Having a MOT check is required every year to confirm that a vehicle meets the proper safety and environmental standards in the UK. Although a passing MOT is good news for your car’s roadworthiness, a failure means you have to fix the problem and pay fees for the retake. Why do some cars not meet the requirements for an Mot Class 7? This article will cover the main issues that result in MOT test failures and how you can prevent them.
What is an MOT Test?
If your car is more than three years old you need to go for an annual MOT test. It involves testing a number of safety aspects, for example, the state of the brakes and the gasses released by the engine. When your vehicle gets a pass, you get a confirmation that the car is safe to drive on British roads.
Common Reasons for MOT Failures
1. Worn or Faulty Brakes
A common cause for failing an MOT test is a brake-related problem. During an MOT, the condition of the brakes, brake pads, and braking components are checked, in addition to fluid levels and break performance. If your car’s brakes are no longer working properly, they will cause your car to fail inspection.
Preventive tip: Check your brakes every so often and have them inspected or replaced every 20,000 miles or whenever you notice squealing, need to press the brake pedal harder for the same stopping distance, or if the pedal press does not seem firm enough.
2. Suspension Issues
Its main job is to smoothen out road bumps and keep the car under control. Worn part such as shock absorber coil spring or suspension bushes may result in the car not passing the MOT test. If the suspension is not working properly it can change how the car steers and reduces its safety.
Preventive tip: Look out for strange noises for example when going over bumps as they may be a sign of an issue. These could indicate suspension wear.
3. Lighting and Signaling Problems
Visibility and making signals are very important functions of your vehicle’s lights. Problems with vehicle lights or the signaling system are among the most common reasons for an MOT failure.
Broken or dim headlights
Non-functional indicators or reversing lights
Preventive tip: It is important to inspect your lights every so often to see if they are working properly. It is important to check the functions of your headlights, brake lights, indicator lights and interior lights prior to the MOT test evaluation.
4. Tire Wear and Tear
The car grip and safety greatly depend on the tires. Make sure each tires tread is still at least 1.6mm thick in the main part of its tread. Should tires be in bad shape bald or damaged they will cause the car to fail the MOT.
Preventive tip: Keep an eye on your tires as they can easily get damaged or worn out. Adjust the tires so they all wear out evenly.
5. Emissions and Engine Performance
Part of an MOT test involves checking car emission to ensure they do not cause damage to environment. The reason for failing the emission test could be due to trouble in engine exhaust system or fuel injectors. A faulty catalytic converter or misfiring engine can be reason for this issue.
Preventive tip: You can reduce the risk of emissions issues by servicing your car regularly using the correct fuel and making sure your engine is well maintained.
6. Faulty Windscreen Wipers and Washers
If it is raining or snowing windscreen wipers and washers will keep you safe and clear your view of the road. If the wipers are missing broken unresponsive if the windscreen wipers cannot do a proper job or if there is no washer fluid your car will not be approved at the MOT test.
Preventive tip: Check your wiper routinely to see if they are starting to wear down or have any cracks or damage. Switch to a different kind if the existing one does not leave the screen clean or leave any streaks.
7. Rust or Damage to the Vehicle’s Chassis or Body
The expert checks below the car and in its structure for any big problems caused by corrosion or damage. Vehicle can fail inspection if there are severe body corrosion or damage to chassis.
Preventive tip: Be aware of rust in the areas found near the wheels under the car and by the doors. Taking care of your car properly by using a car maintenance checklist and regular maintenance will delay the effects of corrosion. For those performing their own vehicle inspections and repairs, My Garage Supplies offers helpful insights—like whether single post car lifts are safe—that can make DIY maintenance more efficient and secure.
Step-by-Step Guide to Get Ready for Your MOT
Get Your Car Serviced Regularly: Regular servicing can catch usual MOT test problem such as one involving brake and suspension.
Check Tires Lights and Wipers: It is important to check the lights tires and wipers of your car before taking it in for an MOT.
Check the Car Fluids: Ensure that your car has enough oil coolant brake fluid and windshield washer fluid.
Conclusion
While vehicle failing its MOT test may cause annoyance it also help ensure your car is safe on road. Caring for your vehicle through regular check and fixing small issue like brake wear and loose connection in your suspension and lighting can increase your likelihood of passing MOT and keep it in good shape.