What can fail an MOT?

Friday 10th January 2020

According to 2019 figures from the DVSA, 31% of all vehicles initially failed their MOT tests. But what fails an MOT, and how can you prevent your vehicle from failing? Our detailed guide on the most common reasons for MOT failures has you covered.

What can a car fail an MOT on?

Your annual MOT includes inspection and testing of a variety of elements, including steering, suspension, seat belts, body structure and more. For everything that’s included in an MOT, read our detailed guide. So, what can fail an MOT? Here are some of the most common elements that can fail an MOT test:

• Tyres – tyres are an extremely common cause of MOT failure, as elements such as tyre pressure and tread depth will be checked. Also, remember to check your spare tyre, too!
• Brakes – according to the DVSA, 10% of MOTs fail on brakes. And even if your brakes do not fail your MOT, you may be issued advisories based on the fact your brake pads are worn.
• Seatbelts – if your seatbelt is cut or frayed, or if the belt is unable to clip into the holder, this may result in a fail of your MOT.
• Lighting – according to the DVSA, nearly a fifth of all vehicles fail their MOTs because of lighting issues.
• Suspension – suspension issues aren’t always the easiest to spot, but they’re a MOT failure reason that shouldn’t be forgotten about. Our experts at Formula One Autocentres will check your suspension thoroughly, but before your test, you can also pay attention to unusual clunk noises, or if your vehicle looks level when parked up.
• Visibility – obstruction to the windscreen, such as car air fresheners, ineffective windscreen wipers or Sat Navs, can also be a reason for your vehicle to fail its MOT.

Now you know what fails an MOT through our list of most common causes, you may want to take measures in order to prevent failing your test. Read up on our handy MOT preparation tips from easy home checks you can make, to ensuring your vehicle is in a good condition before the big test.

If your vehicle has failed its MOT, you might be wondering what happens next – read our detailed guides on what happens if your car fails its MOT now, including whether you can drive without an MOT and appealing failed MOTs. Alternatively, book in for your MOT today from your local Formula One Autocentre branch.