Every year, as a car owner, you’re required to get your vehicle through the MOT (Ministry of Transport) test, ensuring it meets the necessary safety and environmental standards. Failing the MOT can be frustrating, time-consuming, and costly mot. However, by understanding the common reasons why cars fail the MOT test, you can take proactive steps to prevent them and keep your vehicle in top shape.
1. Worn-Out or Damaged Tyres
Tyres are one of the most common reasons for MOT failures. Worn-out tread depth, cuts, or bulges can all cause a vehicle to fail its MOT test.
How to Avoid It: Regularly check your tyres for visible damage, cuts, or bulges. Ensure the tread depth is above the legal minimum of 1.6mm. If in doubt, have your tyres professionally inspected at least once a year or every 10,000 miles. Replacing old or damaged tyres early will save you from MOT headaches.
2. Faulty Lights and Indicators
Lights are essential not just for safety but also for passing your MOT. A faulty headlight, brake light, or indicator could easily cause a failure.
How to Avoid It: Before your MOT, check all your vehicle’s lights, including headlights, brake lights, tail lights, and indicators. Replace any broken bulbs. You can even have a friend or family member stand outside the car while you operate the lights to ensure they work correctly.
3. Inadequate Windscreen Wipers and Washers
Worn or broken windscreen wipers can result in poor visibility, which is a safety issue that may lead to a failed MOT. In addition, a faulty washer system will be checked as part of the test.
How to Avoid It: Ensure your windscreen wipers are in good condition and replace them if the rubber is cracked or worn. Fill up your washer reservoir regularly and check that the wipers clear the windscreen effectively.
4. Brake Issues
Brakes are one of the most critical components of any car. If your brake pads are worn down or the system is malfunctioning, your car is at risk of failing the MOT.
How to Avoid It: Have your brakes inspected regularly, particularly before the MOT. Listen for unusual noises like squeaking or grinding, which could indicate worn-out brake pads. Ensure your brake fluid is topped up and within the manufacturer’s recommended levels.
5. Excessive Emissions
One of the main purposes of the MOT test is to assess whether your car meets environmental standards. High levels of CO2 emissions or poor fuel efficiency could lead to a fail.
How to Avoid It: Ensure your car’s exhaust system is functioning well and that there are no leaks. Regular maintenance, such as oil changes and replacing air filters, can help keep emissions under control. If your vehicle is older, consider getting a pre-MOT emissions check.
6. Suspension Problems
A faulty suspension system can affect handling, safety, and comfort. The MOT tester will check for any issues with the suspension, including worn-out shock absorbers or damaged springs.
How to Avoid It: Listen for unusual noises when driving, like clunking or knocking sounds, which could indicate suspension issues. If your car is difficult to handle or feels bumpy on smooth roads, have your suspension checked by a professional.
7. Corroded or Faulty Exhaust System
A damaged exhaust system not only affects emissions but also contributes to noise pollution. If your exhaust is leaking or corroded, it will likely fail the MOT test.
How to Avoid It: Check your exhaust for visible rust or holes, particularly if your car is older. Ensure there are no unusual noises like rattling, which could indicate exhaust system damage. If you notice exhaust fumes inside the cabin, have it inspected immediately.
8. Steering Issues
Steering problems are often overlooked but can be a critical safety concern. Loose steering or unusual vibrations can be a sign of steering system faults.
How to Avoid It: If you experience any difficulty when turning or if the steering wheel feels unusually heavy or light, get your steering system checked before your MOT. Regular maintenance and lubrication can help keep the steering system in good shape.
9. Seatbelts and Airbags
Defective seatbelts or malfunctioning airbags will cause an MOT failure, as they are essential for the safety of both the driver and passengers.
How to Avoid It: Test all seatbelts for any issues like fraying or locking problems. Ensure that airbags deploy as expected by regularly servicing your vehicle. Any warning lights related to the seatbelt or airbags should be addressed immediately.
10. Battery and Electrical Issues
A weak or dead battery will fail the MOT. Additionally, electrical faults such as malfunctioning fuses or wiring issues may lead to problems during the test.
How to Avoid It: Check your battery regularly for corrosion or leaks. If your vehicle struggles to start, the battery may need replacing. Address any electrical faults promptly, particularly if dashboard warning lights appear.
Conclusion
While an MOT test is an essential part of vehicle ownership, the good news is that most common MOT failures are preventable with proper care and attention. Regularly servicing your car, keeping an eye on key components like tyres, brakes, and lights, and addressing any issues promptly will help ensure that your vehicle passes the MOT without hassle. By being proactive, you can save both time and money, keeping your car safe and roadworthy for another year.
4o mini