Almost 40 per cent of the cars fail the MOT test the first time around. And surprisingly, 50 per cent of the defects found out at the time of the test could be detected and repaired in advance. You could save a significant amount of money and time by conducting these easy maintenance checks at home before taking the car to the centre for getting the test done. This would increase the chances of your vehicle passing the test in the first shot itself.
There are many ways by which failing the test could be avoided. Following are some tips for the same:
Lights According to a recent research report, 30 per cent of all the faults that pop up during the MOT test are associated with the car’s lights. Inspecting the lights of your car is one of the simplest things you could do at home. You need to switch the fog lights, headlights, hazards, and indicators to check if they are fully operational. To check the brake lights, someone could be standing behind the car when the driver is pressing the brake pedal. In case of a damaged bulb, you could get a new one fitted as per the instructions mentioned in the owner’s manual. Visiting a trusted repair facility is also a great option if you are unwilling to take this activity up yourself. The lights should be coloured correctly as per the rules, and all the parameters should be legal. The headlight must be white, whereas the brake lights could be red.
- Depth of the tyre’s tread
False depth of the tyre’s tread could also lead to you failing the MOT test. The tread depth should be inspected frequently, and if the tread is low, you should immediately replace it as with reduced ability to grip the danger increases while driving. The depth should be below the legal limits as per the local laws.
- Condition of the tyres
The sidewall of the car’s tyre should be checked for any potential damage like cuts, cracks, bulges, and lumps, as these could lead the car to fail the MOT test. In case of such damage, the expert should be contacted immediately as these could pose a risk to the safety of the passengers on board and the road as well.
- Windscreen
The view while driving should be free from any obstruction and damage. Any toys, stickers, or any such objects should not be present on the windscreen as it could hinder the driver’s vision and make the car fail the test.
- Washers and Wipers
The washers and wipers also play a role in ensuring a clear view while driving. Hence, it is imperative to ensure that the wipers are working fine and free from damage. The screenwash should be topped up, and everything should be thoroughly checked before proceeding with the MOT test.
- Brakes
If the brakes make weird noises or the car is pulling towards one side while braking, immediate inspection is required. This could be dangerous and make the car prone to accidents. The fluid levels of the brake should be checked time and again.
- Seat Belts
The seat belts should be properly functional and devoid of any damage. The belt should resist the sudden force that occurs while braking the car during an emergency.
- Registration Plates
The registration plates must be clean and displayed in the rear and front areas. They should be legible and in decent condition. The plates should follow the regulations of the DVSA. The vehicle’s chassis has the identification number stamped on it, which should also be readable.
- Mirrors
The mirrors should be washed and wiped to ensure the driver’s view is not obstructed in any way. The rearview and wing mirrors all are equally important, and hence they should be damaged or broken. It is highly advised to get them repaired if they are.
- Car’s Body
Ensure the car’s body is damage-free, like without uneven edges, which could harm other cars while driving. The car should be clean inside out, creating a good impression on the evaluator.
All these parameters would help you pass the APK Utrecht in the first go and save you the hassle of repeatedly undergoing the tests.