LeaseVan.co.uk has looked at the quick checks people can carry out at home to give their vehicle the best chance of getting through its MOT.
Among the advice is checking lights, mirrors and the windscreen to make sure they’re in good condition and in working order. Other important checks include the tread on your tyres, oil and brake fluid and checking seats and seat belts for any damage.
It’s also suggested that you give your vehicle a quick clean – a tester can refuse to carry out the MOT if it’s too dirty or cluttered.
A spokesperson for LeaseVan.co.uk said: “Your vehicle can fail on a number of different issues but there are some checks you can make pre-MOT to make sure it’ll pass on all the little things.
“It’s worth doing your own mini-inspection a couple of weeks before your MOT – this then gives you time to sort out any problems to give your vehicle the best chance of passing.”
Here are LeaseVan.co.uk’s tips on the things to check before your MOT:
Mirrors
Make sure all your mirrors are in place and check they’re not cracked, impairing your view or exposing a damaged edge.
Warning lights
If a warning light is showing on your dashboard before the MOT, get the problem sorted. If the tester turns on the ignition and a light shows, you will fail your MOT.
Tyre tread
Having the right tyre tread is essential for safety. You could face a fine and penalty points if tyres are below the required depth.
Lights
Check all your lights are working to pass your MOT. If they’re not, replace the bulbs ahead of the test. Remember to check headlights, sidelights, rear lights, hazard lights, fog lights, indicators and brake lights.
Seats and seat belts
Check the driver’s seat can be adjusted and they’re all securely fitted. Check seat belts for damage and pull them to make sure they react properly.
The horn
The easiest check you can do – if your horn doesn’t work, get it fixed.
Fluids
Make sure you check your oil, brake fluid and power steering fluid ahead of your MOT. Also make sure you have plenty of screen wash.
Windscreen
Check your windscreen for cracks. As long as a mark is not over 10mm and not obstructing the drivers view, or on the driver’s side, you should be fine. Elsewhere on the windscreen, the mark should be no larger than 40mm.
Wipers
Wipers must be able to clear the windscreen of rain and should be free of damage or tears. It will work out cheaper to replace them ahead of your MOT.
Give it a clean
A clean vehicle will make no difference to whether you pass your MOT, but if it’s full of clutter then the tester can refuse to carry out the inspection. Do make sure number plates are clean and easy to read and lights are not dirty.
