A few things can be as frustrating as getting your car to an MOT test garage and finding out that your vehicle didn’t pass.
This problem comes down to several faults, some so common that you can easily avoid them. In this blog post, we’ll look at the most common MOT fails and how to avoid them.
Common MOT Fails
Lighting and Signaling
Faulty lights are a major offender. This includes everything from blown bulbs in your headlights, taillights, brake lights, and indicators to issues with the headlight alignment.
Regularly check all your lights and replace any bulbs that are out. Don’t forget to check your high beams and fog lights too. Misaligned headlights can often be adjusted at home with some care, or a quick visit to a garage can sort it out.
Brakes
Brake problems are a serious safety concern and a common cause of MOT failure. They can range from worn brake pads and discs to issues with the brake lines or callipers.
Listen for any unusual braking noises, like squealing or grinding, and get them checked immediately. Regular servicing, including brake inspections, is crucial. Don’t wait until the last minute to address brake issues.
Tyres
Tyres are another common failure point. The MOT checks for tread depth, tyre condition (cuts, bulges), and correct tyre pressure. Check your tyre pressures regularly and ensure you have the legal minimum tread depth (1.6mm in the UK). Look for any signs of damage, like cuts or bulges, and promptly replace worn or damaged tyres. Remember, good tyres are essential for safety, especially in adverse weather.
Suspension
Problems with the suspension system, such as worn shock absorbers, springs, or ball joints, can lead to MOT failure. Listen for clunking or knocking noises when driving over bumps. If your car feels unstable or bouncy, get the suspension checked. Regular servicing can help identify and address suspension issues early on.
Exhaust System
Exhaust leaks or damage can cause MOT failure. Listen for unusual noises from your exhaust, like a roaring or hissing sound. A visual inspection can often reveal apparent damage. Address exhaust problems promptly, as they can also affect your car’s emissions.
Windscreen Wipers and Washers
Believe it or not, something as simple as worn wiper blades or an empty washer fluid reservoir can cause an MOT failure. Check your wiper blades regularly for wear and tear, and replace them when necessary. Make sure your washer fluid is topped up. Clear visibility is essential for safe driving, and these simple checks can prevent an unnecessary MOT fail.
How To Avoid MOT Fails
Failing your MOT can be frustrating, but many common failures are easily preventable with proactive maintenance. Here’s how to keep your car in top shape and breeze through the test.
Lights and Signals
Regularly check all your lights. Don’t just do a quick glance; test each one individually, including headlights (high and low beams), taillights, brake lights, indicators (front and rear), fog lights, and even your number plate lights. Keep spare bulbs in your car so you can replace them immediately if needed. If your headlights seem misaligned, you can try adjusting them yourself following your car’s manual, but it’s often best to get a garage to do it properly.
Brakes
Brakes are critical, so don’t take them lightly. Listen for any unusual noises like squealing, grinding, or clicking when you brake. If you hear anything, get your brakes checked by a mechanic as soon as possible. Don’t wait until your MOT comes up! Regular servicing should include brake inspections, and our mechanics at FiveStar Autocentre can advise on when pads and discs need replacement.
Tyres
Check your tyre pressures regularly (at least once a month) and inflate them to the recommended levels (found in your car’s manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s side door). Use a tyre tread depth gauge to ensure you have at least the legal minimum tread depth (1.6mm in the UK). Also, check the sidewalls of your tyres for any cuts, bulges, or other damage. Replace tyres as soon as they show signs of wear or damage.
Suspension
Listen for clunking or knocking noises, especially when driving over bumps. If your car bounces excessively after going over a speed bump or feels unstable in corners, your suspension might need attention. Get it checked by a mechanic. Regular servicing will include checks on suspension components like shock absorbers, springs, and ball joints.
Exhaust System
Listen for unusual exhaust noises, such as roaring, hissing, or rattling. A visual inspection can sometimes reveal apparent damage, such as holes or cracks. If you suspect an exhaust problem, get it checked immediately. Ignoring it can lead to worse (and more expensive) problems.
Wipers and Washers
Check your wiper blades regularly for wear and tear. If they’re streaking or smearing, replace them. It’s a quick and inexpensive job. Keep your washer fluid reservoir topped up with the correct screenwash solution. These small things can make a big difference to your visibility and prevent an easy-to-avoid MOT fail.
Other Components
Don’t forget the other essential bits. Check your horn to make sure it works. Make sure your steering feels responsive and doesn’t have excessive play. A little bit of regular maintenance can prevent these little niggles from turning into MOT failures.
Failing your MOT test doesn’t mean the end of the world. While this might be an incident that hinders you from attending to other important things, we at FiveStar Autocentre have you covered. Our team of expert auto mechanics is available to carry out repairs and maintenance on your vehicle to ensure you pass your MOT test.
We also double as an MOT test centre, offering MOT testing services at decent and affordable prices.
Book your MOT pre-test checks and testing service with us today to get started.
