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What fails an MOT most often?

Many MOT failures are preventable with basic checks and early repairs.

Common failure areas

1

Tyres

Tread depth, damage, sidewall issues

2

Lights

Bulbs out, misalignment, warning lights

3

Brakes

Worn pads/discs, imbalance, leaks

4

Suspension

Worn bushes, ball joints, shocks

5

Emissions

Sensor faults, exhaust leaks, engine issues

What to do before your MOT

  • Check all lights
  • Check tyre condition and pressure
  • Listen for brake grinding or pulling
  • Address dashboard warnings early

If you're unsure, book diagnostics before the MOT so issues can be handled proactively.

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Expert answer

What fails an MOT most often?

Lights, tyres, brakes, visibility, suspension and emissions are common failure areas. A simple pre-test check can catch many visible problems.