Currently, by law in the UK any new car over three years old is required to have a a valid MOT certificate. (Some older cars are exempt from this). You can check the MOT status of a vehicle on the GOV website.
To ensure your car is ready for it’s test, below are the top eight most commons reasons a car fails when it comes to an MOT.
I never knew it could fail on something so simple!
Miss Smith
Top 8 most common reasons a car fails an MOT
The MOT test is an annual check that cars over 3 years old in the UK must undergo to ensure they are safe to drive. The test covers a wide range of areas but If your car fails its MOT you will need to have the necessary repairs carried out before it can be re-tested.
1. Lights and signalling
Always check your bulbs before your MOT. The most common MOT fail is for problems with the car’s lights and signalling. This can include things as:
- Blown bulbs
- Cracked headlights
- Faulty indicators
- Numberplate lights
Top tip: never rely on the dashboard warning system, you might still have a light out. Especially if you have LED lamps.
2. Exhaust
The exhaust system is another common cause of MOT fails. This can be due to problems with the exhaust pipes, catalytic converter, or DPF ( Diesel Particulate Filter).
3. Tyres
Many cars fail due to worn tyres. This can be due to problems with the tyres’ tread depth, pressure, or condition. Be ever vigilant when it comes to your tyres health.
Top tip: Do a visual check of your tyres, can you see any areas that are smooth and appear to lack much tread? Check your front wheels when they are turned, so you can see more of your tyre. You can also invest in a tread depth gauge.
4. Brakes
The brakes are an essential part of your car’s safety system, so it’s important to make sure they are in good working order. Brakes are tested in several ways – visually and using equipment to test the output and brake efficiency.
If you suspect there is a problem with your brakes, get them checked before your MOT.
5. Suspension
The suspension system is an important for your car’s safety as well as creating comfort to the driver and passengers. Fail items are often unseen and can be expensive.
Many suspension issues may show themselves as a form of unusual noise, especially when driving over uneven surfaces. You may also notice difference in your car when it is parked (often referred to as ride height).
6. Driver’s view of the road
This covers the area of visibility that you should be able to see when in the driving seat. This covers both the front and back of the vehicle.
- Damaged windscreen within “zone A” which is directly above your steering wheel
- Damaged or heavily deteriorated mirrors
- Wipers and washers not working as intended
If you have an item such as a Sat Nav obscuring your view, this can be removed as part of the MOT.
7. Emissions
Your car’s emissions should fall within a certain range, this is dependant on the model, age and type of car you drive. This is a difficult one to prepare for, but if you are seeing black or blue smoke coming from your exhaust then this could be a clue to an MOT failure.
8. Steering
There isn’t a lot to a steering system in a car, which means that any damage is highly likely to lead to a failure. If your steering feels loose when driving or in park, this could be a clue that it needs to be checked.
Currently in the UK, there are garages that offer a “Fail and it’s free” approach to testing. Whilst this might seem a good (and cheap) way to see if your car is in a good state to pass, it can also lead to unnecessary and costly repairs. If you use one of these services do not be afraid to go elsewhere for a second opinion. You do not need to have the work carried out by them.
To be in the best position for your MOT, it is important to check the basics and ensure your car seems in good condition. A qualified mechanic will be able to do a pre-MOT check.
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