What Are The TOP 10 MOT Failures 2020?

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With the MOT exemption coming to an end, the demand for MOT’s is set to soar over the next few months and drivers will be asking the question: What can fail an MOT?

It’s therefore important that the appropriate repair and maintenance is carried out before booking to avoid common MOT failures. 

Below, we’ve listed the most common MOT fails so that you can prepare ahead of time, and most importantly, to keep you and other road users as safe as possible.

1. Lights

A blown light bulb is one of the most common MOT failures, and one of the easiest to resolve. Before bringing your car in for an MOT, turn all of the lights on, including indicators and brake lights, to check everything is in working order. 

2. Windscreen wipers 

Faulty windscreen wipers are another common MOT fail. If you’re noticing that they’re leaving a smear on the screen or have any visible damage, you’ll need to get them replaced. Also look out for chips or cracks on the windscreen.

3. 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 or watch our guide on how to check your tyres tread depth.

4. Brakes

It goes without saying that good quality brakes are some of the most essential safety components on any vehicle. Bad brakes should be easy enough to spot – listen out for squealing or grinding as you’ll need to change your brake pads. It would also be worthwhile parking your car on a hill and checking out the handbrake.

5. Exhaust

Reducing emissions is high on the Government’s agenda and if they’re high it can lead to failure so make sure your exhaust is in good working order, especially if you have a diesel vehicle. Check for rust, corrosion, loose parts, missing mountings or missing silencer baffles. By taking your car for a spin on the motorway beforehand, it can run at high revs and gives the system a clear out.

6. Seatbelts and airbags

Seatbelts are another important safety feature and an MOT will make sure they all retract easily, so check for knots and twists. Make sure you haven’t got a missing airbag too – this should be fairly obvious as your vehicle should have a warning light. 

7. Steering

Power steering fluid is checked during an MOT so make sure you have a look to see if it’s reaching the minimum level before bringing your car in.

8. Suspension

If you have been hearing thumps or a knocking sound when going over bumps in the road, it could be a sign that there is something wrong with your suspension system. Make sure you take it in and get it checked out by a professional to avoid failing your MOT.

9. Registration plate

This one is pretty self-explanatory. If the plate isn’t visible or the light isn’t working, make sure you get it changed beforehand.

10. Vehicle exterior

If your car’s bodywork is a little tired, make sure you check for loose bumpers or rough edges as this could also result in an MOT failure.

Found that your car needs some work before its MOT? Find a local garage today!

Start by entering your registration to receive quotes!


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