Did you know that you could easily avoid almost 50% of MOT failures, as they stem from simple things that could have been checke and fixed before the test? Before the test, you must spend some time checking over your vehicle, as it makes all the big difference between passing and failing the test. If you think it’s a waste of time, you are wrong as a self-check is worth the time before the dreaded test. In this article, we have prepared a complete MOT checklist to help you prepare for the test and give your car the best chance of passing the MOT Bradford on its first attempt.
Check List To Follow For a Smooth MOT Test
Most vehicles that are three years old are legally required to take a MOT test every year to check their roadworthiness. Each year, around 30% of the cars end up failing the test, as per the UK government statistics. If you don’t want to end up on the list, keep reading to find out how you can maximise the chances of your car passing the first time.
Tyres and Wheels
You can always begin by checking the tyres and wheels of your car and ensuring that you are using the right type and size as confirmed by the manufacturer. It is also important to check if your tyres are overinflated or underinflat, as they can also be a reason for failure. Additionally, verify that all your tyres have a tread depth of at least 1.6 MM around and across the central three-quarters of the pattern. This can be done by inserting a 20-p coin into one of your tread grooves and checking if the outer edge of the coin is completely obscure.
Lights
All the lights in your car, including the headlight, the parking lights, the reversing lights, the indicator and the registration plate numbers should be in proper working condition and in the correct colour order to pass the MOT Bradford. To check the brake lights of your car, have a family member or a friend stand over your car while you are applying the brakes to see if they are illuminating properly.
Wipers and Windscreen
The wipers, windscreen, and washers of your car should be working well enough to allow you a clear view of the road. If your wiper has any smears or cracks/chips, replace them before the MOT and check if your headlight washers also need to be replaced. If there are any cracks on your windscreen, ensure that they are not larger than 40 MM, as it can lead to an MOT failure.
Registration Plates
The next important thing to ensure on the list of pre-MOT checks is a visible registration plate on your vehicle. If your registration plates are not visible from 20 m of distance due to any damage or improper lighting, it can cause an MOT failure. Another important thing to check for your registration plates is that they are tightly fasten to the car.
Dashboard Warning Lights
The next thing to be check is the interior warning lights, or the dashboard warning lights and see if they illuminate properly or are inoperative. In case they keep blinking, it is necessary to get the replacements done before you head out for the MOT and also check if the power steering indicator and the brake fluid warning lamps are turning on and going off when you turn the ignition.
Seatbelts
Seatbelts may be the last thing one could suspect in case of a failed MOT test, but they are a huge factor and approximately 7.2% of the MOT failures account for seatbelt damage. You should always ensure that you are not using fraye or damaged seatbelts, and run a quick test by snapping them into the lock and checking if they are properly secure.
Exhaust
Damaged exhaust systems are a big no when it comes to passing an MOT. If there is visible smoke coming from the tailpipe of your car, it can be an indication of a poor exhaust system and can lead to an MOT field. So if there are any excessive noises, including squeaks or grinding sounds coming from your exhaust while you’re driving the car, repair them. To ensure that your exhaust system is working properly, start the engine and hold a clean cloth over the tailpipe to check if your system is leaking.
Steering Wheel
The steering wheel of your car should also be in proper condition and firm enough to pass the MOT. So before you head for your MOT test, ensure that the steering wheel is working properly and that there isn’t any excessive free play in the steering system.
Wrapping Up
So, to avoid any MOT failures, ensure that you are following the above guide carefully and performing all the quick checks discussed to pass the MOT easily. Furthermore, you should also ensure that you are following up with a regular car servicing routine to maximise the chances of getting a valid MOT certificate.