Drivers urged to check plates as little-known rules could fail MOT during 'busiest month'

MOT tests - can be a driver's nightmare - especially if the costs rack up due to test failures. Recent figuresshow that £14.9 million may have been lost in 2023/24 due to avoidable failures. 2.59 million vehicles falling short on easily fixed problems.

There were 7.5 million failed tests last year and the most common faults were faulty lights, worn tyres and damaged wipers. These simple checks can help drivers save them from costly retests during September, which is the busiest month for MOTs.

Neil Hutchinson from Mercury Car Centre, an Essex car servicing company, shares the little-known reasons that your car could still fail its MOT and how to avoid this and not pay those hefty prices.

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Why September is so busy?

"September is traditionally one of the busiest months for MOT tests because many cars are due for their first MOT three years after being sold in September.

“This surge adds to the usual volume of vehicles needing tests, so this increased workload can lead to longer waiting times, overstretched staff, and potential frustration for drivers.”

Car plates

"Registration plates need to be clean, secure, and easy to read. If they’re cracked, loose, or obscured, your car won’t pass its MOT. For personalised plates, spacing and font must also meet regulations, so double-check these before your test.”

Air fresheners

“While air fresheners are popular, they can block your view if not placed carefully. This not only puts you at risk but can also cause your MOT to fail. Those hanging from the mirror could also interfere with airbag deployment in an accident.

“This is a serious safety risk and something that might cause your car to fail the MOT, so positioning them carefully is important.”

Car interior or exterior that is cluttered/messy

“A cluttered car isn’t just unpleasant, it can be unsafe. Rubbish under the pedals or a dirty exterior that obscures lights or plates can lead to an MOT refusal or fine.”

Damaged windscreen wipers

“Many drivers don’t realise that worn or damaged windscreen wipers can lead to an MOT failure. If your wipers aren’t effectively clearing your windscreen, it’s seen as a safety risk because poor visibility can be dangerous on the road.”

Faulty lights and indicators

“It’s important to make sure all your lights, including headlights, brake lights, indicators, and fog lights, are working and showing the correct colours.”

Broken washers and empty screen wash

“Clear visibility is important while driving, so your washers must spray properly, and your screen wash reservoir should be full. If the washers aren’t angled right or are broken, it can affect your ability to keep the windscreen clean, leading to a failed MOT.”

Worn or damaged tyres
“Tyres are a major safety concern during an MOT. You should regularly check the tread depth using something like a 20p coin and make sure the tyres aren’t flat or damaged. Driving on worn tyres is dangerous and will result in failure.”

Faulty seatbelts

“Seatbelts are one of the most important safety features in your car. Any issue with them, whether they don’t latch, are damaged, or are trapped, can cause an MOT failure. It’s worth giving them a quick check before your test.”

Before going for your MOT test, this busy September, make sure to double check these in your car to avoid spending unnecessary expenses.

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