Before Your MOT

MOT Preparation Checklist

Around 40% of vehicles fail their MOT — and many failures are preventable with a simple pre-test check. Work through this checklist before your test to maximise your chances of a first-time pass.

Lights

  • All headlights working (main beam and dip)
  • Sidelights and rear lights
  • Both indicator fronts and rears
  • Brake lights (get a friend to check)
  • Reverse light
  • Front and rear fog lights
  • Number plate light

Tyres

  • Tread depth above 1.6mm on all 4 tyres (use a 20p coin — if outer band visible, too low)
  • No cuts or bulges in sidewalls
  • Correct tyre pressures set
  • No obvious damage to wheels or rims

Windscreen & Wipers

  • No chips or cracks in driver's primary vision zone (A zone)
  • Wipers clear the screen effectively without smearing
  • Washer fluid reservoir topped up
  • No stickers blocking the driver's view

Brakes

  • No grinding or squealing when braking
  • Car doesn't pull to one side under braking
  • Pedal feels firm (not spongy)
  • Handbrake holds on a slope

Steering & Suspension

  • No excessive play in the steering wheel
  • No clunking over bumps
  • Car tracks straight on a flat road
  • No noticeable lean to one side

Engine & Emissions

  • No warning lights illuminated (engine, ABS, traction control, etc.)
  • Exhaust doesn't produce excessive smoke
  • Correct engine oil level

Bodywork

  • No sharp edges that could injure
  • Number plates present, correct font, not damaged or faded
  • VIN plate visible and legible
  • Fuel filler cap fits correctly

General

  • Horn works
  • Seatbelts in all seats work and lock correctly
  • Interior mirrors present and intact
  • Both wing mirrors present and adjustable

Not sure if your car will pass? Book a pre-MOT inspection.

Book MOT Test Pre-MOT Inspection