Pre-MOT Steering Checks: Your Essential Guide

Ensuring your vehicle's steering system is in top condition is paramount, not just for passing its annual MOT test, but more importantly, for your safety and the safety of other road users. The steering system is your direct link to controlling the vehicle, dictating its direction and responsiveness. A well-maintained steering system provides precise control, comfortable driving, and peace of mind. Conversely, even minor defects can lead to significant handling issues, making the vehicle unpredictable and dangerous.

While the MOT test for steering remains fundamentally consistent, there are subtle nuances in how testers assess components. For the average motorist, however, understanding the key areas of inspection allows for effective pre-MOT checks, potentially saving time, money, and the hassle of a re-test. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about preparing your steering for its MOT, from what testers scrutinise to the common defects that lead to failure.

Why Pre-MOT Steering Checks Are Crucial

The MOT (Ministry of Transport) test is designed to ensure that vehicles on UK roads meet minimum safety and environmental standards. Steering, being a critical safety system, is thoroughly examined. Identifying potential issues before your test appointment offers several significant advantages. Firstly, it allows you to address minor problems before they escalate into more serious, and potentially more expensive, repairs. Secondly, it drastically increases your chances of a first-time pass, avoiding the inconvenience and cost of a re-test. Most importantly, it contributes directly to road safety, ensuring your vehicle is safe to drive.

Understanding the MOT Steering Test: What Testers Look For

MOT testers follow a strict protocol when assessing your vehicle's steering. Their examination is meticulous, covering everything from the steering wheel itself to the furthest reaches of the steering linkage. They are looking for excessive wear, damage, security issues, and any modifications that compromise safety. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the areas they scrutinise:

Under Bonnet Checks

While accessibility varies between vehicle makes and models, certain steering components are often visible and checked from under the bonnet. These initial visual inspections can reveal significant issues early on:

• Security of the Steering Rack or Steering Box and its Mountings: The steering rack or box is the heart of your steering system. Testers will check that it is securely fastened to the vehicle's chassis. Loose mountings can lead to excessive play, unpredictable steering, and a dangerous lack of control. They will look for any signs of movement or looseness in the bolts and mounting points.
• Play in Steering Joints: Various joints connect the steering column to the steering rack/box and then to the wheels. Testers will look for any discernible play, which indicates wear. Excessive play means a delay or inaccuracy in the steering response, making precise control difficult.
• Inspection of Other Swivel Joints: Any other swivel joints that are part of the steering system and can be readily inspected from under the bonnet will be checked for condition and play.

Under Vehicle Checks

A significant portion of the steering test occurs with the vehicle on a ramp or pit, allowing the tester to inspect components under load and from various angles:

• All Steering Joints Under Load: A critical part of the under-vehicle inspection involves checking all steering joints whilst the steering is loaded. This is often done by turning the steering wheel from side to side or by using specialised approved wheel play detectors. Loading the steering reveals play that might not be apparent under static conditions.
• Power Steering Systems: If your vehicle has power steering, it will be checked with the engine running. This allows the tester to assess the system's operation, including the pump, hoses, and fluid levels, ensuring it provides adequate assistance and operates smoothly.
• Security of Attachment of Steering Rack or Steering Box: Beyond the initial under-bonnet check, the security of the steering rack or steering box is thoroughly re-examined from beneath. This includes checking the tightness of all nuts and bolts. Crucially, testers also look for any structural cracking or corrosion of the vehicle chassis where the steering gear is attached. This is vital, as a weakened mounting point can lead to catastrophic failure.
• Wheel Lock-to-Lock Operation: With the vehicle on special swivel plates, the wheels are turned from lock to lock. The tester checks for smoothness of operation, ensuring there's no stiffness or binding. They also verify that the wheels and tyres do not foul (make contact with) either the vehicle's structure or any brake pipes or hoses throughout the full range of steering motion. Any fouling can lead to damage, tyre wear, or compromised braking.
• Wheel Bearings: With the wheels jacked up, the wheel bearings are checked for excessive play. Worn wheel bearings can affect steering stability and can sometimes be mistaken for steering component play.
• Steering Rack Gaiters and Front Outer Constant Velocity (CV) Joint Boots: These protective rubber covers prevent dirt, water, and debris from entering critical steering and drive train components. Testers examine them for tears, damage, or deterioration. A compromised gaiter or boot can lead to rapid wear of the internal components, resulting in costly repairs and potential steering failure.
• Bushes, Split Pins, Locking Nuts, and Retaining Devices: All metal and/or rubber bushes, split pins, locking nuts, and other locking or retaining devices related to steering components are meticulously checked for condition, security, and presence. These small but vital components ensure the integrity and proper function of the steering system.
• Rear Wheel Steering: On vehicles equipped with rear-wheel steering, this system is also thoroughly checked from beneath the car for correct operation and component integrity.

Steering Wheel and Column Inspection

The steering wheel and column are also subject to rigorous checks:

• Steering Wheel Condition and Security: The steering wheel must be securely attached to the steering shaft. Testers look for any relative movement between the wheel and the column, which could indicate looseness or a risk of detachment. Fractured or loose steering wheel rims or spokes are also grounds for failure.
• Steering Column Bearings and Play: The upper bearings of the steering column are inspected for wear, and the steering shaft is checked for excessive end float. Any excessive radial movement between the top of the steering column and the shaft indicates a worn top bearing.
• Flexible Couplings and Universal Joints: Testers check for play and the overall condition of flexible couplings or universal joints within the steering column. Excessive deterioration of these components can lead to compromised steering.
• Clamping Bolts, Split Pins, and Locking Nuts: The security of clamping bolts, presence of split pins, and condition of locking nuts on the steering column are all verified.

Steering Play Assessment

One of the most fundamental checks for steering involves assessing 'free play'. The tester sits in the car, turns the steering wheel, and observes how far it turns before the road wheels begin to respond. While some minimal play is inherent to certain steering mechanisms, excessive free play measured at the rim of the steering wheel (taking into account the vehicle's construction and steering wheel size) will result in a Major or even Dangerous defect if it affects safe steering.

Electronic Power Steering (EPS) Considerations

Modern vehicles often feature Electronic Power Steering. If EPS is an optional fitment but has been disconnected, the vehicle will only fail if the steering is adversely affected, which may necessitate a road test. Similarly, for vehicles with manually switched electronic park assist, if the power assistance isn't working, it's a fail only if steering is adversely affected. For advanced 'fly by wire' steering systems, the tester will verify that the steered wheels are pointing straight ahead when the steering wheel is in the straight-ahead position.

Common Steering Defects and Their MOT Categories

Understanding the categories of defects can help you prioritise repairs. Defects are typically categorised as Minor, Major, or Dangerous, with Major and Dangerous leading to an MOT failure.

Steering Gear Condition

Issues here relate directly to the main steering mechanism:

• Excessive roughness in operation: This could indicate internal wear or lack of lubrication, making steering difficult and unpredictable. (Major)
• Sector shaft issues (twisted, excessively worn, or affecting functionality): The sector shaft is a critical component. Any significant twisting or wear can severely compromise steering, potentially leading to a complete loss of control. (Major/Dangerous)
• Steering box leaking oil: Minor leaks are an advisory, but if oil is dripping, it’s a Major defect, indicating a more significant seal failure and potential loss of steering fluid.

Steering Gear Security

This covers how well the steering gear is attached to the vehicle:

• Casing not properly attached or retaining devices dangerously loose: The steering gear must be firmly fixed. Any looseness or visible relative movement to the chassis/bodywork is extremely hazardous. (Major/Dangerous)
• Fixing holes in chassis elongated or attachment seriously affected: Elongated holes mean the mounting bolts are no longer secure, threatening the integrity of the steering system. (Major/Dangerous)
• Fixing bolts missing or ineffective: Without secure bolts, the steering gear can detach. (Major/Dangerous)
• Casing fractured: A fractured casing compromises the structural integrity of the steering gear itself. (Major/Dangerous)
• Weakened load-bearing structure within 30cm of mounting: Any significant reduction in strength or inadequate repair in the 'prescribed area' around a steering component mounting is a serious concern, as it directly impacts the stability and security of the steering. (Major/Dangerous)

Steering Linkage Condition

The linkage connects the steering gear to the wheels:

• Relative movement between components or excessive movement/likely to detach: Components that should be fixed must not move relative to each other. Excessive play or risk of detachment is extremely dangerous. (Major/Dangerous)
• Steering ball joint with excessive wear or serious risk of detachment: Ball joints are crucial pivot points. Excessive wear or play means the wheel's direction cannot be precisely controlled, and detachment is catastrophic. (Major/Dangerous)
• Fractured or deformed component (affecting steering): A damaged linkage component directly compromises steering function. (Major/Dangerous)
• Retaining or locking device missing or ineffective: These devices prevent components from separating. Their absence or failure is a critical defect. (Major)
• Track rod or drag link ends seriously misaligned: Incorrect alignment affects steering geometry and control. (Major)
• Unsafe modification (affecting steering): Any modification that compromises the original design safety of the steering linkage. (Major/Dangerous)
• Steering rack gaiter or ball joint dust cover damaged/missing: While a minor defect if merely damaged, if it no longer prevents ingress of dirt, it becomes Major as it will lead to rapid wear of internal components.

Steering Linkage Operation

This section addresses how the linkage moves:

• Steering linkage fouling any part of the vehicle: If the linkage makes contact with other parts of the vehicle during steering, it can cause damage, restrict movement, or impede control. (Major)
• Steering lock-stop missing or incorrectly adjusted: Lock-stops prevent excessive turning of the wheels, protecting components. If fitted as standard, a missing or misadjusted one is a Major defect.

Power Steering

Defects in power steering can significantly impact driver effort and safety:

• Fluid leaking or system malfunctioning: Any leak or malfunction indicates a problem that affects the system's ability to assist steering. (Major)
• Fluid level below minimum or reservoir empty: Low fluid means the system isn't operating effectively. An empty reservoir indicates a significant leak, which is also a Major failure. (Minor/Major)
• Inoperative power steering (especially if steering adversely affected): If the power assistance isn't working, steering becomes much heavier. If this adversely affects the vehicle's control, it's a Dangerous defect. (Major/Dangerous)
• Component fractured or insecure (especially if steering adversely affected): Any physical damage or looseness in a power steering component. (Major/Dangerous)
• Fouling or misaligned component (especially if steering adversely affected): Similar to linkage fouling, but specific to power steering components. (Major/Dangerous)
• Unsafe modification (especially if steering adversely affected): Any non-standard modification that compromises safety. (Major/Dangerous)
• Pipe, hose, or wiring excessively damaged or corroded (especially if steering adversely affected): Damage to these can lead to leaks or electrical failure of the system. (Major/Dangerous)

Steering Wheel and Column

Problems here directly affect the driver's interface with the steering system:

• Relative movement between steering wheel and column indicating looseness or serious risk of detachment: This is a direct safety hazard, as the wheel could come off. (Major/Dangerous)
• Steering wheel retaining device missing or likely to become detached: Similar to the above, this is a critical safety issue. (Major/Dangerous)
• Steering wheel rim or spokes fractured or loose/likely to become detached: A damaged wheel can make it impossible to grip and control the vehicle. (Major/Dangerous)

Steering Column

Issues with the column itself:

• Excessive movement of centre of steering wheel up or down: Indicates wear in column bearings or mountings. (Major)
• Excessive radial movement between top of column and shaft (worn top bearing): Similar to above, showing wear. (Major)
• Excessive deterioration of flexible coupling: These couplings absorb vibrations and allow for slight misalignment. Deterioration compromises their function. (Major)
• Attachment of steering column defective or loose to the extent of serious risk of detachment: The column must be securely mounted. (Major/Dangerous)
• Unsafe modification to steering column, forks or fork yoke: Non-standard alterations are a fail. (Major)

Your Proactive Pre-MOT Steering Checklist

While a professional inspection is always recommended, there's plenty you can do to check your steering before the MOT. These checks don't require specialist tools, just a keen eye and a bit of effort:

• The 'Free Play' Test: With the vehicle stationary and the engine off (or on for power steering), sit in the driver's seat. Gently turn the steering wheel from side to side. Observe how far you can turn the wheel before the road wheels begin to move. There should be minimal play. If you can turn the wheel more than an inch or two (depending on the vehicle) without the road wheels reacting, you likely have excessive play.
• Listen and Feel for Abnormalities:
• Turn the steering wheel from lock to lock with the engine running. Listen for any grinding, squealing, groaning, or clunking noises. These could indicate issues with the power steering pump, worn joints, or rubbing components.
• Feel for any stiffness, notchiness, or resistance in the steering. It should feel smooth and consistent throughout its range of motion.
• While driving slowly in a quiet area, listen for any clunking noises when going over bumps or turning sharply, which could indicate loose or worn steering components.
• Under Bonnet Visual Inspection (if accessible):
• Check the power steering fluid reservoir. Ensure the fluid level is between the 'min' and 'max' marks. If it's low or empty, it points to a leak.
• Look for any visible fluid leaks around the power steering pump, hoses, or steering rack.
• Inspect any visible steering components (like tie rod ends or steering rack mounts) for obvious damage, looseness, or corrosion.
• Check the condition of any visible rubber boots or gaiters for tears or cracks.
• Under Vehicle Visual Inspection (if safe to do so): If you have access to a jack and axle stands, and are competent in their safe use, you can perform more detailed visual checks.
• With the front wheels off the ground, grip each wheel at the '3 and 9 o'clock' positions and try to rock it. Any significant play could indicate worn tie rod ends or steering rack issues.
• Then, grip the wheel at the '12 and 6 o'clock' positions and try to rock it. Play here usually indicates worn wheel bearings or suspension ball joints, which are also MOT items.
• Visually inspect the steering rack gaiters and CV joint boots for any tears or damage.
• Look for any obvious corrosion, cracks, or damage on the steering rack, tie rods, and other linkage components.

What Happens if Your Steering Fails the MOT?

If your vehicle fails its MOT due to steering defects, it means it's deemed unsafe to be on the road. For 'Major' defects, you'll need to get the repairs done and then have a re-test. Depending on the centre and how quickly repairs are made, you might qualify for a free re-test. However, for 'Dangerous' defects, the vehicle should not be driven on public roads until the repairs are carried out, as it poses an immediate risk to safety.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is a rear wheel steering check during an MOT?

A: During an MOT, if your vehicle is equipped with rear wheel steering, the tester will specifically check this system from beneath the car. They will look for correct operation, security of components, and any signs of wear, damage, or malfunction, similar to how they inspect the front steering components.

Q: Can a power steering fluid leak cause an MOT failure?

A: Yes, a power steering fluid leak can definitely cause an MOT failure. If the fluid is leaking to the extent that it is dripping, it will result in a Major defect. An empty power steering fluid reservoir is also a Major defect, often indicating a significant leak which would also lead to failure.

Q: How much steering wheel play is acceptable for an MOT?

A: There isn't a precise universal measurement, as it depends on the vehicle's specific steering mechanism and the size of the steering wheel. However, excessive free play at the rim of the steering wheel, where you can turn the wheel significantly without the road wheels moving, will be a Major defect. If this excessive play is deemed to affect safe steering, it becomes a Dangerous defect.

Q: Do damaged steering gaiters lead to an MOT failure?

A: Yes, damaged or deteriorated steering rack gaiters or ball joint dust covers can lead to an MOT failure. If the damage is such that the gaiter no longer prevents the ingress of dirt, water, etc., it becomes a Major defect. A minor tear might initially be an advisory, but it will quickly worsen and lead to a failure.

Q: Is a fractured steering component an instant MOT fail?

A: Absolutely. A fractured steering component is a very serious defect. Depending on the component and the extent of the fracture, it will almost certainly be classified as a Major or, more likely, a Dangerous defect. A Dangerous defect means the vehicle should not be driven on public roads until repaired, as it poses an immediate and direct risk to road safety.

Conclusion

The steering system is fundamental to your vehicle's safety and control. By taking the time to perform these simple yet effective pre-MOT checks, you can gain confidence in your vehicle's condition, address potential issues early, and significantly increase your chances of a successful MOT pass. Remember, a well-maintained steering system not only ensures compliance with legal requirements but, most importantly, keeps you and others safe on the road. If you identify any concerns, it's always best to consult a qualified mechanic for a professional diagnosis and repair.

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