How to prepare your car for an MOT

Spend ten minutes with the car before it goes in and you can catch most of the simple faults that cause an MOT fail. You do not need tools, only a clear patch of ground, the handbook and perhaps a helper to watch the lights.

Here is what to check, what to bring, and what to do about anything you find. If you would rather have a mechanic look over the car first, we can do that at Automaster, our garage at Longcombe Cross near Totnes.

What should I check on my car before an MOT?

Start outside with the lights. Switch on the headlights, dipped and main beam, the side lights, the fog lights if fitted and the hazard lights, then walk round and look at each one. Have someone press the brake pedal so you can see the brake lights, and engage reverse with the ignition on to check the reversing light.

Next, look at the number plates. They must be clean, secure and legible, with the correct font and spacing. Finally, check that the horn works and that both mirrors are firmly fixed and give you a clear view behind.

• All exterior lights and indicators
• Number plates clean and undamaged
• Horn working
• Mirrors secure and clear

How do I check tyres and wheels before an MOT?

Look over every tyre, including the spare if it is in use, for cuts, bulges and cracking. The minimum legal tread depth is 1.6 mm across the central three-quarters of the tread. A tread depth gauge is inexpensive, or you can use the tread wear indicators moulded into the grooves.

Check the tyre pressures against your handbook and make sure the wheel nuts or bolts are all present and tight. A missing locking wheel nut key can delay the test, so keep it with the car.

What fluids, wipers and warning lights should I look at?

Top up the screenwash, and test the wipers on the windscreen. If they smear, judder or leave unwiped patches, replace the blades. Look at the windscreen for chips or cracks in the area directly in front of the driver.

With the engine off, check the brake fluid level against the marks on the reservoir, and also the engine oil and coolant according to your handbook. Then switch the ignition on and make sure the warning lights come on and go out as they should. A light that stays on, such as engine management, ABS, airbag or power steering, should be looked at before the test.

Do I need to clean my car or empty the boot before an MOT?

It helps. The car does not need to be spotless, but the tester needs access to seatbelts, seats and the area under the car. Remove heavy or loose items from the boot, clear the driver's footwell and make sure the seats and belts are not buried under clutter.

A very dirty car can make it harder for the tester to inspect the underside or the number plate, and a seatbelt that is stuck behind trim may be recorded as a defect. Check the fuel tank has enough in it as well, because the engine may need to run for emissions measurement.

When should I book my MOT and what should I bring?

You can usually test your car up to a month, less one day, before the current certificate runs out and keep the same renewal date. Booking early leaves time for repairs if something is found. Driving without a valid MOT can lead to a fine, although you can drive to a pre-booked test or repair appointment, provided the car is roadworthy.

Bring the vehicle registration details and any locking wheel nut key. If you know of a fault, tell us when you book so we can plan around it. To arrange a test, ask Automaster for a quote.