top of page
  • Writer's pictureSophia Dee

Most Frequent Mot Failures

Updated: Aug 19, 2023

Even if you are certain that your automobile is in excellent condition, it only takes the skilled eye of an MOT Test in London tester to spot anything you have missed. Since over 30% of automobiles undergo MOT failures, you're not alone if your vehicle has experienced one. We'll go through the most typical MOT failures, the most probable cars to fail an MOT, and how to avoid failing. You fail your MOT if it has serious and hazardous flaws. Minor flaws must get fixed right away but won't cause the project to fail.


What MOT failures occur most frequently?


Almost all MOTs will do the same examinations, with the exception of an electric car MOT. With this in mind, figuring out what's examined in an MOT and the most typical MOT failures is pretty simple.



1. Lights, signals, and lamps


A stunning 26% of MOT failures are always caused by broken or blown lights, despite their appearance as a minor annoyance.


One of the simplest things to review before your test is these, and you can do it in a matter of minutes. Enlist assistance and have a buddy check your external lights as you drive the vehicle, and then double-check that all interior and dashboard lights are operational.


2. Suspension


It's hardly surprising that suspension contributes to 18% of failures given that the majority of UK drivers probably hit a pothole once a week.


A professional pre-MOT check may be helpful if you're concerned because it can be a little difficult to check this. You may still keep an ear out for any odd noises, though, particularly while negotiating corners and traveling over uneven ground.


3. Brakes


Even though they are one of the most crucial safety characteristics, defective brakes may be a quick path to failure and account for 17% of MOT failures. When using your brakes, you should listen out for any grinding or squeaking noises as this may indicate that they are functioning with excessive wear - read our article on how to inspect brake pads for more information. You should probably ask your repairer to have a look at it if your vehicle rolls a lot before stopping when you use the handbrake on a slope.


4. Tyres


Your only point of touch with the ground is through your tyres, which are also carrying the weight of the vehicle and its occupants. Tyre failures account for 12% of failures.


Legally, tyre tread depth must be at least 1.6mm, however, the 20p coin test allows you to rapidly determine this.


Your tyre should have properly inflated or deflated to the correct pressure level, and you should look for any physical defects or damage. A tutorial on how to check tyre pressure is available and should be helpful.


5. Visibility


Although it would appear that seeing the road is an essential part of driving, 8% of MOTs failed because of poor vision.


A lot of things that affect a driver's ability to see the road might cause low vision, so it's more than simply a chip or scratch on your windscreen that can cause you to fail. This could be due to faulty or damaged wipers on the windshield or any obstruction at the back.


What should you do if your vehicle fails its MOT?


If your automobile doesn't pass its MOT, it's not the end of the world. The price of an MOT test gets reduced in half the second time around as long as you get your car fixed and returned within 10 days.


Driving without an MOT certification is strictly forbidden unless you have a minor problem.


How to prevent an MOT failure


The simplest method to prevent these most typical MOT failures is to be ready before your scheduled test. This entails preparing everything you'll need to bring to an MOT, having a checklist for the test, or performing a pre-MOT inspection.


A pre-MOT check is one of the simplest ways for drivers to boost the chance that their automobile will pass. It entails quickly inspecting each area where your MOT is likely to find issues with. You may perform these yourself or have a professional do so, and doing so should help you feel more at ease before your vehicle's MOT because you'll know what to anticipate. Additionally, you must regularly stay on top of your Car Servicing London routine.

43 views0 comments

Recent Posts

See All

Why is Car Service A Necessity for All Vehicles?

While the mechanism of automobiles remains a significant marvel in our lives, managing and maintaining them may not be so easy. Using a vehicle also entails proper management and care. If users fail t

bottom of page