Earlier this year, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) published research revealing the most common reasons for an MOT failure.
In 2015, over 38% of vehicles failed their MOT at the first attempt, and a startling number of the failures could have been avoided with simple maintenance. Here are the three most common failure points detailed in the report, and, as one of Nottingham leading MOT centres, Lindley’s has some advice for avoiding them yourself.
Lightbulbs
According to the report, 30% of all MOT failures in 2015 were due to lighting and signalling. This is an easily avoidable problem as a replacement bulb can be easily sourced through one of Lindley’s Autocentres’ branches in Nottingham, Arnold or Old Basford. If you have a blown bulb, contact of our centres and we’ll provide you with a replacement or replace it for you, saving you money, and a headache, on a retest.
Tyres
10% of MOT failures in 2015 were due to tyre condition and pressure faults. This is another easily avoidable fault. It’s good practice to check your tyre pressure at least once a month, but to avoid an MOT retest, you should definitely check that your tyre pressure meets manufacturer recommendations.
Similarly, any damage to your tyres can be easily rectified prior to your MOT. A visual inspection of the tyre condition will show up any lumps, bumps or cracks in the tyre. The tread depth should also be checked to ensure it is at least 1.6mm deep. If your tyres do not meet this standard, get booked in to Lindley’s Autocentres in either Nottingham, Arnold or Old Basford to get your tyres replaced – before you book your MOT with us.
Mirrors, wipers and washers
With 8.5% of failures coming from ‘Driver’s view of the road’ it’s important that these items are checked before you take your car in for its MOT. If there is any damage to the wipers or mirrors, it is important that you source replacements before your MOT.
If you have any further questions or need anymore advice on how to pass your MOT, feel free to get in touch with Lindley’s Autocentres at either of our Nottingham, Arnold or Old Basford branches.
