Volkswagen Bora Sport TDI (2001)

106 real MOT outcomes analysed • 28.4% first-time pass rate

2001 Volkswagen Bora Sport TDI

CarHunch analysed 106 real MOT records for the 2001 Volkswagen Bora Sport TDI. This breakdown of actual test outcomes — pass rates, defect profiles, mileage data — isn't published anywhere else.

This 2001 Bora Sport TDI is a significant reliability concern: only 28.4% pass on first attempt, less than a third of the UK average of 80%, and the median CarHunch score of 30 reflects a genuinely troublesome picture for a vehicle now over 20 years old. There are no dangerous defects recorded, which is the one bright spot, but the structural weakness in pass rates signals systemic problems.

The median mileage of 173,108 is reasonable for the age, yet these vehicles are still racking up 0.39 failures per test—predominantly mechanical rather than advisory issues—suggesting wear and degradation beyond what normal age alone would explain. If you're considering buying one, budget for immediate pre-purchase inspection by a diesel specialist and expect repair costs; these cars need serious vetting before commitment.

Below average reliability 51.6% below UK average
28.4%
pass MOT first time
UK average: ~80%
173,108
typical mileage
154,184–207,821 middle half
0%
ever had a dangerous defect
recorded at any MOT
0.39
avg MOT failures per car
over 1.7 tests on record

What to check before buying a 2001 Volkswagen Bora Sport TDI

Practical pre-purchase checks for this age and model.

  • 📋 Check the full MOT history. Look for recurring advisories — slow-building issues like corrosion or brake wear patterns show up years before they become failures. Enter the reg below for a full AI analysis.
  • 🔍 Inspect for corrosion in person. Brake pipes, sills, subframes, and chassis legs. Surface rust is normal at this age; structural rust is a serious problem that's expensive to fix and can fail an MOT.
  • 🛞 Check tyres and brakes. The most common advisory items at this age. Budget for replacement if they're near the limit — factor this into your offer price.
  • 📄 Run an HPI check. The MOT history won't show outstanding finance, insurance write-offs, or stolen status — an HPI check will.

Before you buy a Volkswagen Bora Sport TDI

MOT history is one piece of the puzzle. These checks can reveal what CarHunch can't.

Inspection ClickMechanic Have a qualified mechanic check this car before you commit to buying

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Mileage Distribution

Most 2001 Volkswagen Bora Sport TDI vehicles sit in the blue band. If the car you're looking at is outside it, it's either unusually low or high mileage for its age.

154,184
low mileage
173,108
typical
207,821
high mileage

Half of all 2001 Volkswagen Bora Sport TDI vehicles fall between 154,184 and 207,821 miles.

MOT History Averages

1.7
Avg MOT tests per vehicle
0.39
Avg failures per vehicle
0
Avg advisories per vehicle

Found a specific Volkswagen Bora Sport TDI?

Enter the reg to see its individual MOT history, AI Hunches, and how it compares to this cohort.

UK