Every responsible driver in the UK knows that if their car is over three years old – unless it was built prior to 1960 – it needs to pass an MOT test every 12 months. The purpose of an MOT is quite simple; to determine whether a car is road safe. MOT tests are not designed to pick up on any problems that may develop down the line. Most cars fail their MOT for simple reasons that are easily preventable – five of these MOT faults, we have listed below.

Lights and signalling

One of the questions you can expect to be asked in the run-up to your driving test is, “tell me how to check the vehicle’s lights are working”.

Why then, do nearly one fifth of cars fail their MOT because of problems with their lights?

The best way to check them is to turn on the lights and hazards, and then walk around the vehicle to make sure everything is as it should be.

It’s also a good idea to get someone to check the back of your vehicle when you have the brake pedal pressed down, so that you can be certain the brake lights are still working.

Suspension

One in 10 MOT failures is caused by suspension issues.

It’s easy to turn the music up so you can’t hear the noise your car is making – but these are things we need to pay attention to!

Do you hear any unusual clunks? Does your car sit level when you’re parked? Push each corner of the vehicle down. Does it bounce when it returns to its normal level?

All of these tests will show you if there’s an issue with your vehicle’s suspension.

Brakes

Worryingly, a tenth of MOT failures come as a result of issues with brakes.

Every driver knows the importance of having a working brake system. So, you should always listen out for any noises coming from your brakes – especially any squeaking or grinding. You should always try and inspect the discs and pads.

Don’t forget about your handbrake! Check your car holds still on a hill with just the handbrake applied.

Tyres

Modern cars come with all of the safety features imaginable, but these count for nothing if there are significant problems with a vehicle’s tyres.

You should be checking pressure and tread on your car regularly, not just at MOT time! Tyres impact how quickly you can stop your car.

The RAC has a handy video showing how to check a car’s tyre tread.

View of the road

A vital component of driving safely, is being able to see the road clearly. Yet somehow, things like air fresheners or satnavs blocking our view of the road leads poor visibility to be the fifth most common reason for failing an MOT.

We even have to make sure there’s no danger of the bonnet popping open when we drive!

Finally, it’s good to check your wipers, and to send your car for its MOT topped up with washer fluid.

The main takeaway from the guidance above is to keep on top of these small details, to make sure you don’t end up with a big cost when it’s MOT time.

If you’re looking for an MOT garage in Thurrock, don’t hesitate to contact Advanced Service Centre on 01375 384883, for a fantastic service at an even better price.