Taking your car for an MOT can feel like a bit of a chore, but it’s an essential one. The MOT test is crucial for keeping your vehicle safe and roadworthy. If your car doesn’t pass, you’ll need to fix any issues before you can drive it again legally. However, a little preparation can make a big difference. It’s not as complicated as it may seem, and with the right steps, you’ll increase your chances of passing on the first try. Let’s go through what you should do before taking your car for an MOT.
1. Check Your Lights
One of the most common reasons cars fail the MOT is faulty lights. This includes headlights, brake lights, indicators, and even your number plate light. It’s easy to check these yourself.
Start your car and turn on each set of lights one by one. Walk around your vehicle to ensure each light is working correctly. Don’t forget to ask a friend or family member to help you check the brake lights. If you find a light isn’t working, it’s often just a case of changing a bulb. You can do this yourself with a bit of guidance, or you can take it to a garage.
2. Test Your Tyres
Your tyres are another critical area. They’re your car’s only contact with the road, so they need to be in good shape. The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre. However, it’s safer to replace them once they reach 3mm.
You can check the tread depth using a 20p coin. Insert the coin into the tread grooves; if the outer band of the coin is visible, your tread is too low, and it’s time to get new tyres. Also, inspect the tyres for any cuts, bulges, or uneven wear. Don’t forget to check the tyre pressure too. Correctly inflated tyres help with fuel efficiency and make your car safer to drive.
3. Inspect Your Brakes
Brakes are vital for safety. If you notice any signs that your brakes aren’t working as well as they should, like squealing noises, a soft brake pedal, or your car pulling to one side, get them checked by a professional before your MOT.
It’s not something you can easily check yourself, but you can do a basic test. Drive slowly in a safe area and apply the brakes gently. The car should stop smoothly and without any strange noises. If something feels off, it’s best to have a mechanic take a look.
4. Clean Your Car Inside and Out
While a clean car doesn’t directly affect most of the MOT tests, it does make a good impression. More importantly, the tester needs to see things clearly. Dirt on your windscreen or mirrors can affect visibility, which is crucial for safety. Also, a dirty car may hide damage that could lead to a failed MOT.
Inside, clear away any clutter. Make sure the seatbelts are easily accessible, and the seatbelt sockets aren’t buried under things. The tester will check all seatbelts to ensure they’re in good working order. Also, ensure your dashboard warning lights are all working and that your car’s odometer is visible.
5. Check Your Windscreen
The windscreen is a key safety feature. Any damage to it, especially in the driver’s line of sight, can result in an MOT fail.
Take a close look at your windscreen. Chips or cracks larger than 10mm in the area directly in front of the driver, or larger than 40mm anywhere else, will need to be repaired. Many minor chips can be fixed without replacing the whole windscreen, and some insurance policies cover these repairs for free.
6. Top Up Fluids
Your car relies on various fluids to run smoothly, and low levels can cause problems during an MOT. Check your engine oil first. If you’ve never done it before, it’s straightforward. Remove the dipstick, wipe it clean, then reinsert it fully. Pull it out again and check the oil level against the markers on the dipstick. If it’s low, top it up with the correct type of oil for your car.
Next, check the coolant level. This is especially important if the test is during the warmer months. Low coolant can lead to overheating, which is not only dangerous but also a fail in the MOT.
Don’t forget to check your brake fluid and power steering fluid levels too. If you’re unsure where to find these or how to check them, your car’s manual will have all the information you need.
7. Listen for Unusual Noises
Strange noises can be a sign that something isn’t quite right with your car. Pay attention to any rattles, squeaks, or grinding sounds when you’re driving. These can indicate issues with the exhaust, suspension, or brakes, all of which are checked during the MOT.
If you notice anything out of the ordinary, it’s worth getting it checked by a mechanic before your test. Sometimes, these noises are caused by minor issues, but other times they can signal more significant problems.
8. Ensure Your Wipers Are Working
Your windscreen wipers might seem like a small detail, but they’re essential for keeping your windscreen clear in poor weather. If they aren’t working properly, it can lead to an MOT fail.
Make sure your wipers are in good condition. They shouldn’t leave streaks or miss large patches when in use. Also, check that your windscreen washer fluid is topped up. It’s a small thing, but it can make a difference.
9. Check Your Exhaust
The exhaust system is another area that’s closely inspected during an MOT. It should be secure, without any holes or leaks.
Listen to your car when it’s running. If you hear any unusual noises, like a loud roar or a hissing sound, it might indicate a problem with the exhaust. Excessive smoke from the exhaust can also be a sign of trouble. If you’re unsure, it’s best to have it checked by a professional before your MOT.
10. Check Your Registration Plate
It’s easy to overlook your registration plate, but it’s an important part of the MOT. The plate needs to be clean, correctly attached, and clearly visible. The characters should be in the correct font, and the spacing between them should be accurate.
Also, ensure the plate is illuminated by a working light. This is especially important if your test is scheduled for later in the day when visibility might be lower.
11. Review Your Vehicle’s MOT History
If you’ve had your car for a while, it’s a good idea to look back at its previous MOT results. This can give you an insight into any recurring issues that might cause it to fail again. The government’s online service allows you to check your car’s MOT history by entering the registration number.
Reviewing this information can help you focus on areas that have been problematic in the past. If you notice a pattern, it’s worth addressing those issues before your next test.
12. Take a Test Drive
Finally, take your car for a short drive before the MOT. Pay attention to how it feels. Does it start smoothly? Are there any unusual vibrations or noises? Does it steer straight, or does it pull to one side? How does it handle corners?
A short drive can help you identify any last-minute issues that you might not notice otherwise. If everything feels right, you’re probably good to go.
Final Thoughts
Preparing your car for an MOT doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By taking the time to check these areas, you’re not only increasing your chances of passing the test but also ensuring your car is safe to drive. Regular maintenance and checks are key to keeping your vehicle in good condition.
Remember, if you’re ever unsure about anything, it’s always best to consult a professional. A trusted mechanic can provide guidance and help you fix any issues before the test. By staying on top of these tasks, you’ll make the MOT process smoother and less stressful.
So, the next time your MOT is due, you’ll know exactly what to do to give your car the best chance of passing with flying colours. Happy driving!
