Before their MOT, even the most assured and self-assured drivers can experience some anxiety. What can be helpful is taking proactive action and learning from other people’s mistakes.
After analyzing the data, we have determined which items are most likely to fail a MOT. You’ll know which car parts to look out for and how to improve your chances of passing your next MOT Manchester after reading this article.
What is classed as a failure on the MOT?
Defects are categorized by MOT test centers as minor, major, or dangerous. The test is deemed unsuccessful if the examiner finds a significant and dangerous flaw in the vehicle. Small flaws don’t matter enough to cause an exam failure.
During MOT tests, a lot of things are checked, so there’s a chance that any part could have a serious and dangerous defect. Naturally, some problems are more prevalent than others; we’ll discuss those in a moment.
Why do cars fail MOTs?
The state of any car deteriorates with time. Additionally, it is common for cars to sustain damage, particularly from frequent use. A mechanic can usually fix these in a day or two. However, these small flaws grow into significant problems if the vehicle owner ignores routine maintenance duties. At that point, it goes from normal wear to a MOT failure.
Naturally, there might be additional causes for cars to become undriveable. For instance, the vehicle may have a manufacturing flaw or have been in an accident and not been properly repaired. Regardless of the cause, be sure to respond to them promptly.
What typical MOT failures exist?
Let’s talk about MOT failures right now. While most of the points below apply to all cars, some of these fails are not relevant for a MOT on an electric vehicle.
1. Headlights
Even though blown headlights are among the simplest and least expensive problems to fix, they are the main cause of MOT failures. Even in the daytime, poor lighting conditions or the wrong direction of your headlights can also cause you to fail. Beam deflectors, however, are not regarded as MOT failures.
2. Suspension
In the UK, suspension failures occur in approximately every tenth test. Spring, shock absorber, arms, rods, struts, sub-frames, anti-roll bars, joints, pins, and bushes are among the parts that the inspector will examine. All components must be firmly fastened, and no obvious leaks or corrosion should exist.
3. Brakes
There will be a lot of ground for the inspector to cover, and a failed MOT could occur for any number of reasons. The brake fluid and its state (service, secondary, parking, electronic) usually raise the most concerns. It is nearly a given that brakes that have not been serviced after 50,000 miles will fail you.
4. Tyres
The following are a few of the most common tyre failures: improper aspect ratios of the tyres, low thread width, lumps, bulges or tears; a malfunctioning tyre pressure monitoring system; and non-compliance with manufacturer’s instructions. Many test failures are also related to sidewall damage, which is frequently brought on by stretched tyres.7. Piloting
5. A Driver’s View of the Road
Anything that makes it difficult for the driver to see, such as large phone cradles mounted on the windscreen, excessive scratching, cracks, and stickers, won’t be allowed. A significant common MOT failure will also result from missing or non-functioning washers. Check the obscuration of the view from the driver’s seat, as that is where it will be judged.
6. Fuel and Exhaust
Given that emissions are a growing source of fuel system failures, the majority of pre-test fuel treatment packs aid in cleaning the fuel system. Verify that the manufacturer-installed emission control equipment is in good working order and does not leak or emit visibly black smoke.
7. Body and Structure
A failure will occur right away if the body is unstable and the structural rigidity is significantly decreased. The load-bearing structural components, engine mountings, fasteners, bumpers, spare wheel carrier (if equipped), and towing apparatus will all be examined by the tester. Not one of them can be overly worn, loose, or damaged.
8. Steering
The main issues are typically related to excessive wear on the handlebars, steering wheel, and column as well as free play in the steering and power steering fluid not reaching the minimum level. The vehicle won’t pass if any parts are thought to be possibly detectable while being driven.
10. Registration Plates
Deterioration is the most evident, yet most frequent issue with number plates. It’s possible that your car won’t work because the licence plates are dirty, faded, or scuffed.
11. Brake lights
Rear-position brake lamps that don’t emit a steady red light or light up slowly will be marked as failed by the tester. Similar to headlamps, pre-MOT brake light problems ought to be fairly simple to resolve.
12. Direction Indicators
Repairs occasionally overlook the amber light that direction indicators are required to emit. The indicator light frequency, which needs to be between 60 and 120 times per minute, will also be examined by the centre.
You should give priority to all of the typical MOT failures that are discussed. It’s crucial to remember, too, that they are not the only items that need Car Service Manchester and repair. Maintaining your complete vehicle in good operating condition, independent of MOT testing, for your own safety and comfort.
