When your MOT comes around you hope that your car passes the test without it costing too much of your hard-earned cash.
You never know if it’s going to sail through with no problems or if there are a load of defects that need patching up before you can get back on the road.
However, there are some things you can do to give your car a better chance of passing its MOT the first time. And thankfully, you’ll find them all right here…
Give your tyres some TLC
The most common reason for MOT failures in 2023 was defective tyres, according to research from Green Flag.
Defective tyres fall under the ‘dangerous’ category for MOT failures, and it means you need an immediate repair before you can legally drive on the road again. It also wipes out any remaining days you have left on your current MOT.
Having to replace tyres to get through your MOT can be expensive, but if you try to stay on top of them with regular checks, you can avoid a big bill when your test arrives.
Katie Lomas, managing director of Green Flag, said: “Given that defective tyres are a major source of MOT failures, it’s important that people take regular steps to ensure they’re keeping their vehicles safe and legal.
“Take a 20 pence piece and run it through the grooves of the tyre to check that the tread is at least 1.6mm deep. If the rim around the edge of the coin stands proud, the tyre will need replacing. Also check for any cuts or bulges in the tyre sidewall and for any objects that might be embedded into the tyre.
“Remember, if you think there might be a problem with your car, don’t wait for the MOT, take it to a professional to be checked right away.”
What else to look out for
The other common reasons for MOT failures have remained the same for the past four years. These include problems with:
- Lamps, reflectors and indicators
- Suspension
- Brakes
Problems like these can be picked up during regular services and checks you can do yourself.
How to get your car MOT-ready
To be in with a better chance of getting that MOT pass at the first time of asking, you can take a few simple steps to get ready.
- Make sure your number plates are clean and readable
- Check your windscreen wipers are in good condition
- Test your lights to see if they all work as they should
- Top up your fluids (brakes, screenwash and oil)
- Check that your mirrors are intact and secure so you can use them safely
If you need help booking your MOT, we’ve made it super easy with our friends at FixMyCar.
In just a few simple steps you can find a quality local garage to do your test at a time and date that suits you.