The RAC has analysed data from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) to explore the reasons why cars fail the MOT test.
It reveals that UK-registered cars and vans are most likely to experience a dreaded MOT fail due to problems with lighting.
Faulty headlights, indicators and reflectors accounted for more than one-quarter (25.5 percent) of all MOT failures in the 12 months to March 2022.
This was followed by broken suspension components, which resulted in close to one-fifth (18.3 percent) of test fails.
Tyres and brakes a major concern
Brakes were responsible for 17 percent of MOT failures, with tyres the cause of 12 percent, then poor visibility accounting for 8.7 percent.
However, when it comes to the most serious MOT failures, two components were far ahead of the rest. Tyres and brakes made up 88 percent of dangerous defects – i.e. those where the vehicle cannot be driven until the problem is rectified.
Such dangerous faults now account for nearly one in 10 (8.1 percent) of MOT failures.
The RAC notes that MOT failures due to tyres are increasing: up from 10 percent in 2018-19. This is supported by a recent Institute of the Motor Industry study, which suggests that tyres are the ‘weakest link’ in vehicle maintenance. Electric vehicles in particular are more likely to fail on tyres, making up 46 percent of all EV test failures.
Get problems fixed early
Data shows that one-in-three initial MOT tests for cars and vans results in a failure. This leaves drivers with the cost of remedial work, despite many issues being easy to spot in advance.
RAC head of roads policy Nicholas Lyes said: “Many drivers dread taking their vehicle for its annual MOT for fear they could end up having to spend lots of money on repairs in order to get it to pass. This is no doubt the case for an unlucky third of owners whose vehicles fail their MOTs initially.
“Drivers should never ignore dashboard warning lights as they could end up putting themselves or others at risk and costing themselves a lot of money with a bigger repair bill than necessary had they acted straightaway. Additionally, routine servicing helps reduce the chance of a vehicle failing its MOT as it includes a host of important basic checks.
“It’s also advisable to have someone check rear lights and indicators are working if the vehicle does not have modern dashboard warning lights. Keeping tyres properly inflated and having a smooth driving style will often help prolong the life of the rubber. And if something doesn’t sound or feel right, to get checked at a trusted garage as soon as possible.”
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