An MOT failure means a re-test fee, wasted time, and potentially a car you can't legally drive. The good news is that most common failure points are easy to check and fix before your test.
**Check all lights.** Walk around the car and check every light is working — headlights (dipped and full beam), brake lights, indicators, fog lights and reversing lights. Replace any blown bulbs before your test.
**Check your wipers and screen wash.** Wipers must clear the screen effectively. Screen wash must be topped up and working.
**Tyre tread and pressure.** The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm, but many testers look for at least 2mm. Check your tyre pressure too.
**Brakes.** If your brakes feel spongy, pull to one side, or you can hear grinding or squealing, have them checked before your MOT.
**Horn.** It must work — simple, but often overlooked.
**Mirrors.** All mirrors must be present, undamaged and adjustable.
**Seatbelts.** All seatbelts must click in, hold firmly, and retract properly.
**Consider a pre-MOT check.** EC Vehicle Repairs offers a professional pre-MOT inspection that checks all the items your tester will examine. We identify any issues and can often fix them on the same day — maximising your chances of passing first time.
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EC Vehicle Repairs covers Waterlooville, Portsmouth, Havant, Fareham and all surrounding Hampshire areas. We come to you — at home, work or roadside.