Our Essential Pre-mot Checklist: Visual Checks to Help You Pass MOT

A car can fail an MOT test for several reasons, a broad range of tests are performed across all aspects of an automobile, and it only has to fail in one of these components to fail its MOT test. 

It's a wise option to make a checklist a few days prior to your MOT due date to ensure your car is in its best condition by the time it's checked. Many reasons for MOT  failure are the components that can be easily inspected at home. So, by checking these parts beforehand, you can resolve any problems and maximise your possibility of passing the MOT Shipley. 

A Pre-mot Checklist Must Cover the Below-mentioned Components:- 

(1) Tyres: Your car tyres must be properly inflated as per your vehicle manufacturer's recommendation. They must have a tread depth of at least 1.6 mm around the whole tyre. 

One of the prominent ways to check the tread depth yourself is the 20p test. Any irregular or unusual wear can highlight an issue, so it's better to get the tyres of your vehicle checked by professionals. Tyre problems are a huge cause of MOT failures, so it's especially vital to inspect them in advance. 

(2) Lights: All the lights in your automobile must be in good working order. It includes your sidelights, headlights, brake lights, indicators and fog lights as well as your number plate light. You may require a friend or family member to assist you to check your lights. Ask them to stand at the back of your car as you operate the lights. Else, you can make use of a wall and inspect the lights through reflections. Unsecured light mounts can also lead to MOT failure. 

(3) Windscreen and Wipers: Any crack or chip in your car's windscreen larger than 40 mm will lead to a failed MOT. On the driver's side, the limit is even smaller; any damage larger than 10 mm in the driver's area is not allowed and will lead to MOT failure. 

Besides the windscreen, it's equally essential to check the condition of your wipers. Your washers and wipers must be in a suitable condition to provide you with a clear view of the path. If the wipers are damaged or your washer feed is blocked, you must pay attention to it before your MOT to pass the test.

(4) Fuel and Engine Oil: Your vehicle needs to have adequate oil and fuel levels to perform the emissions test. To inspect your oil levels, remove the dipstick from the engine and wipe it clean. Put the dipstick back into the engine and pull it out to measure the number of oil levels. The oil level must be in between the minimum and maximum marks. 

(5) Exhaust:  Keep a check on any rattling or excessive noise when your vehicle is moving. It may suspect an issue with your car's exhaust system, which could lead to MOT Test Shipley failure. Another way of checking the exhaust is by seeing if there's any smoke coming out of your car's exhaust. It's normal at the beginning, but excessive smoke may indicate a severe problem. 

In the same way, if you can observe fuel or oil leaking from the exhaust system, there may be an issue with the glow plugs or spark plugs not burning fuel effectively. 

(6) Mirrors: Your vehicle's mirrors must be secure, intact and free of cracks. You are likely to fail the MOT test if you have cracked or smashed mirrors. So, ensure to replace the damaged mirrors - if any, before going for the test. 

You often get replacement mirrors for the make and model of your car online. If you're unsure about changing the mirror, take assistance from a professional technician. 

(7) Brakes: It's vital to ensure the braking system of your vehicle is in optimal condition. If the vehicle drifts to one side when you apply the brakes, it indicates an issue that requires further attention. If you have alloy wheels, you can perform a visual inspection of the car's braking system without having to remove it. Inspect the car for excessive wear of the brake pedals or brake discs as it indicates your brakes require replacement. 

(8) Interior Checks: It's essential to ensure that all of your seats and seat belts are in good condition. You must also test the horn before going for the test. Finally, do not forget to check the warning lights of the dashboard. If you find any error, fix it at the earliest.