How to Avoid Common Car MOT Failures: Insider Tips for Every Driver

Every driver dreads failing a car MOT – not only is it inconvenient, but it can also lead to costly repairs. Understanding the most common reasons for MOT failures and taking steps to avoid them can save you time, money, and stress. With branches across the south and south east of England, Elite Garages MOT Newport, MOT Portsmouth, and MOT Shaftesbury, we are here to help ensure your car passes its MOT the first time.

Regular Vehicle Maintenance to Help Pass Your Car MOT

Ensuring your vehicle is regularly maintained is the first step towards a successful car MOT. This includes regular oil changes, checking tyre pressure and tread depth, replacing worn brake pads, and addressing any warning lights that may appear on your dashboard. Not only will this prevent common car MOT failures, but it also helps keep your car running smoothly and safely. Read on for our expert tips to help you prepare your vehicle for its MOT and avoid common failures.

1. Check Your Lights and Indicators

One of the most common reasons for MOT failures is faulty lights, including headlights, brake lights, and indicators. Many drivers overlook these simple yet critical components. Before heading for your car MOT, make sure all lights work correctly, including your number plate light, as this can result in a failure. Our branches across the country see many vehicles fail due to minor lighting issues that could have easily been fixed beforehand. Don’t let this be the reason your car fails its MOT.

2. Test Your Brakes and Handbrake

Brakes are one of the most vital safety components on any vehicle, and faulty brakes are a leading cause of MOT failures. During an MOT, the brake system is rigorously tested for functionality and effectiveness. To avoid a failure, listen for any unusual noises when braking, and ensure your handbrake is responsive.

If you’re unsure, book a car service at any of our Elite Garages branches; from our MOT Portsmouth, MOT Shaftesbury, MOT Horsham or MOT Newport vehicle service centres, our technicians can inspect and repair any potential issues before your test. This includes brake inspections, wheel alignment checks, tyre checks and exhaust checks among others.

3. Inspect Tyre Tread Depth and Condition

Worn tyres are another frequent cause of MOT failures. UK law requires a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm, and tyres below this can result in an automatic failure. Make sure to check the condition of all tyres, including the spare, for signs of damage such as bulges or cuts. If your tyres are nearing their legal limit, our tyre experts can offer expert advice on replacement options to ensure your car is roadworthy for its MOT.

4. Ensure Clear Visibility with Your Windscreen and Wipers

Your windscreen must be free of cracks, chips, or other damage that obstructs the driver’s view. Similarly, wipers need to be in good condition to clear water effectively. Damaged wipers or a windscreen with significant damage can result in a failure. Visiting one of our many branches, including MOT Shaftesbury, MOT Newport, MOT Horsham or MOT Portsmouth for car servicing will give you the peace of mind that your vehicle is fully prepared for its MOT.

Please note that all of our branches except Elite Garages Strood offer car MOT.

5. Exhaust Emissions and Fluid Levels

Modern emissions standards are strict, and if your car’s exhaust emits excessive smoke or pollutants, it will likely fail its car MOT. Regular maintenance can prevent this by ensuring your engine is running efficiently. Additionally, make sure essential fluids, such as brake fluid, coolant, and oil, are topped up before your test. If you’re based near any of our branches, we highly recommend booking a pre-MOT inspection to check emissions and fluid levels, among others

Bonus Car MOT Tip: Keep a Clean Car

It may not seem that important but one simple way to help avoid a car MOT failure is to make sure your car is clean. A build-up of dirt, leaves, and debris can obscure important components such as your number plate or brake lights. Plus, a clean car shows you take pride in your vehicle and are likely to take care of it.

Overall, the key to passing your car MOT the first time is regular maintenance and addressing any minor issues before they become major problems. Elite Garages offers reliable and professional services at all our branches to help ensure your vehicle is roadworthy for its MOT.

What Happens When You Fail A Car MOT?

If your car fails its MOT, don’t panic. You will receive a list of “minor” and “major” defects that require repairs before the next test. You can still drive your vehicle if it has failed, but only to a registered garage for repairs. Once these are completed, you can have a free MOT retest within ten working days to check the issues identified in the original test. If you fail to address these issues or do not complete the retest within ten days, you will need to pay for a full car MOT again.

Recommended: What Is Checked During An MOT?

Don’t Wait for a Car MOT Failure – Be Proactive!

Failing a car MOT is frustrating, but it’s often avoidable with some simple checks and routine car servicing. Whether you need assistance with lighting, brakes, tyres, or emissions, Elite Garages can help ensure your vehicle is road-ready.

With these insider tips in mind, you can approach your next MOT with confidence knowing that you have taken all necessary precautions to pass without any issues. So remember – stay on top of regular maintenance, check essential components before your car MOT!

Now Read:

“How regular car servicing can prevent costly MOT failures“

“When did the Car MOT start in the UK“

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