18/02/2014
The annual MOT test can be a source of anxiety for many motorists, with statistics showing that around 22% of vehicles fail their mandatory inspection each year. This means more than one in five cars struggle to meet the required safety and environmental standards. However, automotive experts are keen to highlight that the vast majority of these failures are entirely preventable. The key, they insist, lies in adopting a proactive approach to vehicle maintenance, spotting and addressing minor issues long before they escalate into costly problems that could lead to an MOT rejection.
The Importance of Year-Round Maintenance
Kazimieras Urbonas, Supplier Excellence Manager at Ovoko, a prominent online marketplace for used car parts, emphasises that drivers often delay thinking about their car's condition until the MOT date looms large. "Drivers usually only think about their car's condition as the MOT date approaches," he explains. "By that point, small issues have often developed into bigger problems that could have been spotted and fixed months earlier." This reactive approach not only increases the likelihood of an MOT failure but also the potential expense, as minor repairs can morph into major ones.
Adopting a year-round maintenance mindset is crucial. Instead of viewing the MOT as a single, daunting event, consider it a culmination of consistent care. This approach transforms the annual test from a potential stressor into a straightforward confirmation that your vehicle is safe and roadworthy. By addressing issues as they arise, or even better, through regular preventative checks, you minimise the risk of unexpected failures and the associated costs, including retest fees and the inconvenience of being without your vehicle.
Common MOT Failure Points and How to Check Them
Understanding the most frequent reasons for MOT failures is the first step towards prevention. Urbonas identifies several key areas that motorists should pay close attention to:
1. Faulty Lights: The Most Common Culprit
Faulty lights are consistently the most common reason for MOT failures. Fortunately, they are also among the easiest components to check and rectify yourself. A single blown bulb, whether it's a headlight, brake light, indicator, or fog light, will result in an automatic test failure.
How to check: The simplest method is to have a friend or family member stand outside the vehicle while you systematically test each light. Alternatively, you can use a reflective surface, such as a garage door or a large mirror, to check your brake lights and indicators. Ensure all lights are functioning correctly:
- Headlights (both dipped and main beam)
- Brake lights (including the high-level brake light)
- Indicators (front, rear, and side)
- Hazard lights
- Fog lights (front and rear, if fitted)
What to do: "Replace any blown bulbs immediately," advises Urbonas. "Most are inexpensive, and many can be changed at home with basic tools." Keeping a few common bulb types in your glovebox can be a lifesaver.
2. Tyre Condition: Tread Depth and Damage
Tyres are critical for safety, affecting grip, braking, and handling. Worn tyres or tyres with inadequate tread depth are a frequent cause of MOT failure. The legal minimum tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre's width.
How to check: You can easily check your tread depth using a 20p coin. Insert the coin into the lowest part of the tread groove. If you cannot see the outer band of the 20p coin when inserted, your tread depth is likely above the legal minimum. However, for accuracy, a dedicated tread depth gauge is recommended. Also, visually inspect your tyres for any cuts, bulges, or foreign objects embedded in the sidewall or tread.
What to do: If your tyres are below the legal limit or show signs of damage, they must be replaced. It's advisable to replace tyres in pairs on the same axle to ensure consistent handling and braking performance.
3. Braking System: Performance and Condition
The braking system is paramount for vehicle safety. Issues with brake pads, discs, fluid levels, and the general performance of the braking system can lead to an MOT failure.
How to check: While a full brake inspection requires professional knowledge, you can perform some basic checks. Listen for any grinding or squealing noises when braking, which could indicate worn brake pads. Visually inspect the brake discs for excessive scoring or signs of warping. Crucially, check your brake fluid level. The fluid reservoir is usually marked with minimum and maximum lines. Ensure the level is between these marks.
What to do: If you notice any of the above issues, or if the brake pedal feels spongy or travels too far down, have your braking system inspected by a qualified mechanic immediately. Low brake fluid levels may indicate a leak or worn brake pads, both of which require urgent attention.
4. Windscreen Wipers and Washers
Effective windscreen wipers and washers are essential for maintaining clear visibility, especially in adverse weather conditions. Ineffective wipers or a faulty washer system can result in an MOT failure.
How to check: Turn on your wipers and spray some washer fluid. Check that the wipers clear the windscreen effectively without streaking or juddering. Ensure the washer jets spray fluid adequately onto the windscreen.
What to do: Replace worn wiper blades if they leave streaks or don't clear the screen properly. If the washer jets are blocked or the pump is not working, these issues should also be addressed.
5. Fluids: The Lifeblood of Your Vehicle
Urbonas aptly likens vehicle fluids to "your car's lifeblood." Maintaining correct fluid levels is vital for the smooth operation and longevity of various components.
How to check:
- Engine Oil: Check the oil level when the engine is cold and the car is on level ground. Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, reinsert it fully, and then remove it again to read the level. It should be between the minimum and maximum marks.
- Brake Fluid: As mentioned, check the level in the designated reservoir.
- Coolant: Ensure the coolant level is between the minimum and maximum marks in the expansion tank. Never open the radiator cap when the engine is hot.
- Power Steering Fluid: Check the level in the power steering reservoir, following the manufacturer's instructions, as some systems require checking when hot, others when cold.
What to do: Top up any fluids that are low using the correct type of fluid specified in your vehicle's handbook. If you consistently need to top up fluids, it may indicate a leak that needs professional attention.
Creating a Simple Monthly Maintenance Checklist
To avoid the stress and cost associated with MOT failures, Urbonas suggests implementing a simple, proactive maintenance routine. "I always tell drivers to create a simple monthly checklist covering the basics; lights, tyres, fluids, and a visual inspection for anything unusual," he recommends. "This twenty-minute routine could save you hundreds in repair bills and prevent the stress of unexpected breakdowns."
A basic monthly checklist could include:
| Area to Check | What to Look For | Action if Issue Found |
|---|---|---|
| Lights | All bulbs working (headlights, brake, indicators, hazards, fog) | Replace blown bulbs |
| Tyres | Adequate tread depth (above 1.6mm), no visible damage (cuts, bulges) | Replace if worn or damaged |
| Fluids | Correct levels for oil, coolant, brake fluid, washer fluid | Top up if low, check for leaks if levels drop frequently |
| Windscreen Wipers & Washers | Wipers clear screen effectively, washer jets work | Replace blades, clear jets or repair pump |
| Visual Inspection | Look for leaks under the car, unusual noises, or warning lights on the dashboard | Investigate and seek professional advice if necessary |
Beyond the Minimum: Responsible Ownership
It's important to remember that the MOT is a baseline safety inspection, not an exhaustive health check for your vehicle. "Responsible ownership means going beyond the minimum requirements and addressing small issues before they become major problems," Urbonas concludes. By taking a proactive stance and performing these simple checks regularly, you can significantly reduce the chances of failing your MOT, save money on repairs, and ensure your vehicle remains safe and reliable on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common reasons for MOT failure?
The most frequent reasons include faulty lights (blown bulbs, incorrect aim), inadequate tyre tread depth or damaged tyres, issues with the braking system (worn pads/discs, low fluid), and ineffective windscreen wipers or washers.
How can I check my tyre tread depth?
You can use a 20p coin. Insert it into a tread groove; if the outer band is visible, the tread may be below the legal minimum of 1.6mm. A tread depth gauge offers more accuracy.
Is it expensive to fix common MOT failure points?
Many common issues, like replacing a headlight bulb, are very inexpensive (£10 or less) and can often be done yourself. However, if these small issues are left unaddressed and lead to an MOT failure, the cost can increase significantly due to retest fees and potentially more extensive repairs.
How often should I check my car's fluids?
It's advisable to check essential fluids like engine oil and coolant at least once a month. Checking brake fluid and washer fluid monthly is also good practice.
What should I do if I suspect a problem with my brakes?
If you hear strange noises when braking, the pedal feels soft, or you notice any leaks, it's crucial to have your braking system inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible. Brakes are a critical safety component.
By integrating these simple checks into your routine, you can transform your MOT experience from a potentially stressful event into a manageable part of responsible car ownership, ensuring your vehicle remains safe, legal, and reliable.
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