Many vehicles fail an MOT for small issues which could easily been prevented before the test. You might be surprised at what can fail a check mot history - some problems are relatively minor.
It’s a good idea to prepare an MOT checklist a couple of weeks before the date of inspection to make sure your vehicle is in the best possible condition it can be, this will allow you to proactively fix the issues and avoid any inconvenient circumstances if the vehicle fails the test.
It is worth clarifying; however, if your car fails its MOT, then you cannot keep your renewal date.
Complete MOT checklist

Pre-MOT checks
There are some quick things you can do as a driver to give your vehicle the best chase of passing its MOT. We go into more detail below.
Keep your car clean, inside and out. A boot full of clutter and an excessively dirty car could lead to an examiner refusing to carry out the MOT.
Give number plates a clean as they need to be readable to pass the MOT.
Check mot status the windscreen wipers are in good condition, with no tears.
Check all lights are in working order. Ask a friend or family member to stand outside the car and confirm lights function properly.
Check tire tread using the 20p test, and tier pressure too
Top up all fluid levels - screen wash, brake fluid and oil.
Check that the horn works - give it a quick honk!
All of your mirrors should be intact and secure to ensure you can use them safely.
The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) in your car’s V5C logbook should match that marked on your car’s bodywork.
Brakes
Along with your tyres, your brakes are the most safety-critical components of all, and they must work properly to pass the mot history.
Testers usually put the car on rollers to check the brakes decelerate it effectively, and that they’re correctly balanced – i.e. that it stops in a straight line. The pedal rubber must not be worn to excess and the ABS warning light must work if anti-lock brakes are fitted. The handbrake/parking brake must work and hold the car firmly, even on a steep incline.
Brake condition is also assessed by examining the discs, pads and calipers, plus the relevant pipes and cables. Under the bonnet, the brake servo and master cylinder will be examined, too.
Bodywork
Sharp edges on the bodywork caused by corrosion or accident damage are not permitted, as they could injure pedestrians.
Rust is an MOT issue more generally, particularly for older cars. Excessive corrosion on safety-related parts, such as the steering and brakes, is a no-no, while rust within 30cm of these components may also result in a fail.
Doors and openings
Testers will check that the doors can be opened from inside and outside the car, and that all openings – including the bonnet and tailgate – can be shut securely.
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