Pre-MOT Check

What should I check before a MOT to avoid failure?

Once your car or van reaches three years old, it requires its first MOT test, and thereafter, an annual check-up. Regular maintenance by the expert technicians at Eden will minimise potential issues, but conducting key pre-MOT checks yourself can also help ensure a first-time pass.

Our expert technicians have shared the best ways you can avoid a failure with our pre MOT checks.

Tyre Tread and Condition – Tyres are one of the most common MOT failure points. As part of your pre-MOT check you should take a good look at the tread across the whole width of the tyre. This is much easier on the front if you put the steering on full lock on one side and then the other, but you might have to use your phone torch to check deep in the wheel arches at the back.

If the tread blocks are below 1.6mm tall across the centre ¾ of the surface, the tyre will fail the MOT. To save you getting out a ruler or using a dedicated gauge, 1.6mm is about the thickness of a 2p coin, but we would recommend changing your tyres if they get lower than 3mm, as it makes a distinct difference in wet weather grip.

You should also be on the lookout for bulges or cuts in the sidewalls, uneven wear patterns, and make sure the tyres have been put on the right way by looking for directional arrows.

Brakes and Warning Lights – Brakes are one of the most critical components checked during an MOT, and anyone who has witnessed a valid test will know that the brake assessment is a key part of the process. The technician will drive the car onto rollers to measure the effectiveness and balance of the brakes on each wheel, ensuring they perform safely and evenly. Any issues with braking force or imbalance could result in a test failure.

To avoid surprises on the day, it’s wise to carry out a simple pre-MOT check yourself. Find a quiet and safe stretch of road, then test your brakes by applying them firmly. If the car pulls to one side, takes longer than usual to stop, or makes unusual noises such as grinding or squealing, it may indicate worn components or underlying faults. If you notice any of these warning signs, seek professional help from our experts at Eden as soon as possible.

Additionally, ensure your parking brake (handbrake) is functioning correctly and holds the car securely when engaged. If it feels weak or struggles to keep the vehicle stationary, it could lead to an MOT failure.

Lastly, pay attention to your dashboard. If any brake-related warning lights, such as the brake system or ABS warning light, are illuminated, this is a clear sign of an issue that needs addressing. Don’t ignore these warnings—book an inspection with Eden’s experts immediately to ensure your vehicle is safe and roadworthy.

Wipe out – Windscreen wipers are often neglected, yet they play a crucial role in keeping you safe, especially in poor weather conditions. Over time, the rubber blades wear down gradually, so you may not notice the deterioration until they start streaking, juddering, or even splitting completely. However, a fresh set of wiper blades can significantly improve visibility and driving safety.

A worn, damaged, or ineffective wiper blade can result in an MOT failure, so it’s essential to check them as part of your pre-MOT inspection. If you spot any cracks, splits, or reduced performance, don’t take the risk - visit Eden’s aftersales experts, and we will help you find and fit the right replacement wipers for your vehicle.

Bright ideas – Checking your lights is one of the easiest DIY tasks to ensure your car is MOT-ready. The simplest way to test them is to ask a friend to watch as you operate each light from the driver’s seat, or you can check your reflection when parked in front of a glass window. Be thorough—don’t forget to test your fog lamps, indicators, brake lights, and rear number plate bulbs.

While replacing a faulty bulb is usually a quick fix, broken lenses will result in an MOT failure. The tester will also take issue with sun-damaged, cloudy headlamps, aftermarket ‘Xenon’ conversions, and stick-on beam deflectors used for driving abroad—so be sure to remove these before your test. A few simple checks now could save you hassle and ensure your vehicle passes first time.

Belt up - Lastly, do not forget seat belts are also a vital safety feature, and the MOT tester will thoroughly inspect their condition and functionality. As part of your pre-MOT check, examine each seat belt carefully - look for fraying, cuts, or other damage to the fabric, and ensure the buckle clips in securely and releases smoothly. This applies to every seat in the vehicle, so check that belts aren’t trapped behind or beneath a folded rear bench.

The tester will also check that the seatbelt and airbag warning lights function correctly. If these lights remain illuminated, it could indicate a fault in the safety system, which may lead to an MOT failure. Any issues should be investigated and resolved as soon as possible to ensure your vehicle’s safety features work properly in the event of an accident.