Top tips to help your vehicle pass

If your vehicle has been serviced regularly by your authorised Listers Service Centre to the manufacturer’s specification it should pass its MOT test. However it can be frustrating to fail a test for something that you could easily rectify e.g. an empty washer bottle. Read on to find out what you can do to help your vehicle pass:

  • Check your windscreen washers, wipers, horn, mirrors, seatbelts, fuel and tyres (including pressures) just prior to the test.
  • Get someone to stand outside the car while all lights - front, rear, indicators and hazard are checked. Replace or repair if broken or faulty.
  • Ensure that the number plates and the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) plates are clean and legible.
  • Check suspension by applying your weight to each corner of the car, then release. The car should settle down quickly.
  • Check the operation of footbrakes and handbrakes. Also check the Anti Lock Braking Systems (ABS) light operation if fitted.
  • Check that seatbelts operate correctly.
  • A tyre depth of 1.6mm is the legal minimum requirement. Check tyres and ensure they are free from damage. Whilst the spare tyre is not part of the test it is advisable to carry a correctly inflated and legal tyre.
  • Check the driver's view for damage to the windscreen.
  • Check the exhaust by starting the engine and listening at the rear of the vehicle for any excessive noise which could indicate an exhaust leak. Emission checks are an important part of the test. Regular servicing should alleviate problems with emissions.
  • Check under the bonnet to ensure that the brake fluid, windscreen washer fluid and engine oil is topped up correctly.
  • A general check around the vehicle should be made to ensure that the car's fuel cap is secure, mirrors are in good condition, wipers are not damaged or split and locks work.

And finally...

Don’t forget to take your V5C Vehicle Registration Document and current MOT certificate to the test.

Remember, the MOT Test is not a substitute for the servicing of a vehicle or a statement of the condition of a vehicle offered for sale.