Lots of MOT failures come down to simple things you can spot yourself in ten minutes. Run through this checklist before your MOT in Blackpool and give your vehicle the best chance of a first-time pass.
Outside the vehicle
- Lights. Check headlights (dipped and main beam), sidelights, indicators, hazards, brake lights, fog lights, reversing lights and the number plate light. Lighting faults are one of the most common reasons vehicles fail.
- Tyres. The legal minimum tread depth for cars is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tread. Look for cuts, bulges and cracking on the sidewalls too.
- Wipers and washers. Blades should not smear or be split, and the washer bottle needs to be topped up. An empty washer bottle can be a fail.
- Windscreen. Chips or cracks in the driver’s line of sight can fail. Small chips can often be repaired cheaply beforehand.
- Number plates. Clean, legible, securely fitted and in the correct font and spacing.
- Mirrors. Present, secure and not cracked.
Inside the vehicle
- Warning lights. Dashboard warnings such as the engine management, ABS, airbag or brake light can mean an automatic fail.
- Seatbelts. Pull each one out fully and check it retracts and latches properly, with no fraying.
- Horn. Give it a quick press.
- Seats. The driver’s seat must adjust and lock in place.
Under the bonnet
- Fluids. Top up engine oil and brake fluid. Testers need to run the engine for the emissions test, and low oil can stop the test.
- Clear the clutter. Empty the boot and cabin so the tester can reach seatbelts and check the structure. A cluttered vehicle can be refused.
Good to know: at Greenwood, small faults and adjustments are rectified free of charge during your test. And because we do not do repairs, we will never fail you to sell you work.
When is my MOT due?
You can check for free on GOV.UK and book with us up to a month (minus a day) early without losing your renewal date. See our MOT FAQs for more, or book your MOT.
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