Why there are large disparities in ‘contrôle technique’ success rates in different regions of France

Cars in western France are almost three times as likely to fail their roadworthiness inspection as those in parts of the Paris region, with vehicle age, maintenance and even the weather among the possible explanations.

Almost one in five vehicles failed their contrôle technique in France in 2025, but new figures reveal substantial differences between departments.

The national failure rate was 19.30%, according to official data from the Organisme technique central (OTC), which oversees the inspection system. 18.92% of private cars and 22.39% of light commercial vehicles.

Of approximately 27.6 million inspections carried out at 6,784 approved centres, some 4.4 million vehicles were found to require a follow-up inspection (contre-visite).

Western departments have highest failure rates

An analysis of OTC figures by car parts distributor Winparts, reported by 20 Minutes, found that the highest failure rates for private cars were concentrated in western France.

Ille-et-Vilaine (Brittany) recorded the highest rate at 27.64%, followed by Loire-Atlantique (26.75%) and Maine-et-Loire (25.68%), both in Pays de la Loire.

By contrast, the seven departments with the lowest failure rates were all in Île-de-France.

Val-d'Oise recorded just 9.77%, followed by Seine-Saint-Denis at 10.46%.

What explains the differences?

Vehicle age is a significant factor. Around 80% of vehicles failing their inspection are more than ten years old, while the Paris region has a comparatively younger vehicle fleet.

Higher numbers of company vehicles, electric cars and hybrids, alongside more frequent vehicle replacement, may contribute to its lower failure rates.

Access to maintenance is another possible explanation. The greater concentration of garages and repair workshops in urban areas makes it easier for motorists to have faults corrected before an inspection.

Rural motorists may have fewer opportunities for regular maintenance, while older vehicles are more common outside major cities.

Climate could also play a role. Prolonged exposure to humidity and sea salt accelerates corrosion, potentially contributing to higher failure rates in coastal areas such as Brittany and Pays de la Loire.

What happens if a vehicle fails?

The contrôle technique is compulsory every two years for most cars more than four years old.

Vehicles with major defects must undergo repairs and a follow-up inspection within two months. If a critical defect is found, then the vehicle can only be driven until the end of that day - or until the defect is repaired.

Drivers can reduce the risk of failure by checking tyres, lights and other basic safety equipment before their appointment.