Cracked Wing Mirror & MOT: Pass or Fail?

When preparing your vehicle for its annual MOT test, every detail counts, and the condition of your wing mirrors is no exception. A common concern for many drivers is whether a cracked wing mirror will automatically result in an MOT failure. The answer, as with many aspects of vehicle inspections, isn't always a simple 'yes' or 'no' and often depends on the severity, location, and nature of the damage, as well as the specific type of mirror in question. Understanding the nuances of the regulations is key to avoiding an unwelcome surprise at the test centre.

The MOT test is a crucial annual inspection designed to ensure that vehicles on UK roads meet minimum safety and environmental standards. It's not merely about aesthetics; it's about roadworthiness. Components like mirrors are scrutinised because they play a vital role in a driver's ability to safely navigate traffic, change lanes, and manoeuvre, particularly in complex urban environments or on high-speed motorways. Any compromise to a mirror's functionality can significantly impair a driver's visibility, thereby increasing the risk of accidents.

The Legal Standpoint: DVSA Guidelines on Mirrors

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) provides comprehensive guidelines for MOT testers, outlining the standards vehicles must meet. For mirrors, the primary concern revolves around their presence, condition, and the clear view they provide to the driver. Vehicles first used on or after 1st August 1978 must be fitted with at least two mirrors, one of which must be on the offside (driver's side). Vehicles first used before this date must have at least one mirror providing an adequate view to the rear. For most modern vehicles, this typically means a driver's side wing mirror, a passenger's side wing mirror, and an interior rearview mirror.

Regarding damage, the DVSA manual states that a mirror will fail if it is: missing; insecure; so damaged or discoloured that it significantly impairs the driver’s view to the rear; or if it does not provide an adequate view to the rear. This last point is particularly critical for cracked mirrors. If the crack obscures a significant portion of the reflective surface, or distorts the reflection to such an extent that it makes judging distances or identifying hazards difficult, it will almost certainly lead to a failure. A small chip or minor crack at the very edge of the mirror, not impacting the primary field of view, might pass, but this is at the discretion of the individual MOT tester.

Wing Mirrors vs. Door Mirrors: Does Construction Matter?

The distinction you raised between 'wing mirrors' (often referring to older designs where the mirror was literally on the wing) and 'door mirrors' (the more common modern type integrated into the door) is an interesting one, especially concerning how they are constructed. Your observation about glass bits getting loose on older 'wing' mirrors due to spring retention is spot on. If the reflective surface is not securely held, or if pieces of glass are detaching, this immediately presents a security risk and will undoubtedly be an MOT failure. Loose or falling glass poses a danger to the driver, passengers, and other road users.

Modern door mirrors, as you suggested, often have the glass bonded directly to a backing plate or the mirror assembly itself. This construction means that even if the glass cracks, it often remains largely intact and securely attached, preventing loose shards. While this construction might prevent immediate disintegration, a crack in a bonded mirror still presents a significant issue if it impairs the driver's view. A spiderweb crack across the entire surface, for instance, would distort the image, making it difficult to ascertain critical information about surrounding traffic. The key factor for the MOT remains the clarity and adequacy of the view provided to the driver, regardless of how the glass is held.

Types of Damage and Their MOT Implications

Not all damage is created equal when it comes to the MOT. Here's a breakdown:

• Small Chip/Minor Edge Crack: If it's very small, at the very periphery, and doesn't impede the main field of vision, it might be acceptable. However, any crack has the potential to spread.
• Crack Obscuring View: A crack that runs across the centre of the mirror, or significantly distorts the reflection, will almost certainly be a failure. This includes "spiderweb" cracks that make the reflected image blurry or fragmented.
• Loose or Missing Glass: As discussed, if parts of the mirror glass are loose, rattling, or missing entirely, it's an immediate failure due to safety concerns and inadequate view. This is a primary concern for the DVSA testers.
• Discolouration/Degradation: If the reflective coating has degraded or discoloured, making the mirror cloudy or significantly reducing its effectiveness, it will fail.
• Insecure Casing: Even if the mirror glass is fine, if the entire mirror assembly (casing, arm, etc.) is loose, broken, or not securely attached to the vehicle, it will also be an MOT failure. The mirror must be stable and maintain its position during driving.

Ultimately, the MOT tester's assessment boils down to whether the mirror provides an adequate, clear, and secure view for the driver to operate the vehicle safely. If there's any doubt about the mirror's ability to fulfil this fundamental role, it's prudent to assume it will fail.

The Importance of All Mirrors

While external wing/door mirrors are often the focus due to their exposure to damage, it's worth remembering the interior rearview mirror. This mirror is also subject to MOT scrutiny. If it's missing, insecure, or so damaged that it impairs the driver's view to the rear, it can also lead to an MOT failure. The combined functionality of all required mirrors ensures comprehensive rearward visibility, which is a cornerstone of road safety.

What Happens if Your Mirror Fails the MOT?

If your vehicle fails the MOT due to a cracked or damaged mirror, you will receive a 'Refusal of an MOT Test Certificate'. This means your vehicle is not roadworthy according to the test standards. You will then need to get the mirror repaired or replaced. Depending on the type of repair and how quickly you rectify the issue, you might be eligible for a free re-test if the vehicle is presented for re-examination within a certain timeframe (usually 10 working days) at the same test centre. However, if you drive a vehicle that has failed its MOT and has dangerous defects, you could face a fine of up to £2,500, points on your licence, or even a driving ban.

Preventative Measures and Proactive Maintenance

To avoid the stress and expense of an MOT failure due to mirror damage, consider these preventative tips:

• Park Carefully: Always fold in electric mirrors when parking in tight spaces or on narrow streets to reduce the risk of accidental knocks.
• Regular Checks: Periodically inspect your mirrors for any signs of cracks, chips, or looseness. Early detection can prevent minor issues from becoming major ones.
• Clean Gently: When cleaning your mirrors, use soft cloths and appropriate cleaning solutions. Avoid abrasive materials that could scratch the surface.
• Address Damage Promptly: Don't delay in addressing even minor mirror damage. A small chip can quickly turn into a spreading crack, especially with temperature fluctuations or vibrations.

Summary of Mirror Damage and MOT Outcome

To provide a clear overview, here's a table summarising common mirror issues and their likely MOT outcome:

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use tape to fix a cracked mirror for the MOT?
A: No, using tape or any temporary adhesive to hold a cracked mirror together is highly unlikely to pass the MOT. The repair must be secure, permanent, and not impair the view. It also won't address any distortion caused by the crack itself.

Q: Does a small chip on the edge of the mirror count as an MOT failure?
A: A very small chip on the extreme edge that doesn't affect the main viewing area might be acceptable, but it's at the tester's discretion. Any chip has the potential to spread, so it's always best to get it professionally repaired or replaced.

Q: My passenger side mirror is cracked, but the driver's side is fine. Will it still fail?
A: Yes, for most modern vehicles, both external mirrors (driver's and passenger's side) are required and must meet the necessary standards. Damage to either can lead to an MOT failure.

Q: How much does it cost to replace a wing mirror?
A: The cost can vary significantly depending on your car's make and model. Basic manual mirrors can be relatively inexpensive, while electric, heated, or auto-folding mirrors with integrated indicators can be considerably more expensive, ranging from £50 to several hundred pounds, plus fitting costs.

Q: Is the interior rearview mirror also checked during the MOT?
A: Yes, the interior rearview mirror is also part of the MOT test. It must be present, secure, and provide an adequate view to the rear. Damage that impairs its function will result in a failure.

In conclusion, while a minor chip on the very edge of your wing mirror might be overlooked, any crack that significantly impairs your field of vision, compromises the mirror's security, or causes distortion will almost certainly lead to an MOT failure. Given the critical role mirrors play in road safety, it's always advisable to address any damage promptly and ensure your mirrors provide a clear, unobstructed, and stable view before your vehicle undergoes its annual MOT test.

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