FRESH FAIL
I’m a car expert, these are 8 little-known ways you could fail the MOT from hanging fresheners to having damaged mirrors
An expert said 'seemly inconsequential elements' may actually lead to a failed MOT
A CAR expert has revealed eight little-known ways your car could fail an MOT - and how to avoid them.
For many drivers in the UK, the annual MOT (Ministry of Transport) test can be a fearful time.
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This crucial annual examination that every UK driver faces deems whether a vehicle is roadworthy and fit to drive - a factor that plays a vital role in ensuring the safety of both drivers and pedestrians.
While many motorists are aware of the common causes of MOT failures, such as defective brakes or worn tyres, few may realise that seemingly innocent factors can also lead to a failed MOT test.
Thankfully, the motor experts at InsureDaily.co.uk have revealed eight reasons why you could possibly fail your next MOT.
So, if you’re booking your car in for it’s next MOT, these are the common faults to be wary of.
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Hanging air freshener
Drivers may not even notice their hanging air fresheners, but the MOT test, however, deems these as a fault.
Any objects dangling from the rear-view mirror, including car air fresheners, pose a potential obscuring of the driver's view and are therefore considered safety hazards during the test.
Dirty number plate
Number plates coated with mud, dirt, or any obscuring material can be an unexpected cause of MOT failure.
Legal regulations stipulate that number plates must be clearly visible and readable at all times, so make sure you give your number plate a good clean before driving it to the test centre.
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Faulty horn
The horn is an essential vehicle safety feature, even though some drivers use it less regularly than others.
If the car horn is malfunctioning or emits insufficient volume to alert other road users, the vehicle will fail the MOT test.
Worn drivers seat
An excessively worn or unstable driver’s seat can result in a MOT failure.
This is because proper support from the seat is crucial for safe driving, and any form of compromise in this aspect is deemed unacceptable by MOT standards.
Dashboard warning lights
Active warning lights on the dashboard are more than just a mechanical caution, they can lead to an immediate MOT failure.
A full diagnostic check and rectification of any illuminated warning lights are necessary before the test.
Poor windscreen wipers
Windscreen wipers that fail to clear the windscreen effectively account for many MOT failures, as driver visibility in all weather conditions is essential.
As windscreen wipers can be fairly inexpensive, we’d suggest purchasing new one's and fitting them prior to your MOT taking place.
Incorrect headlight beam aim
Headlamps aimed too high or too low are dangerous as they can dazzle other drivers who are driving towards you.
On top of this, headlamps being too high or low can also inadequately light the road, resulting in a failed MOT.
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Damaged mirrors
Mirrors, both internal and external, are crucial for a clear view of the road around the entire vehicle.
Missing, faulty, or substantially damaged mirrors will invariably result in a MOT failure.
How to get an MOT for your car
EVERY UK driver must get an annual MOT for their vehicle to ensure it's roadworthy and fit to drive.
Not everyone, however, is confident on how an MOT works or how to go about booking one.
What is an MOT?
The MOT test checks that your vehicle meets road safety and environmental standards.
An MOT is comprehensive and covers a wide range of vehicle aspects, not just the major mechanical components.
When do I book one?
You can get an MOT up to a month (minus a day) before it runs out.
To find out when it runs out you can either check your MOT history online via or check the date that’s printed on your current MOT certificate, if you have one.
An MOT lasts for a year.
What happens if it runs out?
If your MOT has run out, then book an MOT test as soon as you can.
You can book one at your local garage or MOT centre.
You cannot legally drive or park your vehicle on the road if the MOT has run out. You can be prosecuted if caught.
You can, however, drive it to or from somewhere to be repaired.
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