Ford Cortina Mk3 (1970-1975) reliability
Ford Cortina Mk3 built before 2000: not enough MOT data yet
We've only seen a handful of Ford Cortina Mk3 models built before 2000 so far. Too few to spot a pattern yet.
Looking at a Ford Cortina Mk3?
Enter its number plate to see its full MOT history, risk rating and running costs.
Key figure
Check a car’s number plate to see its own MOT record, or come back when there’s more MOT history.
Based on 184 tests of Cortina models registered 1970-1975.
Mk3 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 Cortina Mk3 compares
At each age below, see how the Cortina Mk3 holds up against other cars the same age. The averages combine all fuel types.
Based on 31,207 tests across 14 Ford 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.
Underbody / chassis corrosion
High priorityGet the car on a ramp or jack point and inspect sills, subframe mounts, and rear suspension mounting points.
Suspension bushes and joints
Worth checkingListen for knocks over speed bumps and ask about recent control-arm or anti-roll-bar work.
Leaks
Worth checkingInspect the leaks carefully and ask the seller for repair history.
Axles & Wheels
Worth checkingInspect the axles & wheels carefully and ask the seller for repair history.
Suspension
Worth checkingInspect the suspension carefully and ask the seller for repair history.
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 saloons to compare
Other saloons, with each one's figures taken at the same age as the Cortina Mk3.
- 1
Saab 9-3
Same body type, tested at the same age
- Fail rate
- 26.9%
No clear edge over the Ford Cortina Mk3 on these figures.
Some figures could not be compared for these two cars. So this comparison uses the fail rate and recalls only.
1,327 MOT tests on cars built before 2000
- 2
BMW 3 Series
Same body type, tested at the same age
- Fail rate
- 22.8%
- Still registered at 10 years
- 89.8%
No clear edge over the Ford Cortina Mk3 on these figures.
15 critical recall campaigns matching this model/build period.
17,892 MOT tests on cars built before 2000
- 3
BMW 5 Series
Same body type, tested at the same age
- Fail rate
- 25.8%
- Still registered at 10 years
- 82.6%
No clear edge over the Ford Cortina Mk3 on these figures.
12 critical recall campaigns matching this model/build period.
4,939 MOT tests on cars built before 2000
- 4
Jaguar XJ
Same body type, tested at the same age
- Fail rate
- 21.2%
- Still registered at 10 years
- 93.8%
No clear edge over the Ford Cortina Mk3 on these figures.
5 critical recall campaigns matching this model/build period.
4,238 MOT tests on cars built before 2000
- Fail rate
- = the share of MOT tests that ended in a fail. Retests count as tests.
- Still registered at 10 years
- = the share of cars still registered (taxed or declared off the road) 10 years after they were first registered.
Recall context
DVSA's recall list has no recalls filed under the Ford Cortina name. For the exact car, check with the maker or GOV.UK's recall checker.
What has gone wrong on Cortina Mk3 cars built before 2000
The share of petrol cars that have ever failed an MOT on each part of the car. Based on 591 cars.
Rust, which the MOT calls corrosion: 24% of these cars show rust-related issues at this age.
Check the sills, subframe and brake pipes before you decide.
Most common issues on Ford Cortinas of this age
This list covers every Ford Cortina built before 2000, whichever generation it is. We don't have a defect list for the Mk3 on its own.
Most common advisories and fails
In order of the share of MOT tests that recorded each one
- 15.5%Advisory
Oil leak, but not excessive
- 25.0%Advisory
Suspension arm pin or bush worn, but not moving too much
- 33.0%Advisory
Exhaust has a minor leak
- 42.5%Advisory
Brake binding slightly
- 52.4%Advisory
Wheel bearing has slight play
Based on 679 tests
Looking at a Ford Cortina Mk3?
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 Ford Cortina Mk3 (1970-1975) fails MOTs noticeably less often than typical for this age. This is based on 184 25+ year old MOT tests from DVSA data. Each retest counts as a test.