What checks can I do before my MOT?

Essential Checks to Do Before Your MOT (And Improve Your Chances of Passing)

An MOT test is a legal requirement in the UK to ensure your car is safe, roadworthy, and meets environmental standards. Failing your MOT can be inconvenient, but the good news is that many failures are caused by simple issues you can address beforehand. In this guide, we’ll explain the essential checks you can do before your MOT, plus some good practices to give your car the best chance of passing.

1. Check Your Lights

Faulty lights are among the most common MOT failures. Before your test:

Headlights: Test both dipped and full beams to ensure they work.
Indicators and Hazard Lights: Check all indicators and hazards for proper functionality.
Brake Lights: Ask someone to press the brake pedal while you check the lights at the rear.
Number Plate Lights: Ensure the light above your number plate is functioning—it’s often overlooked.
Fog Lights: Rear fog lights are required; ensure they’re working properly.

💡 Tip: Replace any blown bulbs or cracked lenses before the test.

2. Test Your Brakes

Brakes are critical for safety, so they’ll be closely inspected during your MOT. To prepare:

Brake Pedal: Press the pedal to check it feels firm and responsive.
Handbrake: Ensure the handbrake holds the car securely on a slope.
Listen for Noises: Grinding or squeaking sounds may indicate worn brake pads or discs that need attention.
Check your Brake Fluid Level and Condition: Check that the fluid is between the minimum and maximum marks on your brake fluid reservoir. Brake fluid should be amber in colour – black fluid indicates excessive moisture in the system which is dangerous.
Visually Inspect your Brakes: Heavy grooves or large lips on the discs could give you an advisory, or worse, a fail. Pads should be replaced once they reach a thickness of 3mm, or immediately if they are wearing unevenly.

3. Inspect Your Tyres

Your tyres must meet legal standards to pass an MOT. Here’s what to check:

Tread Depth: The legal minimum is 1.6mm across the central 75% of the tyre. Use a tread depth gauge or the edge of a 20p coin to check.
Condition: Look for cracks, bulges, or cuts in the sidewalls.
Pressure: Inflate your tyres to the correct pressure as specified in your car’s manual.

🚨 Warning: Damaged or underinflated tyres are a common cause of MOT failure, so don’t overlook them.

4. Check Your Windscreen and Wipers

Good visibility is essential for passing your MOT. Here’s what to do:

Windscreen Damage: Cracks or chips larger than 10mm in the driver’s line of sight or 40mm elsewhere on the windscreen could result in a fail.
Wipers: Ensure they clear the screen effectively without smearing. Replace worn or damaged blades.
Washer Fluid: Top up your washer fluid reservoir—it’s an instant fail if it’s empty.

5. Remove Obstructions and Child Seats

Obstructions to your visibility or access to key areas can lead to an MOT failure.

Clear Your Windscreen and Dashboard: Remove stickers, air fresheners, and other items from the windscreen and driver’s view.
Remove Child Seats: If child seats block access to the seatbelt sockets, they should be removed before the test to avoid an advisory from the tester.

💡 Good Practice: Tidy up the car interior to make it easier for the mechanic to inspect.

6. Check Your Number Plates

Your number plates must meet legal requirements:

Cleanliness: Dirty plates can be difficult to read, so give them a wipe.
Condition: Plates should not be cracked, faded, or damaged.
Format: Ensure the font and spacing comply with UK standards.

7. Check for Fluid Levels and Leaks

Leaking fluids can lead to a failed MOT. Here’s what to inspect:

Oil: Use the dipstick to check the oil level and top up if necessary.
Coolant: Ensure the coolant level is within the recommended range.
Brake Fluid: Check that the brake fluid reservoir is topped up.
Look for Leaks: Check under the car for signs of oil, coolant, or other fluid leaks.

8. Test Your Horn

A working horn is required for your car to pass its MOT. Give it a quick press to ensure it’s functional and loud enough.

9. Check Your Seatbelts

Seatbelts are crucial for safety and will be inspected during your MOT.

Locking Mechanisms: Ensure they click securely into place.
Condition: Look for fraying, tears, or other damage.
Recoil: Check that they retract properly when released.

10. General Good Practice

Clean the Car: A clean car, inside and out, makes it easier for the mechanic to conduct the test.
Check All Doors and Mirrors: Doors should open and close properly, and mirrors must be intact and secure.
Listen for Odd Noises: Any strange noises while driving could indicate an issue that needs attention.

What If You Spot Issues?

If you find any problems during these checks, don’t wait until the MOT test itself. Address them beforehand to avoid a fail. Many garages offer a pre-MOT check, which can help identify and fix issues in advance.

Book Your Pre-MOT Check Today!

At The Dalby Group, we’re here to help you pass your MOT with ease. Whether you need a pre-MOT check, minor repairs, or expert advice, we’ve got you covered. On most occasions, we can sort out MOT-failing faults the same day that we identify them.

📞 Call us on 01903 372937 to book your pre-MOT check.
📍 We come to you! If you’re in Sussex, Surrey, or Hampshire, we’ll visit to give you some peace of mind before your MOT.
🌐 Learn more at www.thedalbygroup.co.uk/repair-services and book your appointment online.

With a little preparation, you can avoid unnecessary MOT failures and keep your car roadworthy. Contact us today!

The Dalby Group Ltd