Maintenance
MOT Checklist — What Gets Tested and How to Prepare
What testers check, common failures, pre-MOT checks, and costs — for UK cars.
Updated 2026-06-08
Key takeaways
- MOT is roadworthiness at test time — not a service.
- 1.6 mm tread depth and working lights cause most avoidable failures.
- First MOT is due at 3 years; then annually.
- Driving without a valid MOT invalidates most insurance except en route to a booked test.
What the MOT covers
Lights, tyres, brakes, steering, suspension, exhaust emissions, windscreen, wipers, seatbelts, and corrosion on structural areas. It is not a substitute for oil changes or timing belts.
Advisories flag items that may fail next year — budget to fix them early.
Top reasons cars fail
Blown bulbs, worn tyres below 1.6 mm, brake pads or discs, worn wiper blades, exhaust smoke, and suspension play. Many are £20–£80 fixes if caught before the test.
Number-plate lights and washer spray are easy pre-checks.
Pre-MOT checklist (15 minutes)
Walk around and check all lights including fog and brake lights. Honk the horn. Check tyre tread with a 20p coin — outer band should be hidden.
Top up washer fluid, clear boot clutter for spare-wheel access, and ensure the fuel cap seals.
Diesel smoke and DPF
Excessive black or blue smoke fails emissions. A motorway run before the test can help a marginal DPF regenerate — but a glowing engine-management light is an automatic fail.
MOT cost and retests
Maximum fee is set by DVSA — test stations cannot charge above the cap. Many garages bundle MOT with service.
Retest within 10 working days at the same centre is often free or discounted for minor items.
Frequently asked questions
When is my first MOT due?
Three years from registration for most cars, then annually on the anniversary.
Can I drive without a valid MOT?
Only to a pre-booked test or repair. Otherwise it is illegal and usually voids insurance.
Sources
- GOV.UK — MOT — Official rules
- DVSA — MOT inspection manual — What testers follow
Need OEM tire sizes?
Fitment data lives on our tire-size finder — separate from maintenance guides.
Open tire size finder →