Every year in the UK, millions of drivers face the same challenge: the MOT test. For many, it’s a source of stress—what if the car fails? What if repairs are expensive?
The good news is that around half of MOT failures are caused by simple issues that you can check (and fix) yourself before heading to the garage. By following a clear MOT checklist, you can boost your chances of passing the first time, save money, and avoid unnecessary delays.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step MOT preparation checklist that every UK driver should follow before booking their test.
✅ Why Preparing for an MOT Matters
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Avoid Failure: Most MOT fails are due to lights, tyres, or wipers—things you can easily check at home.
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Save Money: Simple fixes cost less if spotted early.
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Stay Legal: Driving without a valid MOT can result in £1,000 fines.
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Peace of Mind: You’ll know your car is roadworthy and safe.
📝 MOT Preparation Checklist
1. Lights and Indicators
Faulty lights are the number one reason cars fail MOTs in the UK.
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Check headlights (full and dipped beam)
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Test indicators (left, right, hazards)
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Make sure brake lights work (ask someone to press the pedal while you check)
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Don’t forget rear number plate lights
💡 Tip: Replacing bulbs is cheap and can save you from an instant fail.
2. Tyres and Wheels
Your tyres must be safe and legal.
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Minimum tread depth: 1.6mm (use a 20p coin test)
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Check for cracks, bulges, or nails
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Ensure tyres are the correct size and type for your vehicle
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Inflate to the recommended pressure (found in your car manual or door sticker)
🚨 Worn tyres are dangerous and one of the most common MOT failure points.
3. Brakes
Brakes are critical for safety and always inspected.
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Listen for grinding noises or squeaks
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Check handbrake holds the car on a slope
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Brake pedal shouldn’t feel “spongy”
If in doubt, have them tested at a garage before your MOT.
4. Windscreen, Wipers, and Washers
Visibility is key.
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Ensure the windscreen is free from cracks or chips larger than 10mm in the driver’s line of sight
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Check wipers are not torn or worn
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Top up screenwash (yes, garages can fail you if it’s empty!)
5. Mirrors and Visibility
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Both wing mirrors and rear-view mirror must be secure and undamaged
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Make sure mirrors give a clear view
6. Exhaust and Emissions
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Check for unusual smoke from exhaust
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Listen for loud or unusual noises (could be a leak)
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Diesel cars: Ensure DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) isn’t removed or tampered with
7. Seat Belts and Seats
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All seat belts must lock securely and be free from damage
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Driver’s seat must adjust properly
8. Horn
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Press your horn—does it sound properly? If not, fix before the MOT.
9. Registration Plates
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Must be clean, secure, and legible
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Correct font and spacing (illegal plates = MOT fail)
10. Fluid Levels
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Check oil, coolant, and brake fluid
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Low levels may trigger warning lights, which can cause an MOT fail
11. Warning Lights
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Dashboard should not display airbag, ABS, or engine warning lights when the car is running
12. Bodywork and General Condition
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Check for sharp edges or corrosion on panels
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Fuel cap must fit securely and seal properly
📅 When Should You Do These Checks?
Do these MOT pre-checks a week before your test. This gives you time to fix any issues or book repairs.
⚡ Quick DIY MOT Pre-Check You Can Do in 10 Minutes
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Turn on all lights → walk around car
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Check tyres visually + 20p test
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Test horn, wipers, and screenwash
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Look for dashboard warning lights
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Clean number plates
🔗 Useful MOT Resources for UK Drivers
Preparing for your MOT doesn’t need to be stressful. By following this MOT checklist, you’ll catch the small issues that cause most failures and increase your chances of passing on the first attempt.
Not only does this save money, but it also ensures your car is safe, legal, and roadworthy. So, take 10 minutes today to run through these checks—you’ll thank yourself when your MOT certificate comes back with a pass.
Read our full guide on MOT Test UK Explained.
GOV.UK MOT check + DVSA MOT guidance
