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MOT test explained

Cars over three years old must by law pass a yearly MOT test to show that they are roadworthy. Find out more about the MOT, including the five most common simple reasons why cars fail it. 

01

Screen wash not topped up. This basic task takes minutes, so don’t be caught out by it.

02

The car was dirty or full of clutter. Clear the mess from the boot and cabin and give the windows and mirrors a quick wipe.

03

A registration plate problem. For example, the plate showed the incorrect type face/spacing, or was dirty or missing altogether. If you have a personalised plate, make sure it's legal.

04

Stickers on the windscreen blocking the driver’s view. Make sure that anything stuck to the windscreen, including tax disc and parking permits, is outside the wipers’ sweep area.

05

Lit-up warning light on the dashboard. The MOT has included lit-up warning lights since 2012. So make sure you know what lit-up up car warning lights mean and if you have any book an appointment with us first so we can sort out the underlying problem before the MOT.

© 2015 E & OE

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