The UK government is paying a lot of attention towards road and environmental safety. More than 1.9 million class 3 and 4 vehicles failed their MOT test in the 3rd Quarter of 2024 alone, according to the DVSA. This represents 28.9% of all tests, which is up by 1.6% in comparison to the previous quarter.
The majority of these MOT tests in Basingstoke fail because of simple faults that can be easily rectified. This blog describes common errors made by vehicle owners along with a checklist, and how car service in Basingstoke can assist with a clear MOT.
What Is the MOT?
The Car MOT test in Basingstoke is a legal assessment for cars that are over three years old and is aimed at ensuring road safety and environmental protection. It is not an alternative to periodic servicing but a focused check of vehicle systems such as brakes, tyres, lights, emissions, and steering. With all the city traffic, old infrastructure, and residential areas in Basingstoke, an MOT inspection is a must for dependable and safe daily commutes.
Why Do Cars Fail MOTs?
DVSA statistics reveal that almost 3 in every 10 cars fail their MOT test annually. Ironically, the most frequent cause of failure is comparatively minor and preventable. These are:
- Lighting and signalling faults: The most commonly seen fault is a blown bulb or defective indicators.
- Suspension faults: Frequently caused by potholes and speed bumps on the local roads.
- Tyre damage or lack of tread: Most drivers don’t know the legal requirement set for a tyre.
- Brake wear: It is an ignored worn-down pad or fluid leak.
- Vision problems: DIY job on broken wipers or windscreen cracks.
The majority of these issues can be detected beforehand with a simple inspection or a quick trip to a local garage providing pre-MOT checks.
What to Check Before the Test
Taking 20 to 30 minutes to inspect a vehicle before the MOT test in Hampshire can prevent a test failure and the hassle of a retest. The following are the vital parts drivers should check:
Infographic: DVSA says: 1.9M MOT fails in Q3 2024
Most common reasons?
- Lamps & electricals: 29.75%
- Suspension: 22.2%
- Brakes: 13.7%
1. Lights and indicators
Make a complete drive around of the vehicle and check all lighting equipment such as headlights, brake lights, reverse lights, fog lamps, indicators, and number plate light. Failure can be caused by a single faulty bulb.
2. Tyres
Make sure tyres are not less than 1.6mm tread deep. Try the 20p test, if the outer band is visible when placed in the tread, the tyre might need changing. Check for bulges and cracks too, and ensure correct pressure levels. Some garages in Hampshire, particularly in Sneinton or Hyson Green, provide free pressure checks.
3. Fluids and exhaust
Levels of oil, coolant, and screenwash must be checked before the test. Any excessive smoke from the exhaust, especially on cold winter mornings, could indicate a more serious mechanical failure.
4. Brakes and suspension
Listen for squealing or grinding sounds on braking. In the event the handbrake is not holding and the car bounces upwards and downwards whenever it's pressed down a corner, it might be a sign of worn-out suspension or faulty shock absorbers.
5. Windscreen and wipers
Given the fluctuating Basingstoke weather, having good visibility is essential. Windshields should be free of large chips or cracks, especially in the driver's viewing area. Wipers should be in good condition, and washer fluid should be working and full.
Why Book MOT alongside Car Service in Hampshire?
Scheduling an MOT Test in Basingstoke in combination with a car service is an efficient and affordable option for most Basingstoke vehicle owners. It is time-saving as it minimises the number of visits to the garage and enables mechanics to fix any issues before an MOT failure.
While the MOT checks your car is up to minimum legal standards, a service takes it one step further, inspecting the general condition of the engine, the fluids, the filters, the brakes, and more. Booking them together means that any potential problems identified during the service.
Numerous reputable garages throughout Basingstoke, such as DPR Motors MOT and Service Centre, provide interim, full, and major car services to fit the vehicle’s needs.
Above all, having both checks means the car not only follows the general road guidelines but also performs at its best.
Final Tips for Hampshire Drivers
To ensure passing the MOT Test in Hampshire the first time, drivers are urged to reserve their MOT in advance and not wait till the very end. Booking in the eleventh hour or particularly during busy periods like student term or holiday periods can result in rushed work. Regular upkeep throughout the year, and not only at the time of the test, is crucial.
Warning lights on the dashboard must be attended to immediately, as these will cause an automatic fail. Looking up a "garage near me" and checking online reviews can assist in finding reliable service providers. With a little bit of planning and a trusted Hampshire garage, the MOT procedure can be easy and hassle-free