A few simple checks could cut 1.5 million MoT failures yearly

A few simple checks could cut 1.5 million MoT failures yearly

With the new inclusions made to the MoT test last month, a new campaign suggesting that just a small checklist of ten points could reduce the amount of MoT failures by up to 1.5 million each year.

The 'Minute Or Two' campaign, launched by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), aims to push the message that a great number of MoT failures could be prevented by carrying out a few simple checks before handing the vehicle over to the MoT tester. With this in mind, they have produced a list of ten quick checks that should take a minute or two to complete.

1) Check headlights and indicators
Check the car's lights for functionality, making a note of any headlight, sidelight, hazard light, indicator or rear light that does not work.

2) Check for functioning brake lights
Make sure the brake lights come on when you press down on the brake pedal - you will probably need a friend to help with this.

3) Check number plate
Check the vehicle's number plate is readable and clean, and the font used is legal. Give is a quick wipe just to be sure.

4) Check tyres and wheels
Check the tread depth on the tyres is 1.6mm at a minimum; any less will be a fail. Also check for any other damage.

5) Check seatbelts and seats
Make sure any adjustable seats are still in working order, and pull hard on all seatbelts to make sure they lock as they should do.

6) Check windscreen
Look for any chips or other damage to the windscreen; any chips or cracks wider than 10mm in the main area will be a fail.

7) Check wipers
Test the windscreen wipers and make sure they actually clean the windscreen when used. Damage to the rubber section of the wipers can be a fail.

8) Check screen wash
Make sure there is at least some fluid in the washer bottle before the test; an empty bottle can easily cause a fail.

9) Check car horn
Give the car horn a short toot to test it's working. If not, it will need replacing or repairing.

10) Check oils
The vehicle should have decent levels of engine and fuel oil. Without, the car can be turned away by the MoT tester, as they are needed for emissions tests.

The SMMT Interim Chief Executive, Mike Baunton, commented: "With the introduction of a number of new additions to the annual MOT test just last month, it is even more important for vehicle owners to understand the advantage that a few simple checks could make to the outcome of their test. Indeed we would encourage the simple checks to be conducted regularly between MOT tests to ensure the vehicle is safe."

You can read more about the MoT test and tips for passing here: http://www.passmymot.co.uk/

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