How to Prepare Your Car for an MOT

Pre-MOT Checklist

These simple checks can help you avoid common MOT failures:

Lights

Walk around the car and check every light — headlamps (dip and main beam), brake lights, indicators, rear fog light, reversing lights, and number plate lights. Replace any blown bulbs before the test.

Tyres

Check the tread depth with a 20p coin — if the outer rim of the coin is visible, the tyre is below the legal limit. Also look for cuts, bulges, and uneven wear. Don't forget the spare if fitted.

Windscreen

Check for chips and cracks. A chip smaller than 10mm in the driver's direct view (Zone A — a 290mm-wide strip centred on the steering wheel) is a fail. Chips up to 40mm are allowed elsewhere in the swept area.

Wipers and Washers

Test the wipers — they should clear the screen without smearing or juddering. Top up the washer fluid and check the jets spray properly.

Brakes

Find a quiet road and test the brakes firmly. The car should stop in a straight line without pulling to one side. Check the handbrake holds on a hill.

Horn

Give it a quick test — it should produce a continuous, uniform note.

Mirrors

Check that the rearview and both door mirrors are secure and the glass isn't cracked or missing.

Seat Belts

Pull each belt out fully and check for fraying, cuts, or damage. The buckle should click in firmly and release when pressed.

Dashboard Warning Lights

Turn the ignition on (don't start the engine) and check the warning lights illuminate. The airbag light, ABS light, and engine management light should come on briefly then go off. If any stay on, they'll cause a fail.

Exhaust

Listen for blowing or rattling from the exhaust. Visible smoke from the exhaust on a warm engine is also a concern. A service before the MOT can help reduce emissions.

Registration Plates

Both plates must be clean, undamaged, and correctly displayed. Non-standard fonts or spacing will fail.

Top Tip

Book your MOT in the month before it expires. That way, if the car fails, you have time to get repairs done and a retest before the certificate runs out.