Essential Pre-MOT Checks to consider

Driving a Tusker car may come with the convenience of servicing and maintenance included in your monthly amounts, but that doesn’t mean you should neglect regular checks. Failing an MOT for something as simple as not topping up your screenwash is a hassle you can easily avoid. It’ll also keep your vehicle serviced in line with the manufacture’s schedule, so here are ten quick and essential checks to ensure your vehicle passes its next MOT with flying colours and minimal hassle:

1. Inspect Your Lights

Did you know that 30% of MOT failures are due to faulty lights? Avoid this by thoroughly testing all your vehicle’s lights, including:

• Headlights (fog, full, and normal beams)
• Side lights
• Hazard lights
• Indicators
• Brake lights

2. Check Tyre Tread Depth

When was the last time you checked your tyre tread depth? The RAC recommends doing this every two week if you do lots of driving. Under UK law, tyres must have a tread depth of at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre and around its entire circumference.

A simple way to check is by using a 20p coin: insert it into the tread, and if the coin’s raised edge is visible, your tread is too low and it’s time to get new tyres. Or simply pop along to your nearest Kwik-Fit depot who will happily do a full tyre inspection for you, just be sure to tell them that it is a Tusker vehicle. Tusker cars come with tyre replacement included in the cost, so this couldn’t be cheaper or easier!

3. Examine Your Windscreen and Wipers

On a dry day, its best to test your wipers using your windscreen washer. Your wipers should effectively clear the water without leaving streaks or showing signs of damage. If your wipers are not clearing properly and show no signs of damage, it might just be a build-up of oil and road surface dirt. Give the rubber area of the wiper a clean with a paper towel and that should fix it.

While checking your wipers, also inspect your windscreen for cracks or chips. Damage larger than 40mm anywhere on the windscreen, or chips over 10mm in the area swept by the wipers will result in an MOT failure.

If you have a windscreen crack or chip, give Tusker a call and select the glass option on the driverline where we can arrange for a technician to visit and make the necessary repairs. Depending on the work needed, there may be an insurance excess payable.

4. Top Up Fluids

Failing your MOT due to a lack of screenwash is easily preventable. Simply grab some from your nearest supermarket or car-accessory store, follow the instructions, and top up your reservoir. Additionally, for petrol and diesel cars, ensure you have sufficient fuel and oil. The MOT centre needs to run the engine to complete the test, and insufficient levels could result in your test being postponed.

5. Inspect Seatbelts and Seats

Even if you’re often the only one in your car, it’s crucial to check all seats and seatbelts for potential issues, as this is an important part of the MOT:

• Ensure the driver’s seat is fully adjustable.
• Check that all seats are securely fitted and can be locked in an upright position.
• Look for tears or damage along the entire length of each seatbelt.
• Test that each seatbelt locks when sharply tugged.

6. Test Your Horn

Since we don’t often use our car horns, it’s easy to overlook them. Give your horn a quick honk to ensure it’s functioning correctly. A faulty horn will result in an automatic MOT failure.

7. Clean Your Number Plate

A dirty or damaged number plate can result in an MOT failure. Make sure your number plate is clean, clearly visible, securely attached, and free of damage. The plate should have the correct colour, and the numbers and letters must be properly spaced to avoid an MOT failure, or a potential fine of up to £1,000.

8. Check Your Brakes

Brakes are responsible for 10% of MOT failures. Minimise your risk by testing your brakes regularly. Listen for unusual noises and ensure your car doesn’t pull to one side when braking. If you notice any issues, give Tusker a call and we can get a garage to look at that for you.

9. Review Dashboard Warning Lights

Dashboard warning lights are there for a reason. If any lights are illuminated, such as the main beam, ABS, engine warning, brake fluid, or airbag warning lights, it’s essential to address them before your MOT. Again, give Tusker a call and we’ll organise for a garage appointment for you.

10. Check Your Suspension

Checking your suspension is simple: push down on each corner of the car to test for worn shock absorbers. If the car bounces up and down instead of returning to its original position quickly, or if you hear knocking noises, your shocks may be worn and could require replacement. If in doubt, ask us to book you a servicing appointment and we’ll get it checked.

0333 400 2020