For most MOT failure items you simply have to get the garage to do the repairs. There are others where you can spend a little bit of time to check things in advance.
Even if you can’t fix them yourself, you’ll at least be aware of work that might be needed. This will mean you can have a better informed conversation with the mechanic and maybe budget ahead for the work or arrange interest-free payments.
1. Airbags
Is your airbag missing or is a warning light showing on the dash relating to it? If so get that sorted first.
2. Brakes
Good quality brakes are vital for your safety. If you hear squealing or grinding noises you’ll need to change your brake pads.
3. Exhaust
We all want to do our bit for the environment. High emissions can lead to failure so make sure your exhaust is in healthy, especially if you have a diesel vehicle. The emissions test is a vital part of the MOT Test. So, take your car for a drive on the motorway. Running at high revs helps clear the system out.
Also, check for:
- rust/corrosion
- loose parts
- missing mountings
- missing silencer baffles
4. Lights
- Turn all the lights on, including indicators and brake lights, to check everything works.
- Make sure the registration
- Bear in mind, due to modern vehicle design changing simple bulbs is getting tougher and tougher to do on your own.
- Even if you can’t change a bulb yourself, at least you’ll be aware before you go in.
5. Registration plate
If the plate is legible and not cracked you should be good to go. If you need to get it changed, make sure to take the correct documentation so the garage can prove ownership.
6. Seatbelts
Make sure they all clip in and retract easily. Now’s a good time to knead out those knots and twists.
7. Steering
Is your power steering fluid level ok? Are there any signs of leaks?
8. Suspension
Thumps or a knocking sound when going over bumps in the road could be a sign a fault in your suspension system. You should be able to get the test centre to check the suspension and get the work done before your MOT test.
9. Tyres
- Always look out for any bulges and check your tread depth on your tyres.
- It should be 1.6mm and an easy way to assess this is by sticking a 20p piece in between the grooves.
10. Warning Lights
- If any of the dashboard warning lights are showing, your vehicle simply won’t pass. Get a diagnostic test before the MOT Test to see if there’s a more serious problem that needs to be addressed.
11. Windscreen wipers
- If they’re leaving a smear on the screen or have any visible damage, you’ll need to get them replaced.
12. Vehicle Bodywork
Check for cracked mirrors, loose bumpers, corrosion and rough edges before you go in. The odd dent won’t be a problem as long as doors, bonnets and boots open and close properly and number plates aren’t cracked.
