Unusual Reasons You Might Fail Your MOT
Most drivers know the common reasons for failing an MOT, like worn brakes, bald tyres, or cracked windscreens. But there are also some unexpected and unusual causes that can catch you off guard and result in a fail. In this guide, we explore some of these unusual causes and give some tips to help you avoid any nasty surprises and keep your car roadworthy.
Air fresheners and accessories
It might seem harmless, but some air fresheners and interior accessories can actually lead to an MOT fail. Dangling items from the rearview mirror, for example, can obstruct the driver’s view, which is a safety issue. Similarly, loose objects attached to the dashboard, windows, or seats can become projectiles in a sudden stop, which inspectors take seriously. Even modifications like decorative seat covers or non-standard attachments that interfere with controls might be flagged.
To avoid a failure, you should keep the inside of your car tidy and ensure any accessories don’t block your view or stop you from operating the vehicle safely.
Licence plate issues
Your licence plate might seem like a minor detail, but it can cause an MOT failure if it doesn’t meet the legal requirements. Common problems include plates that are hard to read, either because they’re damaged, faded, or just dirty. The font, spacing, or colour might also be incorrect, especially if you have a non-standard or customised plate fitted. Plates that are loose or not securely fixed are another reason for failure, as they could fall off while driving.
To avoid issues, you should ensure your plates are clean, clearly visible, properly fixed, and conform to legal specifications.
Windscreen fluid problems
A seemingly small issue like low windscreen washer fluid can cause an MOT fail if it affects visibility. Inspectors check that the driver can clear the windscreen properly, so if your reservoir is empty or faulty, or if the jets are blocked, or you have the wrong type of fluid, you could face a fail. In colder months, it’s important to use a non-freezing fluid to prevent the system from freezing and failing to operate.
To avoid failure, keep the reservoir topped up, ensure the jets are working correctly, and use the correct type of fluid for the season.
Horn malfunctions
A working horn is essential for safety, and even minor issues can lead to an MOT failure. Horns that don’t sound at all, are too quiet, or produce inconsistent tones could be flagged during the inspection. In some cases, modified horns that are excessively loud or produce unusual sounds can also fail.
To avoid problems, you should regularly test your horn (in safe environments) and ensure it is loud, clear, and fully functional.
Mess and dirt
it might seem trivial, but excessive mess or dirt inside your vehicle can lead to an MOT fail. Inspectors need to ensure that the driver has a clear view of all mirrors and windows, and that pedals and controls aren’t obstructed. Loose items on the seats or floor can be considered a safety hazard, as they might shift while driving and interfere with operation.
To prevent issues, you should keep the inside of your car clean and free from clutter, and ensure all controls, mirrors, and windows are fully visible and unobstructed.
Odd electrical issues
Electrical problems can sometimes be surprising causes of an MOT failure. Warning lights that don’t illuminate, faulty indicators, brake lights that fail intermittently, or issues with dashboard controls will all be checked during the inspection. Even minor wiring faults or blown fuses affecting essential systems can lead to a fail, as they might compromise safety.
To avoid failure, you should regularly check that all lights and electrical components are working correctly and replace any faulty bulbs or fuses promptly.
Exhaust and emission problems
Your exhaust system is closely inspected during an MOT, and unusual issues can lead to failure. Strange noises, rattles, or visible damage might indicate leaks or corrosion that can affect performance. Excessive smoke, unusual colours, or a strong smell can also signal that there are problems with emissions, which will also be checked against legal limits. Even minor cracks or loose parts in the exhaust can result in a fail.
To prevent issues, you’ll need to regularly inspect the exhaust for damage, ensure emissions are within legal limits, and address any unusual sounds or smoke promptly.
Modifications
Vehicle modifications might seem like a personal touch, but some can lead to an MOT fail if they compromise safety or don’t meet legal standards. Common issues include lowered suspension that affects handling, non-standard lighting that’s too bright or incorrectly positioned, and alterations to the exhaust, engine, or brakes. Even cosmetic changes, such as tinted windows or aftermarket mirrors, can be flagged if they reduce visibility or go against regulations.
To avoid failure, you’ll need to ensure any modifications comply with the law and do not interfere with the safe operation of the vehicle.
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