Avoid MOT Failures: Essential Checks

The annual MOT test is a crucial part of vehicle ownership in the UK, designed to ensure your car meets road safety and environmental standards. However, a significant number of drivers find themselves failing this essential inspection, often due to issues that could have been easily rectified with some basic pre-test checks. Research indicates that over a third of drivers fail their MOT not because of major mechanical faults, but due to a lack of attention to simple maintenance. This means millions of pounds are spent annually on re-tests and repairs that could have been avoided with a little foresight.

Common Culprits Behind MOT Failures

Understanding the most frequent reasons for MOT failure is the first step towards a successful test. While some issues, like worn-out brakes, require professional attention, many others are surprisingly simple to address. The DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) data reveals that a substantial portion of failures are preventable. Let's delve into the most common offenders:

1. Lighting Issues: A Bright Spot for Failure

Lighting problems are consistently among the top reasons for MOT failure. This category encompasses a range of issues, from faulty bulbs to incorrect headlight alignment. In 2017 alone, almost a million vehicles failed their MOT for having an incorrect headlamp aim. This is a critical safety feature; headlights that are too high can dazzle oncoming drivers, while those that are too low reduce visibility for the driver. Beyond headlights, broken registration plate lamps and defective side lights also contribute significantly to test failures. Ensuring all your lights – indicators, brake lights, fog lights, reverse lights, and number plate lights – are working correctly and are properly aimed can prevent a failed test and potentially save lives.

2. Braking System Concerns

The braking system is, understandably, a paramount component of vehicle safety. Poor brake performance and broken brake lights are consistently high on the list of failure reasons. This doesn't always mean a complete failure of the braking system; it can be due to worn brake pads, discs, or even issues with the brake fluid level or condition. Regular inspection and maintenance of your brakes are vital. Even a seemingly minor issue like a burnt-out brake light bulb can lead to a failed MOT.

3. Tyre Tread and Condition

Tyres are your car's only contact with the road, making their condition critically important. Insufficient tyre tread is a major cause of MOT failure. The legal minimum tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre's breadth. Driving with less than this not only risks a failed MOT but also severely compromises your car's grip, especially in wet conditions. Furthermore, tyres can fail due to damage, such as cuts or bulges, or if they are showing signs of perishing (cracking) due to age. Regular checks for wear, damage, and adequate tread depth are essential.

4. Worn Windscreen Wipers and Washer Fluid

Visibility is key to safe driving, and your windscreen wipers and washer system play a vital role. Worn-out windscreen wipers can smear water across the screen, significantly impairing visibility, especially during rain. Similarly, a lack of windscreen washer fluid means you can't clear dirt or grime from your windscreen, which can be a safety hazard. These are simple, inexpensive fixes that can prevent a test failure.

5. Other Common Failures

While the above are the most prevalent, several other issues can lead to a failed MOT:

• Broken or corroded coil springs: These are part of your suspension system and are crucial for maintaining tyre contact with the road and for ride comfort.
• Headlights not working: This covers a broader range than just aim, including complete failure of the bulbs.
• Chassis corrosion: Significant rust on the car's structure can compromise its integrity and lead to failure.
• Exhaust emissions: Your car must meet specific emissions standards, which can be affected by engine condition and catalytic converter performance.

The Cost of Failure

Failing an MOT doesn't just mean a failed test certificate; it often comes with a significant financial penalty. The average cost to repair a vehicle after an MOT failure can be substantial, with many drivers reporting bills of over £300. This cost, coupled with the inconvenience of not being able to legally drive your car until it passes, highlights the importance of proactive maintenance. As the research suggests, a significant portion of these costs could be saved by performing simple checks beforehand.

Pre-MOT Checks: Your DIY Guide

To maximise your chances of passing your MOT first time, consider performing these simple checks yourself:

Expert Advice for a Smooth MOT

Daniel Powell, Managing Editor of HonestJohn.co.uk, emphasises the importance of proactive checks: "Britain’s roads are among the safest in Europe, but some drivers are putting themselves and others at risk by failing to perform even the most basic of car maintenance tasks." He further notes, "The MoT Files shows that the majority of failure items are down to the owner, rather than an inherent fault with the car. Drivers can now use this information to ensure their car is not failing on something that can be easily and cheaply fixed beforehand." This advice underscores that many MOT failures are not due to complex mechanical issues but rather simple oversights that owners can easily rectify.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I check my headlight aim myself?
While precise alignment often requires specific equipment, you can get a rough idea. Park on a level surface facing a wall. When your headlights are on low beam, the top of the main beam should fall on or just below the horizontal line from the headlight centre. If they appear significantly too high or too low, it's best to have them professionally adjusted.

Q2: How do I know if my brakes are performing poorly?
Signs of poor brake performance include a spongy brake pedal, the car pulling to one side when braking, unusual noises (grinding or squealing), or the ABS warning light illuminating on your dashboard. If you notice any of these, get your brakes checked immediately.

Q3: What is the legal limit for tyre tread depth?
The legal minimum tread depth for car tyres in the UK is 1.6 millimetres across the central three-quarters of the tyre's breadth.

Q4: What if my car fails its MOT?
If your car fails its MOT, the test centre will provide a refusal of an MOT test certificate outlining the reasons for failure. You can have the necessary repairs carried out and then present the vehicle for a partial re-test. In most cases, you can continue to drive your vehicle if the existing MOT certificate is still valid, but only if the faults are not so severe that they make the car unsafe to drive. However, if the car is deemed dangerous, you will not be allowed to drive it.

Q5: How often should I check my car's lights?
It's good practice to check your lights weekly, perhaps when you're checking your tyre pressures or cleaning your car. Having a friend help you check brake and indicator lights is the easiest method.

By taking a proactive approach and conducting these simple checks, UK motorists can significantly increase their chances of passing their MOT test, saving money, time, and ensuring their vehicle is safe for themselves and other road users.