An annual MoT test is required for vehicles more than three years old, and for many motorists, the experience can be quite daunting.
It’s estimated that around 1.5 million vehicles in the UK fail their MoT each year because of small issues – such as a faulty horn, a broken windscreen wiper or a dodgy bulb. These are often cheap and easy to fix yourself before your test.
A quick 15-minute self-check can help you spot minor problems in advance. It could mean the difference between a pass or a fail.
Checklist to help your car pass its next MoT
Below is a simple list of checks you can carry out yourself before booking your MoT.
- Number plates: give your number plates a clean and make sure the letter and number spacing, style and size all meet legal requirements.
- Horn: give the horn a quick test. It’s a crucial safety feature, and if it doesn’t work, your car will fail the MoT.
- Lights: check all lights—headlights, rear lights, sidelights, indicators and hazard lights. Ask a friend or family member to stand behind the car to check the brake lights are working.
- Wheels and tyres: inspect all tyres (including the spare) for cracks, cuts or bulges. Check tread depth – the legal minimum is 1.6mm. Most experts recommend replacing tyres once they reach 3mm.
- Windscreen and wipers: look for windscreen damage. Any crack or chip over 40mm is a fail. In the driver’s line of sight, damage over 10mm is not allowed. Check the wiper blades too – damaged or ineffective wipers can also cause a fail.
- Screenwash: top up your washer bottle. An empty bottle is a common (and avoidable) reason for failure.
- Seat belts and seats: check the driver’s seat adjusts properly. Inspect all seat belts for frays or damage and give them a strong tug to ensure they lock as they should during hard braking.
- Fuel and oil levels: MoT test centres may refuse to test your car if it doesn’t have enough oil or fuel, so check both before you arrive.
Ready to pass your MoT?
This simple checklist should help you prepare your car for its MoT and give you peace of mind knowing you’ve set yourself up for success.
At Flexed, we understand that MoTs can be stressful – especially if you’re driving an older car that may be prone to faults. That’s why we love helping people find the perfect new lease car.
With a Flexed short-term lease, you get a flexible lease that lets you drive a new car without the large upfront cost of buying. Newer cars mean fewer MoT worries, fewer service issues and fewer unexpected breakdowns.
Our car subscriptions include servicing, road tax, manufacturer warranty, breakdown cover, roadside assistance and more – so you can drive with confidence knowing you’re in safe hands.
If you’re looking for a new car or want to explore whether a short-term lease is right for you, check out our full range of vehicles or get in touch with our team at 0800 311 8290.
