Whether itโs the morning school run or the big weekly shop, most families rely on their car more than they realise, until something goes wrong. And when it comes to staying road-legal, thereโs one date that always seems to sneak up on us: the MOT test.
If you’re keen to avoid the hassle of a fail, schedule your MOT test on the Dexel Tyre & Auto Care website and keep these tips in mind to boost your chances of passing first time.
Know When Your MOT Is Due
It sounds obvious, but itโs surprisingly common for drivers to forget their MOT due date. Your vehicle requires a valid MOT test every year once itโs over three years old, and driving without one can lead to a ยฃ1,000 fine and invalidated insurance. Set a reminder on your phone or stick a note on the fridge, just like you would for parentsโ evening or a dental check-up.
If you’re not sure of the date, you can check online using your carโs registration number on GOV.UK website. Better still, consider booking a couple of weeks early to give yourself time to fix any issues if something crops up.
Set a reminder on your phone, or put it on the fridge, just like a dental appointment or school parentsโ evening. Book your MOT a few weeks early to leave time for any repairs.
Give Your Car a Quick DIY Check
You donโt have to be a mechanic to spot simple faults that can cause MOT failures. A quick once-over at home can make all the difference between a pass and a fail.
Run through this checklist:
- Lights โ Ask someone to help check all the lights are working: headlights, brake lights, indicators and number plate bulbs.
- Tyres โ Look for visible wear or damage, and check the tread depth (you can use the 20p coin trick, Google it, itโs easy!).
- Windscreen wipers and washers โ These must be in good condition and working properly. Top up your screen wash before the test.
- Number plate โ It should be clean and firmly attached. If the plate is cracked or obscured, you could fail.
- Horn and mirrors โ Simple but often overlooked. Give your horn a beep and make sure all mirrors are secure and crack-free.
These little checks donโt take long but can really save you a second trip back to the garage.
According to the DVSA, over 30% of vehicles fail their MOT on the first attempt.
The most common reasons? Lights, tyres, and brakes.
Tidy Up the Inside
Believe it or not, MOT testers can refuse to test your vehicle if itโs overly cluttered or messy inside. While theyโre not judging your parenting skills, that sea of snack wrappers, toys and school bags can genuinely get in the way. A quick tidy-up before your appointment shows you care, and avoids any unnecessary hold-ups.
Also, make sure the boot is clear if your spare wheel is stored there, and remove any child seats if asked to, some garages need clear access to seatbelt fittings.
Donโt Ignore Warning Lights
That little amber light youโve been ignoring for the past month? It matters. If your dashboard shows a warning light, especially related to emissions, airbags or brakes, your car could fail immediately. Itโs worth getting any warning lights checked and fixed before your test.
Combine It with Your Annual Service
One smart move? Schedule your MOT around the same time as your carโs annual service. This way, any issues can be spotted and sorted before your test, saving you both time and stress. Some garages offer package deals too, which is always handy when youโre juggling family expenses.
MOT FAQs: What Every Driver Should Know
Q: What happens if my car fails the MOT?
A: You’ll receive a ‘refusal of MOT test certificate’ (VT30) and need to fix the listed issues. You can’t drive the car unless you’re heading to a repair or re-test appointment.
Q: Can I drive if my MOT has expired?
A: Only to a pre-booked MOT appointment. Otherwise, itโs illegal and could void your insurance.
Q: How early can I book an MOT?
A: Up to one month (minus a day) before your current MOT expires, your renewal date will stay the same.
