Top Reasons Why Cars Fail MOT Tests and How to Avoid Them

Even those who are most certain and self-assured drivers may find their yearly MOT tests frightening since, no matter how competent you are, there is no assurance that the vehicle is in similarly good condition. In reality, according to the government’s statistics for 2015–16, more than 36% of vehicles failed their MOTs on the first try.

Additionally, which equates to roughly 7.8 million MOT tests, while the average failure was caused by nearly three problems. Many of the flaws that led to the failures are simple to fix and should have been fixed before the test. This short tutorial that we’ve put up outlines the most typical errors and how you can avoid them. Remember to take help from experts that can be contacted through MOT Walsall.

Signaling Using Lights:

The cause of the majority of failures is blown bulbs, which are also among the easiest and least expensive to replace. Enlist a buddy to assist you in evaluating the operation of all the lights before the test, including the front, and rear, indicators (which include side repeaters), brake lights (such as central repeaters), and fog lights. Failure is also possible if you forget to take off the headlight deflectors before driving in Europe. When you go to your home, double-check that they are removed.

Suspension:

Your vehicle’s suspension takes a beating on Britain’s potholed, uneven roads, and suspension problems are becoming more frequent — appearing in more than 1 in 10 MOT tests.  Short of crawling under the vehicle, there isn’t much you can do before the test to avoid a failure; alternatively, schedule your yearly service right before the test, when a professional will inform you.

Brakes: 

You do not require us to tell you how crucial your brakes are; nonetheless, problems with the braking system cause one in ten automobiles to fail their MOT tests. That’s a concerning number, given that the majority of the flaws are going to be pretty visible. If you hear your brakes screeching or grinding, this indicates that the pads are getting low.

Would it pull to one side when braking or halt in a straight line? Is the brake disc’s surface smooth? How thick are the brake pads? Handbrake problems can contribute to numerous automobile failures. Put the brakes on and come to a full halt on a slope. Can it support the vehicle in question? If not, it could need to be adjusted.

Tyres:

Tyre tread depth is crucial, and if yours is determined to be inadequate (less than 1.6mm). Your car isn’t going to pass its MOT tests so now is the right time to replace your tyres. In actuality, problems with tread depth account for 14% of MOT tests failures. Many manufacturers advise replacing tires whenever they have less than 3mm of tread depth, but it is up to the owner of the car to decide whether to do so. If stopped by the authorities, you risk receiving a £2,500 fine and 3 penalty points if your tire is less than 1.6mm.

Driver’s View of the Road:

A cracked glass or even just leaving a phone cradle fixed to the windscreen. Furthermore, throughout the exam might cause your automobile to fail since visibility is crucial. Fill the reservoir and check that the pump continues to work normally before assuming that your windshield washers are functional as well.

Any cradles or stickers should be taken off, and windshield chips ought to be filled with resin before they become cracks. Additionally, make sure that at least one rearview mirror is functional and changeable; replacement, stick-on mirror coverings are easily accessible and reasonably priced.

Airbags and Seatbelts:

Spend a few minutes untangling any tangled or knotted seat belts. And make sure they are all securely fastened to the seat without separating. Seat belts should retract. Failures may originate from missing airbags or airbag warning lights on your dashboard. Warning lights that were accidentally turned on are often able to be reset at a repair shop for a nominal price.

Body and Framework:

The only thing you can do to prevent rust is to wash your vehicle often throughout the winter, whenever corrosive sand and salt accumulate in the wheel arches. However, any loose or sharp edges may contribute to failure. Therefore, promptly fix any accident damage, such as loose bumpers.

Windows Wipers:

Windscreen wipers account for 12% of MOT tests fails. While it may come as no surprise that they would fail if they had evident rips or harm. Another consideration is whether or not they left stains on the windscreen after being used. Your car is going to fail the examination if they do. Your windscreen wipers‘ rubber may be changed out quite quickly and simply. Often, just the wiper’s ‘blade’ needs to be replaced. The streaks can sometimes be eliminated by removing a little stone that has become lodged.

Final Words:

Although it is simple to advise people to “look after their cars,” certain problems are inevitable and not necessarily your own doing. Having a regular service schedule is the best way to prevent failing your MOT tests. Every few thousand miles or a few months, they may be installed. The majority of dealerships and mechanics offer new service contracts. And many new automobiles come with a service plan.