What Is an MOT and Why Do Cars Fail?
What Is an MOT and Why Do Cars Fail?
An MOT test is a legal annual check required for most cars in the UK once they’re three years old. Set by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), it’s designed to make sure vehicles meet minimum road safety and environmental standards, helping keep everyone safer on the road.
Cars fail their MOT for all sorts of reasons, but many MOT fails come down to simple issues that drivers may not notice during day-to-day use. The DVSA categorises faults as minor, major, or dangerous, depending on how serious they are. While major and dangerous issues lead to a failure, many problems are easy to spot and fix before test day if you know what to look for.
The Most Common MOT Failures in the UK
DVSA data shows that around one in three cars fails its MOT the first time. The good news is that many of the most common MOT failures in the UK are simple, low-cost issues that drivers can avoid with a few basic checks.
Lighting & Signalling Problems
Blown bulbs, faulty indicators, and misaligned headlights are among the most common MOT fails. All exterior lights, brake lights, and number plate lights must work properly and be clearly visible.
Suspension Issues
Worn shock absorbers, broken springs, or loose suspension components can all lead to an MOT failure. These parts help keep your car stable and comfortable, and testers check them carefully.
Brake Faults
Brakes are a key safety item, so problems here often result in a failure. Common issues include worn brake pads or discs, an ineffective handbrake, or uneven braking performance.
Tyre Problems
Tyres must have at least 1.6mm of tread across the central part and be free from damage. Cuts, bulges, or incorrectly matched tyres are frequent car MOT failure reasons.
Driver’s View of the Road
Anything that affects what you can see while driving can cause a fail. This includes cracked windscreens in the driver’s line of sight, worn wipers, empty washer bottles, or warning lights staying on.
Exhaust & Emissions Failures
Excessive exhaust emissions, visible smoke, or engine warning lights can all lead to an MOT failure. These checks help reduce pollution and ensure engines are running as cleanly as possible.
Steering & Structural Problems
Issues with steering components or corrosion to important structural areas are taken seriously, as they directly affect vehicle control and safety.
Number Plate & Minor Defects
Damaged, dirty, or incorrectly spaced number plates are surprisingly common. While easy to fix, they still count as a fail if they don’t meet legal standards.
What Happens if Your Car Fails an MOT?
If your car fails, you’ll receive a red MOT certificate listing the problems found. What you can do next depends on the type of fault.
- Major faults mean the car has failed and needs repairs before it can pass
- Dangerous faults mean the vehicle should not be driven until fixed
In some cases, you may still be able to drive your car to a pre-booked repair or MOT retest, as long as it’s not classed as dangerous and you’re driving safely.
How to Reduce the Risk of MOT Failure
A few simple checks can go a long way towards avoiding an MOT fail. Before your test, it’s worth checking:
- All lights are working properly
- Tyres have enough tread and no visible damage
- Wipers work well and washer fluid is topped up
- Engine oil and other fluid levels are correct
- Number plates are clean and easy to read
Doing this about a week before your MOT gives you time to fix any small issues and helps take the stress out of test day.
Regular checks and timely car servicing can make a real difference. MotorEasy helps you stay organised with MOT and service reminders, plus access to trusted garages across the UK, so you can deal with small issues before they become bigger problems.
Why So Many Cars Fail Their MOT
With around one-third of vehicles failing first time, MOT failures are more common than many drivers expect. Older cars, higher mileage, and missed maintenance all increase the risk.
Small problems often build up over time. Regular checks and timely repairs can make a big difference, not just at MOT time but for your car’s overall reliability too.
How MotorEasy Helps You Avoid MOT Fails
MotorEasy is here to make car ownership easier. With the MotorEasy Digital Garage, you can keep track of your MOT history, get reminders when your test is due, and stay on top of your servicing and road tax.
MotorEasy also gives you access to a trusted network of garages, helping you save money on repairs and car servicing. For extra peace of mind, you can also explore options like warranties, breakdown cover, tyre insurance, and MOT services across the UK, all designed to help you avoid surprises and stay confidently on the road.
MotorEasy makes managing MOT tests and car servicing simple. With the Digital Garage, you can track your MOT history, book an MOT or service online, and choose from a network of trusted UK garages, all in one place.
Common MOT Failure FAQs
What can a car fail MOT on?
A car can fail its MOT for safety, emissions, or visibility issues, including brakes, tyres, lights, steering, suspension, and exhaust problems.
Can you drive a car that has failed its MOT?
Sometimes, but only in limited situations. You cannot drive a car with dangerous faults and should only drive to repairs or a pre-booked appointment.
How much does it cost to fix a failed MOT?
Costs vary depending on the issue. Many common MOT failures are relatively inexpensive to fix if caught early.
How long do I have to fix MOT failures?
There is no set deadline, but you will need a valid MOT before the car can be legally driven or taxed.
Can I appeal an MOT failure?
Yes. If you believe the result is incorrect, you can appeal through the DVSA before any repairs are carried out.
What happens if my car fails its MOT?
If your car fails its MOT, the next steps depend on the type of fault and whether your current MOT is still valid. Some failures allow limited driving, while others mean the car should not be used at all. Understanding what you can do, what you cannot do, and how quickly you need to act can save you time, money, and stress. Find out more here.
If your MOT is coming up, MotorEasy can help you stay prepared. From reminders to online booking and servicing support, everything you need is in one place.
