Steering Checks Before Your MOT

The MOT test is a crucial annual check to ensure your vehicle is safe and roadworthy. While many owners rely on their garage to flag any issues, a little pre-MOT preparation can save you time, money, and potential disappointment. One of the most vital systems to inspect is your vehicle's steering. A properly functioning steering system is paramount for safe driving, and unsurprisingly, it's a key area that testers will scrutinise during the MOT.

But what exactly should you be looking for? Do you need to be a seasoned mechanic to spot potential problems? The good news is that with a bit of awareness and a few simple checks, you can identify common steering issues that could lead to an MOT failure. This guide will walk you through the essential steering checks you can perform yourself before booking your MOT, helping you to get your car through its test with confidence.

Why is Steering So Important for the MOT?

The steering system is directly responsible for your ability to control the vehicle. If it's not functioning correctly, it poses a significant risk to the driver, passengers, and other road users. During an MOT, the tester will be looking for several key aspects related to your steering:

• Precise Control: The steering should respond accurately to the driver's input. Excessive play or vagueness can indicate problems.
• No Binding or Stiffness: Turning the steering wheel should be smooth and effortless, without any juddering or resistance.
• No Excessive Play: There should be minimal free play in the steering wheel. Too much movement before the wheels start to turn is a definite fail.
• Condition of Components: All visible steering components, such as track rod ends, ball joints, and steering rack gaiters, must be in good condition, free from damage, corrosion, or leaks.
• Power Steering: If your vehicle has power steering, it must be present and functioning correctly, though the fluid level itself isn't a direct testable item unless it causes a safety issue.

Failing to meet these requirements can result in an MOT failure, meaning you'll need to get the necessary repairs done before you can legally drive your vehicle again.

Pre-MOT Steering Checks You Can Do at Home

While a professional mechanic will have specialised tools and a trained eye, there are several checks you can perform with your vehicle stationary and, if safe to do so, with a helper.

1. Steering Wheel Play (Free Play)

This is one of the most common reasons for steering-related MOT failures. Excessive free play means you can turn the steering wheel a significant amount before the road wheels start to move, making precise control difficult.

• How to Check: With the engine running and the wheels pointing straight ahead, grip the steering wheel firmly. Gently try to turn it left and right. You should feel immediate resistance and see the wheels respond almost instantly. If you can turn the wheel more than a couple of centimetres (roughly the width of your hand) before the wheels move, you have excessive play.
• What it Might Mean: This often points to wear in components like the steering column universal joints, the steering rack itself, or the steering box (in older vehicles).

2. Steering Wheel Resistance and Smoothness

The steering wheel should turn smoothly and with consistent resistance. Any stiffness, juddering, or unevenness is a cause for concern.

• How to Check: With the engine running, slowly turn the steering wheel from lock to lock (all the way left and then all the way right). Pay attention to how it feels. Does it feel stiff in certain positions? Does it judder? Do you hear any unusual noises like grinding or groaning?
• What it Might Mean: Stiffness can be caused by low power steering fluid, a failing power steering pump, or issues with the steering rack. Juddering or knocking noises might indicate worn ball joints or steering rack issues.

3. Tyre Wear

While not strictly part of the steering mechanism, uneven or excessive tyre wear is often a symptom of underlying steering or suspension problems.

• How to Check: Visually inspect all four tyres. Look for wear on the edges, in the centre, or in patches. If one side of the tyre is significantly more worn than the other, this is a strong indicator of an alignment issue, which is a steering-related problem.
• What it Might Mean: Uneven tyre wear can be caused by incorrect wheel alignment, worn suspension components, or incorrectly inflated tyres.

4. Steering Rack Gaiters (Dust Covers)

The steering rack is protected by flexible rubber gaiters (often called dust covers). These prevent dirt and water from entering the rack, which can cause significant damage.

• How to Check: Locate the flexible rubber boots at either end of the steering rack, where the track rods connect. Inspect them for any signs of cracking, splitting, tearing, or excessive grease leakage.
• What it Might Mean: Damaged gaiters allow contaminants into the steering rack, leading to premature wear and potential failure of the rack itself. This is a common MOT failure point.

5. Track Rod Ends and Ball Joints

These components connect the steering rack to the wheel hubs, allowing the wheels to turn. They are critical for steering precision and safety.

• How to Check: This is a bit trickier to check accurately without lifting the vehicle, but you can sometimes get an indication. With the engine off and wheels pointing straight, try to wobble the front wheels by pushing and pulling them from the top and bottom. Any significant knocking or looseness you can feel through the steering column might indicate worn ball joints. You can also try to wiggle the track rod ends by hand (again, with the engine off). Any noticeable play is a bad sign.
• What it Might Mean: Worn ball joints or track rod ends lead to imprecise steering, uneven tyre wear, and can become dangerously loose, potentially causing loss of steering control.

6. Power Steering Fluid (If Applicable)

While the fluid level itself isn't usually tested unless it's critically low and causing obvious issues, a leak can be a problem.

• How to Check: Locate your power steering fluid reservoir (check your car's manual if unsure). Ensure the fluid level is between the minimum and maximum marks. Also, look underneath the car for any signs of fluid leaks around the power steering pump, hoses, or the steering rack itself.
• What it Might Mean: Low fluid levels can cause stiff or noisy steering. Leaks indicate a problem with the power steering system that needs addressing.

Common Steering Failures and What They Mean

Understanding the common reasons for steering-related MOT failures can help you focus your checks.

When to Seek Professional Help

If you've performed these checks and are unsure about what you're feeling or seeing, or if you suspect a problem, it's always best to consult a qualified mechanic. They have the equipment and expertise to diagnose issues accurately and carry out the necessary repairs.

For example, accurately checking ball joints and track rod ends often requires the vehicle to be lifted, and a specific amount of force applied to detect play. Similarly, diagnosing intermittent steering problems or noises requires a trained ear and experience.

Conclusion: Proactive Checks for MOT Success

Taking a few minutes to check your vehicle's steering system before its MOT can make a significant difference. By identifying and addressing potential issues early, you not only increase your chances of passing the MOT test but also ensure your vehicle remains safe and reliable on the road. Remember, a well-maintained steering system is fundamental to a positive and secure driving experience. Don't leave it to chance; give your steering the attention it deserves!

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