FAQs
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Category:
MOT Failures
Yes, in most cases you do.
If a warning light is on for systems such as engine management, ABS or airbags, it can cause your car to fail an MOT. Even if the vehicle feels fine to drive, these systems are considered essential for safety and emissions.
Getting warning lights checked in advance is one of the simplest ways to avoid an MOT failure.
Category:
MOT Failures
It is often not one major fault, but a combination of smaller issues.
Things like tyre wear, lighting problems, worn wipers and dashboard warning lights are among the most common reasons cars fail an MOT. These are usually easy to fix, but they are also easy to overlook if you are not checking regularly.
Category:
MOT Failures
The best way to avoid your car failing an MOT is to check the basics before your test.
Simple things like tyre condition, lights, wipers and fluid levels are often the reason vehicles fail. A quick check at home, or having the car looked over beforehand, can help catch these issues early and improve your chances of passing first time.
Categories:
Modern Car MOT Failures
MOT Tips
Not every warning light leads to an MOT failure, but many do. Lights linked to safety systems, emissions, braking or airbags will usually result in a fail if they are illuminated during the test. If a warning light appears, it’s best to have it checked before your MOT rather than assuming it’s harmless.
Category:
Modern Car MOT Failures
Newer cars are built to higher safety and environmental standards, but they rely on far more electronic systems. Sensors, warning lights, emissions controls and driver assistance features are all monitored closely during an MOT. Even small faults that don’t affect how the car drives can trigger a failure, whereas older cars had fewer systems capable of flagging issues.
Category:
Modern Car MOT Failures
No. Modern car MOT failures usually reflect increased complexity, not reduced reliability. Today’s vehicles are designed to detect problems earlier and operate within tighter safety and emissions limits. While this can lead to more MOT failures, it also helps prevent more serious issues from developing unnoticed.
Category:
Modern Car MOT Failures
No. The MOT rules coming into effect from 2026 are not designed to make tests harder for drivers. The core MOT checks and testing frequency remain unchanged. Instead, the updates focus on stricter oversight of MOT testing, improved equipment standards for modern and heavier vehicles, increased fraud prevention, and clearer guidance for testing modern vehicle technology. For most drivers, the MOT experience will feel the same, but results should be more consistent and trustworthy.