Every driver is required to complete an MOT each year on their vehicle to ensure that it is safe for use on the roads. It is required by law to have an MOT, so be sure to have it booked in within good time and avoid delays. In this blog, we will be discussing how to prepare your car for an MOT so that it is more likely to pass first time.
Ignoring Warning Lights
Ignoring warning lights is something you shouldn’t do, especially if the light is red! If you notice anything pop up on your dashboard, be sure to check your manual to see what needs to be addressed.
Check Your Fluids & Oil
There are a few fluids to always check before an MOT, and these are easy to top up yourself if needed. These include brake fluid, windscreen washer fluid, engine coolant, and oil.
Washer fluid is one of the easier to check and is essential to do because if you have none left, it will result in an MOT failure.
Check Your Mirrors
Be sure to check that your mirrors are intact and aren’t damaged. To pass an MOT you must have at least one interior and one offside mirror.
Tyre Tread
The legal limit for tyre tread is 1.6mm. If you are any lower than this it can result in an MOT failure. Not only that, if you are caught with tread less than 1.6mm, then you’ll be at risk of points on your licence – so be sure to check your tyre tread!
Do Your Windscreen Wipers Work?
It is essential that your vision is not impaired on the road, so your wipers must correctly clean your windows otherwise, as you may have guessed, it will result in an MOT failure.
If you have any marks, chips or scratches bigger than 10mm on the driver’s side of the window, this can also result in a failure.
Worn Out Brake Pads & Discs
Brakes can be a common part which causes MOT failure, as people may not always realise when their brakes are on the limit, similar to tyres. If your brakes are heavily worn down, they’ll need replacing.
Are You Due An MOT?
There are many other areas which are taken into consideration when having an MOT completed. But the areas above are some common, and easier areas for you to check prior to having your MOT.
If you are due an MOT, get in touch as soon as possible to have your car booked in and to avoid delays.
To see more on MOTs, view the Gov website here on the topic.
Tivoli Auto Services, Hastings
We are an independent garage based in Hastings, St. Leonards. If you have any issues or requirements with your car, or need a new service and MOT, bring your car down to Tivoli and a member of our friendly team will be happy to help.
Contact us today at 01424 442277 to get your car booked in. We are here to give any advice to help you get the most out of your vehicle.
