Getting ready for your MOT? No one wants to face the hassle and cost of a failure — especially when many issues are quick fixes you can sort at home. At Spencers MOT, we want to make things easy. That’s why we’ve created this simple 10-minute pre-check routine you can do yourself to pass your MOT test.
Tick these off, and you’ll be one big step closer to a pass.
1. Check All Your Lights
Lights are one of the most common MOT failure points — and one of the easiest to fix.
- Turn on your headlights (dip and full beam), indicators, hazard lights, brake lights and reverse lights.
- Ask a friend to help check the rear lights while you operate the controls.
- Don’t forget your number plate lights — they need to be working too.
Quick fix: If a bulb’s gone, replacements are usually inexpensive and easy to swap out.
2. Test Your Mirrors and Windscreen
Visibility is key to passing your MOT.
- You need three mirrors: interior rear-view and at least one on either side of the car.
- Make sure your windscreen is clean and free of major cracks or chips — especially in the driver’s line of sight.
Quick fix: Remove sat navs or stickers from the windscreen before the test.
3. Top Up Your Washer Fluid
A surprising number of MOT failures happen because the screenwash bottle is empty.
- Check the washer jets spray properly when you use the stalk.
- Top up with screenwash — water alone may not meet requirements, especially in winter.
Quick fix: It takes 30 seconds and can be done with a supermarket bottle of pre-mixed screenwash.
4. Honk the Horn
It might sound silly, but a working horn is a legal requirement.
- Give it a quick press. If there’s no sound, that’s an MOT fail.
- A broken horn could be down to a fuse or loose connection — your garage can fix this easily.
5. Inspect Your Tyres
Worn tyres are a serious safety issue and an instant fail.
- Check the tread depth: UK law requires at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre.
- Look for cuts, bulges or cracks on the sidewalls.
- Make sure all tyres are the same size and type on each axle.
Quick fix: Use a 20p coin — if the outer band of the coin is visible, your tread is too low.
6. Check the Number Plates
Your number plates need to be clean, secure and readable.
- No cracks, fading, or peeling letters.
- Must follow the UK format and use the standard font.
Quick fix: Give them a wipe down before the test — dirt or grime can obscure characters.
7. Look for Warning Lights
When you turn on the ignition, all dashboard lights should come on briefly, then go out.
- If a warning light stays on (engine, airbag, ABS, etc.), that could cause a fail.
- Some lights may be acceptable depending on the issue, but best to get them checked before the test.
8. Secure Seatbelts and Seats
MOT testers check that:
- Seatbelts retract properly, fasten securely and aren’t frayed.
- Driver’s seat is secure and adjusts as intended.
Give all seatbelts a tug and make sure the front seats are fixed firmly in position.
Quick Recap: Your 10-Minute Checklist to pass your MOT
| Check | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Lights | All working, no broken bulbs |
| Mirrors & Windscreen | Clear view, no damage |
| Washer Fluid | Full and working jets |
| Horn | Loud and functional |
| Tyres | 1.6mm tread, no damage |
| Number Plates | Clean and readable |
| Warning Lights | None remain on |
| Seatbelts & Seats | Secure and undamaged |
Book with Confidence at Spencers MOT
Doing this pre-check can’t guarantee a pass — but it does reduce your chances of failing on something simple. At Spencers MOT, we carry out thorough, DVSA-approved tests and we’re happy to advise on any issues beforehand.
Need to book your MOT?
Call us or book online today — and drive in with confidence.
MOT service further reading
Getting an MOT – UK GOV advice
