An MOT test can be stressful, especially when you’re unsure if your car will pass. But many common MOT failures come down to simple issues that you can check and fix yourself. Spending a little time inspecting your car before the test can save you money, reduce the risk of failure, and help you avoid the hassle of rebooking.

If you’re based in Maidstone, these at-home checks are easy to do and don’t require any special tools. Think of them as a quick way to keep your vehicle safe and roadworthy before taking it to the garage for its official MOT test.

1. Check Your Lights and Indicators

Faulty bulbs are one of the most common reasons cars fail their MOT test. Before heading to the testing centre, check every light on your vehicle. That includes headlights, sidelights, brake lights, indicators, fog lights, and number plate lights.

Switch them on one by one and walk around your car to make sure each light works as it should. If any bulb has gone out, it’s usually a simple fix. Most replacements can be done at home in minutes. Keeping spare bulbs in your car is always a good idea, especially if you drive at night or in poor weather.

Make sure your lights are clean, too. Dirt can reduce brightness, and that alone can lead to an advisory or a minor fault during an MOT inspection.

2. Inspect Tyres for Wear and Pressure

Your tyres are another critical safety component that examiners check closely during an MOT. The legal tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm, but it’s better to replace tyres when the tread gets close to 2mm to stay safe.

Use a tread depth gauge or a simple 20p coin to check. Insert the coin into the tread grooves. If you can see the outer band, your tyres may need replacing.

Also check tyre pressure. You’ll find the recommended PSI in your car’s manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s door frame. Inflate them to the right level and make sure there are no visible cracks or bulges on the sidewalls.

Even small issues like uneven wear can affect your braking distance or handling, so it’s worth catching them early.

3. Test Your Brakes

Your brakes must feel firm and responsive. If the pedal feels soft or sinks too low, it could be a sign of air in the system or low brake fluid.

Try braking gently in a safe area and listen for any squeaking or grinding. If the car pulls to one side, the brakes may need attention. You can also check your brake fluid level, it’s usually in a clear reservoir near the engine bay. If it’s low, top it up with the correct fluid type shown in your car manual.

Regular brake checks are essential not only for passing your MOT but for keeping your car safe on Maidstone’s busy roads.

4. Inspect Windscreen and Wipers

Cracks, chips, or worn wipers can cause an MOT failure. Even a small crack in your windscreen, if it’s in the driver’s line of sight, can lead to rejection.

Check your windscreen carefully for any damage. If you spot chips smaller than a £1 coin, you may be able to repair them before the test.

Wipers should clear water smoothly without leaving streaks. If they’re noisy or miss sections of the glass, replace them. Top up your washer fluid with a good screenwash mixture so it sprays effectively.

These small details are often overlooked but make a big difference during an MOT check.

5. Check Seatbelts and Mirrors

Inside your car, make sure all seatbelts are secure and retract properly. Pull each one sharply to see if it locks in place. Any frayed or damaged belt can fail the MOT.

Next, check your mirrors. You should have a clear view from the driver’s side, passenger side, and rear-view mirror. Adjust them so you can see properly from your normal driving position.

If any mirror glass is cracked or loose, it’s worth replacing before the test.

6. Look at Fluid Levels

Low fluid levels can trigger dashboard warnings and may lead to minor MOT issues. Take a few minutes to check:

• Engine oil: Pull out the dipstick, wipe it clean, and check the oil level sits between the markers.
• Coolant: The coolant tank should be filled between the minimum and maximum lines.
• Brake fluid: Ensure it’s at the proper level and hasn’t darkened too much, which can indicate it needs changing.
• Power steering fluid: If your steering feels heavy, check the fluid level.

Keeping these topped up also helps your car run smoothly and prevents long-term damage.

7. Check Number Plates, Horn, and Body Condition

Your number plates must be clean, secure, and easy to read. If dirt or damage makes them hard to see, it could result in a fail.

Test your horn, it should produce a loud, clear sound. Also, look over your car’s body for any sharp edges, rust, or damage that might be considered unsafe.

These might seem like small points, but MOT examiners check them all carefully.

Why Do Pre-MOT Checks Matter?

A few minutes of preparation can make all the difference. Many MOT failures come down to basic maintenance issues that cost very little to fix. By checking your car in advance, you can avoid the stress of unexpected failures and retests.

It’s not just about passing the MOT. These checks also ensure your car remains safe and reliable throughout the year.

When Do You Need Professional MOT Help in Maidstone?

Even after checking everything, some faults can still go unnoticed. That’s where professional garages like Malling Repair Services in Maidstone make the process easier.

Their trained technicians carry out full MOT inspections using modern diagnostic tools and repair any issues quickly and accurately. If your car needs pre-MOT work, brake replacement, or tyre fitting, their team can handle it all in one visit, helping to streamline your next mot in Maidstone.

They also advise you on potential future issues, so you can plan maintenance ahead of time and avoid unexpected failures.

If your car needs pre-MOT work, brake replacement, or tyre fitting, their team can handle it all in one visit. They also advise you if something might cause a failure in future, so you can plan maintenance ahead of time.

Their reputation for honest pricing and professional standards has made them a trusted choice for many drivers across Maidstone.

Extra Tips to Avoid MOT Failure

To make your car even more MOT-ready, here are a few additional steps that many drivers in Maidstone find helpful:

• Keep your car clean inside and out. Examiners need clear access to parts of the vehicle.
• Check that your exhaust isn’t noisy or blowing fumes.
• Make sure your battery is secure and the terminals aren’t corroded.
• Ensure your fuel cap fits tightly and seals properly.
• Check the registration plate light at night; it’s often missed.

These steps, while simple, often make the difference between a pass and a fail.

Final Thoughts

A smooth MOT starts with a bit of preparation. By carrying out these seven pre-MOT checks at home, you’ll reduce the risk of failure and keep your car safe for everyday driving around Maidstone.

If you find anything unusual or just want peace of mind, find Malling Repair Services on Google Maps and book your visit. Their team will handle everything, from diagnostics to repairs, to get your car MOT-ready without stress.