Intro is Important
If your vehicle is due for its MOT test, it’s smart to understand the most common reasons cars fail especially in the UK where road conditions, weather, and mileage all take their toll. According to DVSA statistics, around 40% of vehicles fail their MOT first time, often for avoidable reasons.
At One Stop Auto Centre, we help hundreds of customers pass their MOTs every month. In this blog, we break down the top 10 MOT failure reasons and how to avoid them saving you time, money, and stress.
1. Faulty Lights & Indicators
Why It Fails:
Blown bulbs, faded lenses, or broken indicator signals.
What to Do:
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Check all your lights before the MOT
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Make sure the indicators flash at the correct rate
Need help? Pop into our garage for a quick lights check often done in minutes.
2. Suspension Issues
Why It Fails:
Worn shock absorbers, broken springs, or damage from potholes (common on UK roads).
What to Do:
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Listen for knocking sounds while driving
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Notice uneven ride height or poor handling
3. Brake Problems
Why It Fails:
Worn pads, corroded discs, or handbrake not holding.
What to Do:
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Feel for vibration or grinding when braking
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Check dashboard brake warning lights
We offer brake inspection and same-day repair services to keep you safe and legal.
4. Tyre Condition
Why It Fails:
Tread below 1.6mm, bulges, cuts, or uneven wear.
What to Do:
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Use a 20p coin to check tread depth
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Check pressure and look for visible damage
Free tyre check available at our garage — plus great deals on replacement tyres!
5. Windscreen Wipers & Washers
Why It Fails:
Wipers that smear, tear, or don’t clear the screen properly.
What to Do:
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Replace wipers if they squeak or skip
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Refill washer fluid before your test
Quick fix: Wiper blade replacements done while you wait.
6. Exhaust & Emissions
Why It Fails:
Excessive smoke, loud exhaust, or failed emissions test.
What to Do:
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Get engine warning lights diagnosed
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Book an emissions check (especially for diesel or ULEZ vehicles)
We use modern diagnostic tools to keep your car compliant with UK emissions rules
7. Registration Plate Issues
Why It Fails:
Incorrect spacing, faded text, or illegal fonts.
What to Do:
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Clean your number plates
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Make sure they match DVLA requirements
Need a replacement? We sell road-legal custom plates — order online or visit us.
8. Seatbelts & Restraints
Why It Fails:
Frayed belts, faulty mechanisms, or seats that don’t lock.
What to Do:
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Pull all belts to check tension and retraction
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Inspect for wear or tear
We’ll check all restraints as part of your MOT pre-check service.
9. Steering Faults
Why It Fails:
Steering feels loose, tight, or misaligned.
What to Do:
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Check power steering fluid levels
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Listen for unusual noises when turning
We provide wheel alignment and steering diagnostics — book online today.
10. Mirrors, Doors & General Visibility
Why It Fails:
Cracked mirrors, stuck doors, or poor windscreen visibility.
What to Do:
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Replace any broken glass or mirrors
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Ensure all doors open and close securely
Clean your windscreen and windows thoroughly before the test.
How to Avoid an MOT Failure
Quick Pre-MOT Checklist:
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Lights (all around)
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Tyres (tread & pressure)
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Brakes (listen/feel for signs)
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Wipers & washers (test spray)
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Number plates (clean and legal)
At One Stop Auto Centre, we offer:
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MOT Pre-Check Service – so you don’t fail on simple faults
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DVSA-approved MOT Testing
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Full repairs & servicing under one roof
Book Your MOT or Pre-Check in South East London
Don’t risk a failed MOT — let us help. We’re trusted by thousands in the South East London area.
- DVSA-approved garage
- Competitive prices
- Free re-test if you fail with us
Same-day MOT slots
Book Your MOT Now
📍 One Stop Auto Centre, SE28 0BQ London
📞 Call us: 020 8854 8382
📱 WhatsApp us: Chat Now
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