1. Worn Brakes

Brake components naturally wear over time, especially if you do a lot of stop-start driving.

What to look out for:

• Squeaking or grinding noises
• Reduced braking performance
• Vibrations when braking

If brake pads or discs fall below legal safety limits, your vehicle will fail its MOT. Regular checks and timely replacement can prevent this and keep your car safe on the road.

2. Tyres

Tyres are one of the most common and most avoidable reasons for failure.

What to look out for:

• Tread depth below 1.6mm (the legal minimum)
• Uneven wear across the tyre
• Cracks, bulges, or damage

Tyres affect everything from braking to handling, so keeping them in good condition is essential. A quick visual check every few weeks can make all the difference.

3. Lights

Lighting issues are one of the simplest problems, but they still cause a high number of MOT failures.

What to look out for:

• Bulbs not working
• Dim or flickering lights
• Headlights misaligned

Most of these issues are quick and inexpensive to fix, but they’re often overlooked. Checking your lights regularly, especially before your MOT, can save time and hassle.

4. Suspension Issues

Your suspension system plays a key role in comfort, handling, and overall safety.

What to look out for:

• Knocking or clunking noises
• Uneven ride height
• Poor handling or excessive bouncing

Worn suspension components can affect how your vehicle drives and responds, which is why they’re closely inspected during an MOT.

5. Emissions

Emissions failures are becoming more common as regulations tighten.

What to look out for:

• Warning lights on the dashboard
• Reduced engine performance
• Excess smoke from the exhaust

These issues are often linked to engine components, sensors, or the exhaust system. Regular servicing is the best way to keep emissions within acceptable limits.

How to Avoid Failing Your MOT

A few simple checks can make a big difference:

• Check all lights are working
• Inspect tyre tread depth (minimum 1.6mm)
• Listen for unusual noises
• Keep up with regular servicing
• Ensure warning lights are not showing

Better still, book a pre-MOT check with our team to catch any issues early.

Why Preparation Matters

Failing an MOT can lead to:

• Additional repair costs
• Time off the road
• Inconvenience and delays

A little preparation goes a long way in avoiding this.

At Startin Group, we aim to make the process smooth, clear, and efficient from start to finish.