How do I prepare for an MOT?

While it may seem like an annoying piece of bureaucracy, the test is important to ensure the safety of all cars on the road.

You may not be able to check your car for every potential problem before it enters its MOT, but there are a few things you can do to spot problems and get them fixed before the test, preventing your car being off the road for any longer than the time taken for the test itself - usually around 45 minutes.

Firstly, make sure your car is reasonably clean. A tester can refuse to examine a car if it is really filthy, particularly underneath. Also, make sure the boot is uncluttered and does not hinder the tester in any way.

Brakes are an important component of the MOT. Check that the handbrake works properly. If you have to pull the lever up too far, through lots of clicking, then the cable probably needs adjusting. Also, check that the handbrake can't be released by simply tapping on the lever.

Press the brake pedal and check that it doesn't feel spongy. If it does, there may be air in the hydraulic system, which must be removed.

Check that the steering wheel is not loose on the column, and that there are no abnormal movements when you turn it. If there are, there could be wear in the column support bearings or steering joints.

Another thing to do is to 'bounce' each corner of your car. If it doesn't settle after one or two bounces, then the shock absorbers may need changing.

There should be no cracks or large chips in the windscreen - although some small stone chips are allowed. All your mirrors must be securely fixed, and the glass must be in good condition.

Switch on the ignition and check that the horn works. Check the windscreen washers and wipers, and check the wiper blades. Renew damaged or split blades, and top up the screenwash.

Also check that all the lights work, including the indicator, brake and number plate lights.

Have a look at the seat belts. Do they work properly? Are any of the belts frayed or cut?

Worn tyres are a common reason for failing an MOT. Check each tyre for any damage, bulges, or objects stuck in the treads or sidewalls. If the tread on a tyre has worn more on one side than the other, it may be a sign that the wheels are misaligned.

Tyres must have at least 1.6mm depth of tread. This is the legal minimum, but it's best to change your tyres well before they become this worn. Use a tread depth gauge to check the amount of tread remaining.

Finally, get someone to hold a cloth over the end of the exhaust while you start the engine. If there are no leaks in the exhaust system, the engine should stall after a few seconds. If the engine doesn't stall this indicates a leak which will need to be repaired.

Passing the MOT reassures you that your vehicle is safe to drive. So when the time comes to make that annual trip to the test centre, don't be annoyed, be prepared.

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