Windscreen Cracks & Your MOT Test

Understanding Windscreen Damage and the MOT Test

The MOT test is a crucial annual inspection designed to ensure your vehicle is safe and environmentally sound. One of the key areas examined is the condition of your windscreen. While a minor chip might not cause an immediate problem, a significant crack can lead to your vehicle failing its MOT. This article delves into what happens if your windscreen cracks during the MOT test, the specific regulations involved, and what you should do to rectify the situation.

What Constitutes a Windscreen Defect for MOT Purposes?

The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), which oversees MOT testing in the UK, has clear guidelines on what constitutes a windscreen defect. The primary concern is visibility. If a crack or chip obstructs the driver's view of the road, it's a serious issue. Specifically, the rules focus on the area swept by the windscreen wipers. Any damage within this zone is more likely to cause a failure, especially if it's extensive.

The DVSA guidance states that a windscreen will fail if:

• There is damage (a chip or crack) in the windscreen directly in the driver's line of vision. This is defined as the area swept by the driver's windscreen wiper.
• The damage is over 10mm in diameter within the 'A' zone (the area swept by the driver's wiper).
• The damage is between 10mm and 40mm in diameter within the 'A' zone, but is a crack (not a chip).
• The damage is between 40mm and 50mm in diameter within the 'A' zone, and is a chip (not a crack).
• The damage is over 50mm in diameter within the 'A' zone.
• The windscreen is not securely fitted.

It's important to note that 'damage' can refer to chips, cracks, or even significant scratches that impair visibility. The tester will assess the location and severity of the damage to determine if it presents a safety hazard.

What Happens if a Crack Appears *During* the MOT Test?

This is a less common scenario, but it can happen. If a crack develops or worsens during the physical inspection – perhaps due to the pressure of cleaning or a pre-existing weakness exacerbated by handling – the vehicle will be assessed based on the condition of the windscreen at that moment. If the newly formed or extended crack now falls within the failure criteria outlined above, the vehicle will fail the MOT on that specific item.

The tester is obligated to report any defects found. If the crack is a new development during the test, it's still a defect that needs to be addressed. The outcome is the same as if the crack was present before the test began: a failure.

Consequences of a Failed MOT Due to Windscreen Damage

If your vehicle fails its MOT due to windscreen damage, it is illegal to drive it on public roads, unless you are driving it to a pre-booked appointment for repair. You will receive a refusal of an MOT test certificate, along with a list of the reasons for failure (the 'refusal of an MOT test certificate' or 'advisory notice').

You will need to have the windscreen repaired or replaced and then present the vehicle for a re-test. Depending on the garage and the nature of the repair, a partial re-test might be possible, usually focusing only on the failed item.

Repairing or Replacing a Cracked Windscreen

The good news is that many windscreen cracks can be repaired, especially if they are caught early and are not too extensive. Windscreen repair involves injecting a special resin into the damaged area, which is then cured. This process can restore the structural integrity of the windscreen and significantly improve visibility.

However, not all damage can be repaired. If the crack is too long, too deep, or too close to the edge of the windscreen, replacement is the only option. Modern windscreens are a crucial part of a vehicle's safety structure, contributing to the integrity of the passenger cell in a crash and working in conjunction with airbags.

When is Repair Possible?

• Chips smaller than a 10p coin.
• Cracks less than 15cm (6 inches) long.
• Damage that is not in the driver's line of sight.

When is Replacement Necessary?

• Cracks longer than 15cm (6 inches).
• Damage directly in the driver's line of sight that cannot be repaired.
• Damage to the edges of the windscreen.
• Multiple large chips or cracks.

Cost Considerations: Repair vs. Replacement

Generally, repairing a windscreen is significantly cheaper than replacing it. Repair costs can range from £30 to £80, depending on the severity and location of the damage. Windscreen replacement, on the other hand, can cost anywhere from £100 to £500 or more, depending on the make and model of the vehicle and the type of glass required (e.g., heated windscreens, those with integrated sensors for rain or light).

Many car insurance policies, particularly comprehensive ones, include free windscreen cover. This means you might be able to get your windscreen repaired or replaced without affecting your no-claims bonus and often with no excess to pay. It's always worth checking your policy documents or contacting your insurer to see if you are covered.

Preventative Measures and Regular Checks

The best approach to MOT failures is prevention. Regularly inspect your windscreen for any signs of damage. Even small chips can spread over time, especially with changes in temperature or vibrations from driving. If you notice a chip, get it repaired as soon as possible. This not only helps you avoid an MOT failure but also prevents the chip from turning into a larger, more costly crack.

Consider the following:

• Regular visual inspection: Make it a habit to check your windscreen before driving, especially after long journeys or exposure to harsh weather.
• Address chips immediately: Don't ignore small chips. The sooner they are repaired, the higher the chance of a successful and inexpensive repair.
• Cleanliness: While cleaning, be mindful of applying excessive pressure, particularly if you suspect underlying damage.
• Temperature changes: Extreme temperature fluctuations can cause existing damage to worsen. Park in shade during hot weather and be cautious with de-icing in cold weather.

Common Misconceptions

One common misconception is that any crack will automatically cause an MOT failure. As highlighted earlier, the location and size of the crack are critical. A small chip or crack outside the driver's primary field of vision might only result in an advisory notice rather than a failure.

Another point of confusion can be the difference between a chip and a crack. A chip is typically a small, isolated pit in the glass, while a crack is a line that extends from a point of impact or weakness.

What to do if your car fails the MOT due to a windscreen

If your vehicle fails its MOT due to a cracked or damaged windscreen, here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Get a quote for repair or replacement: Contact a reputable automotive glass specialist.
2. Check your insurance: See if your policy covers windscreen damage.
3. Arrange the repair: Book your vehicle in for the necessary work.
4. Present for re-test: Once the repair is complete, you'll need to take your vehicle back to an MOT test centre for a re-test. If the garage that performed the repair is an MOT centre, they can often conduct the re-test on-site.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can a small chip on the windscreen cause an MOT failure?
A1: A small chip (under 10mm) in the driver's line of vision may result in an advisory notice, but a larger chip (over 40mm) or one in the swept area could lead to failure.

Q2: What is the 'driver's line of vision' for MOT tests?
A2: It's the area of the windscreen swept by the driver's windscreen wiper.

Q3: If my windscreen cracks during the MOT, do I have to pay for the test?
A3: Yes, the test fee is still payable, and you will receive a refusal certificate listing the defects.

Q4: Can I drive my car with a cracked windscreen if it failed its MOT?
A4: Only to a pre-booked appointment for repair. Driving otherwise is illegal.

Q5: Does windscreen repair affect the MOT test?
A5: A professionally repaired windscreen, where the damage no longer falls within the failure criteria, should pass the MOT.

Conclusion

A cracked windscreen is more than just an aesthetic issue; it's a significant safety concern and a potential reason for your vehicle to fail its MOT test. By understanding the DVSA's regulations regarding windscreen damage and taking proactive steps to inspect and maintain your vehicle's glass, you can avoid unexpected failures and ensure your car remains safe and legal on the road. Remember, early detection and repair of chips are key to preventing more serious problems down the line.

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