Did you know that almost half of all MOT failures are for simple things that could have been checked
and
fixed before the test?
Spending some time checking over your vehicle before its MOT could mean the difference between a pass
and a
fail - so it's definitely worth doing! Our engineering experts have listed 12 checks that anyone can
do to
identify common faults that cause MOT failures.
If you’re happy to fix the problem yourself, you’ll find a huge range of essential car spares,
supplies and
replacement parts at Halfords. Can’t find the part you need? Call us or drop in to your nearest
Halfords and
we’ll be able to order it for you.
If you don’t have the tools or the time to fix your car, we can do it for you. We carry the UK’s
largest
range of spare parts and can replace parts from bulbs to wiper blades while you wait.
12 essential pre-MOT checks
To help you find common faults, our expert engineers have listed 12 essential pre-MOT checks that anyone
should be able to perform. Work your way through each of the steps to identify faults, and then fix them.
Spending a little time today could spare you the expense and inconvenience of an MOT failure.
Test the handbrake and ensure it works correctly. If you have to pull the lever a long way up or
it clicks
too many times the cable may need adjustment, so get this checked out before your MOT.
Check the seat belts for fraying, cuts, or other signs of damage. The front seats must be
securely
attached,
and the backrests must lock in the upright position.
Check the steering wheel does not feel too loose. If it does this could indicate a wear in the
linkage
that
could cause an MOT failure.
Lift the bonnet and check the brake fluid level. Press the brake pedal and make sure that it
doesn't feel
spongy. If it does, there may be air in the hydraulic system which will need to be removed by
bleeding.
Your
brakes are a crucial part of keeping you safe, so if you’re worried, don’t work on them
yourself,
instead
book a free
brake
check.
Check that your wing mirror and rear-view mirror are in good condition, and that you can
adjust them if
you
need to. If they're broken or cracked, be sure to replace the mirror glass or the entire
mirror.
There shouldn't be any cracks or chips in the windscreen within the driver's field of view.
If you spot a
crack, chip or split, get it fixed ASAP.
Check the windscreen washers and wiper blades work. Replace worn wiper blades and top up your
screen wash
if
it's a bit low.
Check your horn works by giving it a beep.
Double check that your number plates are in good condition as a cracked one can mean a failure.
You’ll need two people for this one. Sit in the car’s cab and turn on your lights. Have someone
walk
around
your vehicle and check everything, including headlights, brake lights, fog lights and
indicators, is
working
OK. Your number plates and all lights must be clean and undamaged, so give them a good scrub if
necessary.
If any of your lights aren't working, replace the bulbs or check the wiring to make sure there
aren't
any
loose connections. At Halfords, we stock a huge selection of bulbs for all makes and models and
can even
fit
replacements while you wait.
Use a tread depth gauge to check how much tread there is on each tyre. The legal minimum is 1.6mm
-
although
it's better to fit new tyres well before they reach this stage! Driving without enough tread
isn’t just
dangerous, it’s illegal – with a penalty 3-points for each tyre that’s under
the limit.
Check the exhaust by starting the engine and holding a clean cloth over the tailpipe. You’ll be
able to
hear
if the system is leaking.
Need some spares, supplies or replacement parts?
Spotted a problem and need some supplies? you’ll be able to find all the spares and replacement parts
you
need to keep your car running smoothly at Halfords. You can shop online or visit your local store
where
you
can find the UK’s largest range of motoring products. We’re also able to perform a range of checks
on
your
vehicle and fit replacement parts while you wait. At Halfords, we’ve got you covered for the journey
ahead.
Don’t miss out on this MOT essential! Join the Halfords Motoring Club today to access a range of amazing
benefits and discounts that are designed to keep you moving, keep you safe and keep you saving.
It’s free to join and you’ll receive money off your MOT, a free car health check and a welcome voucher that
can be spent on any Halfords product or service.
Or choose our Premium membership for a small monthly fee (or a one-off payment) to unlock exclusive member
pricing on all motoring products and services online and across our stores, garages and Halfords Mobile
Experts, as well as a variety of other benefits that will help you to keep moving for less.
With so much to enjoy, this is too good an opportunity to miss!
