All cars have to pass an MOT every year if they are more than 3 years old. The MOT tests if your car is roadworthy. There are a few major aspects to check if your car is roadworthy. These can often be easily remedied. Here are some of the most common ways to fail a MOT, and how to help avoid them.
Shine a Light
As many as 18.9% of cars fail their MOT because of issues with their lights. This is frequently as small an issue as a blown bulb. You should switch on all your lights and walk around the car to check that they are working. You should also check that your lights are clean enough. A simple lens cleaning kit might be enough to save you from failing your test.
Sinking Feeling
Many cars in the UK suffer from suspension problems. With so many potholes on the roads, it comes as no surprise that 13% of MOT failures are from suspension issues. Make sure that you inspect your car before the MOT. Does your car sit evenly on all sides, or does it sink in one direction? Make sure your car returns to its normal level if you push it down.
Hit the Brakes
One in ten cars fail their MOT because a fault is found with their brakes. Brake issues can often be easily identified. Listen out for excessive squeaking or grinding from your brakes. This could mean that your brake pads are running low. Examine your brake pads regularly, and see if they are visually damaged. If you suspect that your brakes might have a problem, take your car to a garage before you fail your MOT.
Keep Rolling
While it might seem obvious, check your tires have enough tread and are inflated. You don’t want to fail your MOT because of tyre issues, yet 7.7% of cars do. The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm. You can use a 20p coin to test your tire tread. Put the coin in the tread – if you can still see the outer band of the coin then your tyres likely do not have enough tread.
See Clearly
You need to be able to see clearly to drive safely. Unfortunately, failing to ensure this is one of the easiest ways of failing your MOT. Make sure that things you might have added to the car, such as Sat-Nav holders or air fresheners do not stop you from seeing clearly. 7.2% of cars fail for what should be this easily avoidable option.