If your MOT is due soon, don’t be surprised if there’s something that catches you out when you take it in to the garage. Check out our list of the top 7 most common causes of a failed MOT…and a few facts on just how easily they can be fixed.
• The 1st most common failure is the Lights, these fail up to 19% of drivers on their MOT test. To avoid being in this 19% of failed MOTs, simply get someone to sit in the car whilst you walk around checking every light on your vehicle. If you spot any that aren’t working you can buy a new bulb and replace it at home – easy peasy!
• The 2nd most common failure is the Suspension, these fail up to 13% of drivers on their MOT test. To fix this before your MOT fails, you simply need to see if the shock absorbers have gone by applying your weight to each corner of the car then release. Your car should settle back quickly.
• The 3rd most common failure is the Brakes, these fail up to 10% of drivers on their MOT test. So to prevent yourself from being in that 10%, check your brakes to see if they feel loose or unresponsive, or if your handbrake slides up without any resistance. Otherwise this issue is usually left to a professional mechanic to fix.
• The 4th most common failure is the Tyres, these fail up to 8% of drivers on their MOT test. Be sure to check your tyre pressure, look up what they should be and if they’re low – fill them up at the petrol station. Also make sure you check your tyre tread.
• The 5th most common failure is the Windscreen, these fail up to 7% of drivers on their MOT test. To prevent you from being in this 7% of failed MOTs, check that there is no damage to the driver’s central view – this should be no larger than 10mm, in the whole swept area.
• The 6th most common failure is the Exhaust, these fail up to 5% of drivers on their MOT test. Be sure to check the exhaust by starting your engine (in a well-ventilated area) and stand at the rear of the car to listen for any unusual noise or smoke. If any occur these indicate a leak, which is of course worth fixing before your MOT.
• The 7th most common failure is the License Plate, these fail up to a small 1% of drivers on their MOT test. All you have to do is make sure your plates are clean and easily legible from 20 metres away.
So, now you know the 7 most common factors that fail drivers on their MOT, which can hopefully help you in the future. Also remember to keep all fluids topped up in your car, as well as some of the smaller errors which could potentially fail you, i.e. fuel cap, mirrors, and seatbelts. Check these are all in full working order.
If you need an MOT test doing within the next few weeks, why not book online at AP Autocare or call us for more information on, 0117 963 8916 or book online here.