Worried about your next MOT? With a little preparation, you can avoid a lot of stress - and possibly save money on repairs. At James Dudley Auto Services in Normanton on Soar, Loughborough, we help motorists pass their MOTs with fewer surprises. Here's what to check before your car is tested.
What Does an MOT Include?
The MOT test checks whether your vehicle meets the minimum safety and environmental standards required by law. It includes:
- Lighting and signalling equipment
- Brakes, tyres and wheels
- Suspension and steering
- Wipers, washers and windscreen
- Seatbelts and mirrors
- Bodywork condition and structure
- Exhaust system and emissions
The test doesn't cover the engine, clutch, or gearbox — but it does include many items you can check yourself before the test day.
Quick Checks to Do Before Your MOT
1. Test All Your Lights
Ask a friend to help you check the headlights, brake lights, fog lights, indicators, and number plate lights. Replace any bulbs that aren't working.
2. Check Tyre Tread and Pressure
Your tyres must have a tread depth of at least 1.6mm across the middle 75% of the tyre. Uneven wear or sidewall damage can also result in a fail. Make sure pressures are correct according to your vehicle handbook.
3. Clean Your Windscreen and Check Wipers
Your view of the road must be clear. If your wipers smear or miss spots, replace them. Also make sure the washer fluid is topped up — believe it or not, an empty washer bottle is a common MOT fail!
4. Inspect Seatbelts
Check that all seatbelts are fully functional and not frayed or cut. They should retract smoothly and click securely into the latch.
5. Look for Dashboard Warning Lights
If any warning lights remain on when the engine is running — particularly the airbag, ABS, or engine light — this could result in a fail. Get them checked before your MOT.
Common MOT Failures We See in Loughborough
- Blown bulbs
- Worn brake pads or discs
- Tyres below the legal limit
- Broken or smeary wipers
- Excessive emissions
All of these are avoidable with basic maintenance. If you’re unsure, we offer a pre-MOT check to highlight issues before the official test.
What If Your Car Fails?
If your vehicle doesn’t pass, we’ll give you a detailed breakdown of what needs fixing and a fair quote for repairs. If we carry out the repairs, we’ll also retest your car free of charge within 10 working days.
Book Your MOT in Normanton on Soar
James Dudley Auto Services is your trusted local MOT test centre, located at Unit 1, Hathernware Industrial Estate, Normanton on Soar, Loughborough, LE12 5EH. We provide honest MOTs for cars and vans, with a focus on transparency and service.
Click here to book your MOT online or call us on 01509 646791.
James Dudley Auto Services – Keeping Loughborough drivers safe and legal on the road.
