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Dec
The MOT test is a legal requirement designed to ensure your vehicle meets road safety and environmental standards. However, many drivers are caught off guard when their car fails the test, and it can often be due to avoidable issues. In this blog, we’ll cover the key areas that are frequently flagged during an MOT and offer tips on how to keep your car in top condition to avoid a fail.
Faulty brakes
Brakes are one of the most crucial safety features of your vehicle, and any issues with them are a sure way to fail your MOT. Common brake problems include worn-out brake pads, damaged brake discs, or fluid leaks within the braking system.
The MOT test will check for brake performance, including how quickly the vehicle can come to a stop, the condition of brake components, and the level of brake fluid. If your brakes aren’t functioning properly, not only will you fail your MOT, but it can also pose serious risks on the road. You can undertake regular brake checks and timely maintenance to help prevent these issues from becoming a problem during your MOT.
Poor tyre condition
Tyres are essential for safe driving, and their condition plays a key role in passing your MOT. The most common issue with tyres is insufficient tread depth. For most cars, the minimum legal tread depth is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre. If the tread is worn beyond this limit, it can result in poor grip, which will increase your stopping distances and increase your risk of aquaplaning on wet roads.
Other tyre problems, such as bulges, cuts, or punctures that can’t be repaired, will also result in a failed MOT. You should ensure your tyres are properly inflated and regularly checked for damage to prevent failures and help keep you safe on the road.
Issues with lights and indicators
Your vehicle’s lights are needed for visibility and safety, so any faults with them can lead to an MOT failure. This will include broken or blown bulbs in headlights, tail lights, brake lights, or indicator lights. Even issues like incorrect beam alignment or damaged reflectors can cause a failure.
The MOT will also check that all the indicators are functioning correctly and that the lights meet the required brightness and positioning standards. To avoid a fail, you should regularly check that all your vehicle’s lights are in working order, clean, and aligned correctly.
Emissions failures
Excessive emissions can be a common reason for failing an MOT, especially in vehicles with older or poorly maintained engines. The emissions test will measure how much harmful exhaust gas is produced by your vehicle. This includes carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides.
If your vehicle’s emissions exceed the legal limit, it could be due to a faulty catalytic converter, a damaged exhaust system, or issues with the engine’s combustion process. Regular maintenance, such as checking and replacing air filters, and keeping the exhaust system in good condition, can help reduce emissions and improve your chances of passing the test.
Issues with windscreen wipers and washers
Your windscreen wipers and washer system are needed for maintaining clear visibility – if they’re not functioning, you can fail your MOT. The test will check that the wipers are in good condition, with no splits or damage to the blades, and that they can effectively clear the windscreen.
The washer system must also work correctly, spraying enough fluid to clean the screen. If the wipers smear excessively or the washers fail to operate, your vehicle won’t pass the MOT. To avoid this, replace your wipers when they get worn down or stop clearing your windscreen, and keep the washer fluid reservoir topped up with a suitable screen wash.
Steering and alignment issues
The steering system is obviously a critical component of your vehicle’s safety. The MOT will check for excessive wear, or damage in the steering components, such as the steering rack, column, and joints. If the steering feels loose, unresponsive, or pulls to one side, it may indicate alignment issues or worn parts.
Misaligned wheels can also cause uneven tyre wear, which can further increase the risk of a fail. You should aim to have your venule serviced regularly and ensure your steering system is properly maintained to help keep your vehicle roadworthy.
Worn or broken seatbelts
Seatbelts are a vital safety feature of any car, and any issues with them will lead to an MOT failure. The test will check that all seatbelts are present, secure, and in good working condition. This will include inspecting for fraying, cuts, or damage to the belt itself, as well as ensuring the buckles latch securely and the belts retract properly. The anchorage points will also be examined for corrosion or weakness. To avoid a fail, you should regularly check your seatbelts for wear and ensure they’re functioning correctly – even minor damage can reduce how effective they’ll be in an accident.
Poorly displayed license plates
Your vehicle’s registration plates must meet specific legal requirements, so if they don’t you can fail your MOT. The test will check that the plates are securely fixed, clearly visible, and legible. If your license plate is excessively cracked, faded, or dirty, so the characters are hard to read, you could end up with a fail. In addition, the font, spacing, and size of the characters must comply with DVLA regulations; personalised plates are allowed, but they must meet these standards. To ensure a pass, you should keep your plates clean, free of damage, and correctly formatted.
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