
Most common advisories and fails
In order of the share of MOT tests that recorded each one
- 116.6%Advisory
Oil leak, but not excessive
- 28.4%Advisory
Suspension arm pin or bush worn, but not moving too much
- 36.3%Advisory
Exhaust has a minor leak
- 45.5%Advisory
Tyre slightly damaged, cracking or perishing
- 55.0%Advisory
Wheel bearing slightly noisy
Based on 3,009 tests
Looking at a Citroen 2CV Classic?
Enter its number plate to see its full MOT history, risk rating and running costs.
Frequently asked questions
Built before 2000 (over 25 years old), the Citroen 2CV Classic (1948-1990) fails MOTs noticeably less often than typical for this age. This is based on 2,996 25+ year old MOT tests from DVSA data. Each retest counts as a test.