MOT checklist

Here are some of the simple things you can check before taking your car for an MOT test

By Gavin Braithwaite-Smith November 16, 2022

According to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), around 50% of all faults found during the annual MOT test could have been avoided by carrying out regular maintenance or by doing some basic checks before the inspection.

Amazingly, around 1.5 million vehicles fail the test due to simple things such as faulty bulbs, insufficient tyre tread or an empty washer fluid bottle. Failing an MOT test is a hassle you could do without, especially if it means being without a car for a longer period of time.

The DVSA revealed that lights, reflectors and electrical equipment have been the most failed MOT items for the last three years. This is backed up by figures released by the RAC, which show that nearly a fifth of cars fail their MOT because of an issue with their lights.

This illuminating statistic should prompt you into carrying out some basic checks before the MOT test. Don’t leave it until the last minute; give yourself enough time to order basic items like bulbs, windscreen wipers or washer fluid. It could be the difference between passing first time or receiving the dreaded phone call from the garage.

Lights

It’s the most common reason for a car to fail an MOT, so it seems blindingly obvious to start with the lights. Checking the headlights, sidelights, fog lights and indicators is easy, but you might need to ask a friend to assist with making sure the reversing and brake lights are operating as they should. Alternatively, park in front of a window and use the reflection.

Don’t just concentrate on the bulbs; check the condition of the lenses, as any damage or significant cracks will result in a failed test. Remember to check the main beam and high-level brake light, as these are often missed.

The MOT tester will also check the headlight aim, along with the self-levelling and cleaning functions (if applicable). Your car will fail the test if the main beam warning light isn’t working, so check the dashboard.

Number plates

The number plates will be checked for condition, secure attachment, colour and the correct spacing of the characters. Getting new number plates made up won’t be the work of five minutes. They can only be sourced from a registered number plate supplier, who will need to see original documents to prove your name and address, and show that you’re allowed to use the registration number.

A few marks on the plates won’t result in a failed MOT test, but you might get an advisory if it’s becoming difficult to read the characters. That’s your warning to get some new plates made up before the next test.

Wheels and tyres

Check that the wheels and tyres are undamaged. If in doubt, ask for advice at your local tyre fitters, but don’t leave it until the last minute. The minimum tyre tread depth is 1.6mm, and anything less than this will be marked as a ‘fail’.

For safety reasons, it’d be worth changing the tyres when the tread reaches a depth of 3mm. Spare wheels and tyres are not inspected, but cars first used on or after 1 January 2012 will be checked to make sure the tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) is operating correctly.

Windscreen

Check the windscreen for damage, cracks or anything obscuring your view of the road ahead. The important thing to remember is that the MOT tester is checking the driver’s field of vision through the windscreen; you don’t need to have a totally clear view of the sky or bonnet.

Damage of more than 10mm in diameter in the area immediately in front of the driver will result in a fail. The car will also fail its MOT if the tester spots any damage of more than 40mm in diameter in the remainder of the windscreen swept by the wipers. You should also check the side windows for damage.

Again, although it’s easy to inspect the windscreen before the MOT test, it could take weeks to arrange a repair or replacement. It’s also worth noting that it’s possible to repair some chips or cracks if you act quickly enough.

Windscreen wipers and washers

While you’re looking at the windscreen, check the wipers to make sure they’re working. The wiper blades should be free of damage or cracks, and it’s worth noting that replacements are likely to be cheaper if you buy in advance rather than relying on a distress purchase at the MOT test station.

Don’t forget to check the washer fluid bottle. You don’t necessarily have to use washer fluid – water will be fine if you discover an empty bottle moments before the test. Add some proper fluid at a later date, especially during the winter months.

Other fluids

Your car will need to have sufficient engine oil and fuel in order for the MOT tester to carry out the emissions checks. The engine oil should be between the minimum and maximum marks on the dipstick under the bonnet, while the low fuel light shouldn’t be on when the technician starts the test.

Also check the level of the power steering fluid in the reservoir. If it’s empty or below the minimum mark, your car will fail the MOT. If the steering feels heavy, it’s likely that the system is malfunctioning. Again, this is an MOT failure.

Seats and seat belts

Your car will be inspected to check that the seat belts are in place and suitable for the vehicle. They must be in good condition, work correctly and be securely attached. The MOT tester will also check that the driver’s seat can be adjusted and all seats are securely fitted and that the seat backs can be fixed in the upright position.

Exhaust

It might not be possible to inspect the entire exhaust system before an MOT, but listen out for any rattles or signs of damage. Also make sure that the exhaust is secure and complete. If it sounds a bit noisy, it most probably is!

Horn

This one’s nice and simple but so easily overlooked. Check that the horn works properly. It must also be suitable for the car, so be wary of any aftermarket horns you might be looking at.

Warning lights

Dashboard warning lights indicating a problem with your car’s engine, ABS, traction control, headlight main beam, brake fluid level, power steering fluid and seat belts will result in an MOT failure. Some will illuminate when you switch on the ignition, but they should go out when the engine is started.

Battery

A car will fail its MOT if the tester deems the battery to be insecure. Tighten the clamp prior to the MOT test.

General condition of the vehicle

We have outlined some of the basic checks you can do before an MOT, but the list is far from exhaustive. Other items are harder to check, especially for drivers with no mechanical experience, but you can use some common sense.

Listen out for knocking noises from the suspension or grinding of the brakes. Take a look at the general condition of the body, as any rust on the outside might point to some serious corrosion underneath.

Another top tip is to check the car’s MOT history via the government’s website. Fixing any advisories from the previous MOT will increase your chances of passing first time. Good luck.