Getting ready for an MOT can feel stressful. No one wants to deal with a failed test and another round of repairs. But the truth is, most MOT failures come from small issues that could have been fixed at home with a bit of attention.
If you live in Aldershot and your MOT is due soon, spending half an hour checking your car can save time and money. Here are seven critical pre-MOT checks you can do yourself before heading to the test centre.
What Is an MOT Pre-Check?
An MOT pre-check is a simple inspection you do before the actual MOT test. It’s your chance to find and fix small problems early, so your car stands a better chance of passing.
Think of it as a quick health check for your vehicle. You look at basic things that MOT testers focus on, tyres, lights, brakes, mirrors, and visibility. Most of these checks don’t need special tools or skills.
Doing a pre-check helps you avoid surprises on test day. It can also stop small faults from turning into costly repairs later.
1. Check Your Lights
Lights are one of the most common reasons cars fail their MOT. Walk around your car and test every light, headlights, brake lights, indicators, number plate light, and reversing light.
You can do this easily by turning the ignition on and asking someone to stand outside while you use the controls. If you are alone, reverse close to a wall or garage door so you can see the reflections.
Replace any dead bulbs. They’re inexpensive and easy to fit. Make sure the covers are clean and not cracked.
2. Look at Your Tyres
Tyres are another frequent cause of MOT failure. Check that your tyres have at least 1.6mm tread depth. The easiest way is to use a 20p coin, place it in the tread groove. If you can still see the outer rim of the coin, the tread is too low.
Also, check for cracks, bulges, or nails stuck in the rubber. Uneven wear could mean a problem with alignment or suspension.
Check your tyre pressure too. You’ll find the correct pressure in the car’s manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s door. A simple tyre pressure gauge can help you adjust it easily.
If you spot damage or your tyres look worn, it’s best to replace them before the MOT.
3. Inspect the Brakes
Brakes must work smoothly and evenly. While you can’t test them like a mechanic, you can get a feel for how they behave.
When driving, notice if the car pulls to one side when braking, if the pedal feels soft, or if you hear squeaking or grinding sounds. Those are signs that the pads or discs may need attention.
If the brake fluid is low, top it up with the correct type listed in your car’s handbook. Never ignore warning lights on the dashboard related to the brakes.
4. Check the Windscreen, Wipers, and Washers
Your view of the road must be clear. Inspect the windscreen for cracks or chips, especially in the driver’s line of sight. Even small chips can cause a fail if they’re in the wrong place.
Check that your wipers move smoothly and leave no streaks. Replacing them is quick and inexpensive. Also, make sure the washer bottle is filled with screen wash.
It may sound minor, but empty washer fluid is a surprisingly common reason for MOT failure.
5. Test the Horn
Your horn must work properly. Give it a quick press to confirm it sounds clearly. It’s a small detail but still part of the safety check.
If it doesn’t sound or is very faint, it could be a wiring issue or a fuse. Sometimes, replacing the fuse or cleaning the horn contacts can fix the problem without much effort.
6. Make Sure Your Mirrors and Seatbelts Are Safe
Check that all mirrors are secure and give a full view behind and to the sides. Cracked or loose mirrors should be replaced.
Next, test every seatbelt. Pull them out fully to check for fraying or tears, and make sure they lock when you tug sharply. The buckle should click firmly into place.
Inspect the rear seatbelts too. They’re easy to overlook but are still checked during the MOT.
7. Keep the Inside and Outside Clean
A clean car makes a better impression and helps testers do their job without obstruction. Clear out clutter from the boot and back seats.
Wipe down the dashboard so warning lights are visible. Remove anything hanging from the mirror or stuck to the windscreen that could block your view.
Wash the number plates so they’re readable. An unreadable plate can actually cause a fail.
Small Checks To Perform
These little details may not always cause a fail, but they still matter:
- Make sure the fuel cap closes properly.
- Top up engine oil and coolant.
- Check that your exhaust isn’t hanging loose or making strange noises.
- Confirm that all doors open and close easily.
A quick look at these things adds only a few minutes but shows you care about keeping your car safe.
Why Do These Checks Matter?
Most MOT failures in the UK are linked to lights, tyres, brakes, and visibility. These are simple to spot at home. Doing your own pre-MOT check helps prevent small issues from turning into expensive problems.
It also gives you peace of mind knowing your car is safer to drive. A little care before the test can save a lot of time and stress later.
Choose Ashroad Service Centre For Professional MOT Pre Check
If you’re unsure about your vehicle’s condition, get a professional check and book your MOT in Aldershot.
Ashroad Service Centre in Aldershot can help get your car ready for the test. Their technicians handle everything from brakes and tyres to lights and exhausts. You can book a quick inspection or full service before your MOT.
They offer honest advice and practical repairs to help your car pass the test the first time.
A visit there could save you from an unexpected fail and another round of fees.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for an MOT doesn’t have to be complicated. Most of what causes a failure is easy to check at home with a bit of time and care.
Keep your car clean, make sure everything works as it should, and fix small issues before the test.
For anything beyond your comfort zone, the team at Ashroad Service Centre is right here in Aldershot to help. With a few simple checks and a reliable garage nearby, your MOT can be stress-free and straightforward. Get directions to Ash Road MOT & Service Centre for your MOT.
