Every car owner in Nottingham knows the annual MOT test is more than just a box-ticking exercise—it’s a legal requirement and a crucial safety check for your vehicle. But what exactly is an MOT, why does it matter, and what common repairs often stand between you and a pass certificate? At ABS MOTs, we break it down simply. In this guide, you’ll learn about the 6 common MOT repairs and get expert tips to keep your car roadworthy and stress-free year-round.
What is an MOT and Why Does It Matter?
The MOT test (Ministry of Transport test) is an annual inspection required for most vehicles over three years old in the UK. It checks your car’s safety, roadworthiness, and exhaust emissions to ensure it meets legal standards. Failing to have a valid MOT can result in fines, invalidate your insurance, and—most importantly—put you and other road users at risk.
Regular MOTs help catch issues early, saving you money and hassle in the long run. At ABS MOTs, your trusted local garage for MOT in Nottingham, we’re committed to honest, transparent service and expert repairs to keep your vehicle in top condition.
Let’s explore the six most common MOT repairs, why they matter, and how you can avoid them.
1. Lights and Signalling Issues
What’s the issue?
Faulty lights—including headlights, brake lights, indicators, and number plate lights—are the leading cause of MOT failures in the UK. Problems range from blown bulbs to faulty wiring or poor alignment.
Why do they commonly fail the MOT?
The MOT test requires all external lights to work correctly and be properly aligned. Even a single blown bulb or misaligned headlight can trigger a fail, as these are essential for your visibility and signalling intentions to other drivers.
How can it be fixed?
Most light issues are straightforward to repair. Replacing bulbs, fixing wiring, or adjusting alignment can usually be done quickly and affordably at a local garage like ABS MOTs.
Tips to prevent it:
- Regularly check all your lights (front, rear, indicators, brake, fog, and number plate) with the help of a friend.
- Clean dirty or cloudy lenses for maximum brightness.
- Replace faulty bulbs immediately—keep spares in your glovebox for emergencies.
2. Brake System Defects
What’s the issue?
Brakes are critical for safety. MOT failures often stem from worn brake pads, damaged discs, leaking brake fluid, or poor brake performance.
Why do they commonly fail the MOT?
The test checks for minimum brake pad thickness, disc condition, and overall braking efficiency. Any sign of excessive wear, leaks, or uneven braking will result in a fail, as these issues compromise your ability to stop safely.
How can it be fixed?
Repairs may involve replacing brake pads or discs, topping up or flushing brake fluid, or fixing leaks. At ABS MOTs, our technicians use quality parts and thorough checks to ensure your brakes meet all safety standards.
Tips to prevent it:
- Listen for squealing or grinding noises—these often indicate worn pads.
- Have your brakes checked regularly, especially if you notice a change in pedal feel or stopping distance.
- Replace brake pads before they wear below 1.5mm to avoid damaging discs.
3. Tyre Condition and Tread Depth
What’s the problem?
Tyres are your only contact with the road. MOT failures often occur due to not enough tread depth, uneven wear, bulges or cuts in the tyre sidewalls.
Why do they fail the MOT?
The legal minimum tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre. Tyres below this or with visible damage will fail the MOT.
How can it be fixed?
Replace worn or damaged tyres. At ABS MOTs, we have a range of quality tyres and expert fitting to get you back on the road safely.
Tips to prevent it:
- Check your tyre tread and pressure monthly.
- Rotate tyres regularly for even wear.
- Don’t kerb your wheels and drive carefully over potholes.
4. Suspension and Steering Problems
What’s the problem?
Britain’s roads can be tough on your suspension and steering. Common MOT failures include worn out bushes, damaged shock absorbers or faulty steering components.
Why do they fail the MOT?
The MOT checks for excessive play, leaks and damage in suspension and steering systems. Faults can affect handling, stability and comfort – making your car unsafe.
How can it be fixed?
Repairs may involve replacing worn bushes, shock absorbers or steering parts. Our technicians at ABS MOTs diagnose and repair suspension issues using quality components.
Tips to prevent it:
- Listen for knocking or rattling noises over bumps.
- Have your suspension checked if you notice uneven tyre wear or poor handling.
- Book in for a service to catch issues early.
5. Windscreen, Wipers and Washer Fluid
What’s the problem?
A chipped or cracked windscreen, worn wiper blades or empty washer fluid can all cause an MOT fail.
Why do they fail the MOT?
The MOT requires a clear, unobstructed view of the road. Chips or cracks over 10mm in the driver’s line of sight or 40mm elsewhere will fail. Ineffective wipers or empty washer bottles will also fail as they impede your visibility.
How can it be fixed?
Small chips can often be repaired; larger cracks may need a windscreen replacement. Wiper blades are easy to replace and washer fluid can be topped up in minutes – services we offer at ABS MOTs.
Tips to prevent it:
- Check your windscreen for chips and cracks regularly.* Wiper blades every year or if they smear.
- Wash the fluid always.
6. Exhaust and Emissions Failures
What’s the problem?
MOTs are failing due to exhaust system defects, excessive emissions or faulty catalytic converters.
Why do they fail?
The test checks exhaust emissions to make sure your car isn’t polluting above legal limits. Leaks, damaged exhausts or faulty sensors can all cause a fail.
How to fix it?
Repairs may involve fixing leaks, replacing exhaust parts or servicing the engine to reduce emissions. At ABS MOTs, we use the latest diagnostics to find and fix issues quickly.
Tips to prevent it:
- Service your engine regularly and use good-quality fuel.
- Address warning lights or changes in exhaust noise straight away.
- Try to avoid short journeys where possible, as these can block emission control systems.
Conclusion: 6 Common MOT Repairs
By staying on top of these common MOT repairs, you’ll save time, money and stress – not to mention keep you and your passengers safe. At ABS MOTs we offer MOT test repairs, honest advice and a full range of car repairs in Nottingham. Our technicians are here to help whether you need a pre-MOT check, urgent repairs or routine maintenance.
Book your MOT or need help with a repair? Visit our website or call us today to book your appointment. Trust ABS MOTs – your local garage for MOT in Nottingham – for reliable, friendly and professional service every time.