Why do cars fail their MOT? The most common reasons
Posted 2026-11-02 by Autotech Cheshire
Many MOT failures are down to simple things you can check yourself in five minutes.
Lights and signalling
Blown bulbs and faulty indicators are among the most common reasons for failure in the UK. Check all your lights, including the number plate lights.
Tyres and wheels
The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm across the central three quarters of the tyre. Check for cuts, bulges and uneven wear too.
Brakes
Worn pads and discs, seized calipers and low brake fluid can all cause a failure.
Suspension
Worn bushes, broken springs and leaking shock absorbers are commonly found on older vehicles. See our suspension repair page.
Visibility
Worn wiper blades, cracked windscreens and empty screen wash can fail a test.
Book your MOT test with us. If you would like a check beforehand, ask about our pre-MOT inspection.
Need help?
Book your service or ask a question: call 01625 575 223 or visit our contact page. We are at Unit 14 & 14A, The Old Brickworks, Bakestonedale Road, Pott Shrigley, Cheshire SK10 5RX.