Getting ready for your MOT can seem stressful, especially if you’re not sure what to expect. Many drivers worry about failing the test or dealing with unexpected repair costs. But the truth is, most MOT failures happen for small, avoidable reasons. With a little preparation, you can handle those checks yourself and give your car a strong chance of passing the first time.
Your MOT isn’t just a legal requirement, it’s also a yearly reminder to make sure your car is safe and running properly. Whether you drive daily around town or only occasionally, keeping your vehicle in good condition helps prevent breakdowns and keeps you and others safe on the road.
If you live nearby, booking your MOT Aldershot test early with a trusted local garage is one of the best ways to stay organised. A few simple checks and a bit of planning can turn MOT day into a smooth, stress-free experience.
This guide walks you through practical steps to prepare your car, what to look for before the test, and how to avoid the common issues that lead to failure.
What Is an MOT Test Check?
The MOT test checks if your car meets safety and environmental standards. It’s a legal requirement for most vehicles over three years old in the UK. The inspection covers brakes, tyres, suspension, lights, exhaust, and emissions.
An MOT doesn’t fix issues, it simply identifies them. If something’s wrong, you’ll need to repair it before getting a pass. Many MOT failures are caused by simple things you can catch yourself beforehand.
Start with a General Clean-Up
Clean your car before the test. A tidy car helps the examiner do their job easily and creates a better impression. Remove rubbish from inside, clear out the boot, and wipe down the dashboard.
Make sure the registration plates are clean and easy to read. If dirt or grime hides the numbers, that alone can lead to a fail. Small effort, big result.
Check All Your Lights
Faulty lights are one of the main reasons cars fail their MOT. Go around your car and test every light, headlights, brake lights, reverse lights, fog lights, and indicators.
Ask someone to help you press the brakes while you check the rear lights. If any bulb doesn’t work, replace it before your test. It’s an easy fix and makes a big difference.
Inspect the Tyres
Tyres are another key part of MOT testing. Check the tread depth, it must be at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre. You can use a 20p coin to measure it; if the outer rim of the coin is visible, the tread is too low.
Look for cracks, cuts, or bulges on the sidewalls. Tyres should also be inflated to the right pressure, which you can find in your car manual or inside the driver door frame.
Tyres in poor condition are a common cause of MOT failure, but they’re easy to fix in advance.
Test Your Brakes
Your car should stop smoothly and straight. If you feel vibration when braking or hear squealing, your pads or discs may need attention. The handbrake should hold the car firmly on a slope without extra pulling.
Listen for grinding or scraping noises when you press the brake pedal. These often point to worn pads or discs, both of which can lead to failure.
Suspension and Steering
Suspension problems can be subtle. You might feel knocking or bouncing when going over bumps, or notice uneven tyre wear. When stationary, push down on each corner of the car; it should rise back evenly. If it bounces several times, the shock absorbers may be worn.
The steering should also feel steady. Loose or heavy steering could mean worn components that need checking.
Wipers and Windscreen
Your wipers and washers must work properly. Replace worn blades if they leave streaks or miss patches of glass. Refill the washer bottle with screenwash, not plain water.
Check the windscreen for cracks or large chips, especially within the driver’s line of vision. Even a small crack in that area can cause a failure. Chips can usually be repaired quickly before the test.
Mirrors and Seatbelts
All mirrors must be secure and unbroken. Adjust them for clear visibility.
Seatbelts need to be in good condition. Pull them sharply to check they lock correctly. Make sure they’re not frayed or twisted. A faulty seatbelt will always fail the test.
Exhaust and Emissions
Your car’s exhaust system should be secure and free from leaks. Listen for rattling or loud noises. If you see blue or black smoke from the exhaust, it could mean oil or fuel is burning incorrectly.
To improve your car’s emissions before testing, take it for a longer drive at higher speeds. This helps the engine reach proper temperature and clear out soot from the exhaust system.
Check Fluid Levels
Top up engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and screenwash before your MOT. Low fluids may not always mean failure, but they can indicate neglect. It’s an easy task that shows your car is maintained well.
If you’re unsure which fluids to use, your car’s handbook will list the correct types and levels.
Horn and Warning Lights
Press your horn to ensure it works clearly and loudly.
Dashboard warning lights are another important area. If your engine, ABS, or airbag light is on, it could cause an immediate fail. Book a quick diagnostic check to find out the reason and fix it before your MOT date.
Book Early to Stay Prepared
You can book your MOT test up to one month before the current certificate expires. Doing it early gives you time to fix any problems without losing your renewal date.
Booking in advance also helps you avoid last-minute rushes, especially during busy months when many drivers book their tests at the same time.
Choose Gforce Tyres For Professional Pre MOT Inspection
Before the test, you can get a pre-MOT inspection to make sure your car meets all the key checks. Local garages in Aldershot, such as Gforce Tyres, offer quick MOT preparation and inspection services. They check tyres, brakes, lights, and suspension to help reduce the risk of failure.
Their technicians can also handle minor repairs right away, saving you from rebooking or dealing with a fail notice later. It’s a practical way to make sure your car passes safely and stays reliable on the road.
Final Pre-Test Checks
On the day of your MOT, do one last check. Make sure all doors open and close smoothly. Test the fuel cap to confirm it seals properly. Clear your windscreen and mirrors for a clean view.
Bring your logbook and previous MOT certificate if you have them. These small details make the process smoother and faster.
Conclusion
Preparing your car for an MOT isn’t just about passing the test, it’s about safety, reliability, and confidence every time you drive. Most of the issues that cause failures are minor and easy to fix if you spot them early. A little care before your test can save you money, stress, and time later on.
By keeping your tyres in good shape, checking your lights, and staying on top of fluid levels, you’ll already cover most of what examiners look for. And if you’re ever unsure, getting your car checked by a local expert before the test is always a smart move.
Taking these small steps will help your car pass the first time and stay roadworthy all year round. If you’re nearby, book your MOT Aldershot test in advance so you can take care of any small issues early and enjoy peace of mind knowing your vehicle is safe and ready for the road ahead.
