Top 10 simple pre-MoT checks

Carrying out regular checks and basic driveway DIY could prevent 1.5 million MoT failures every year, according to new research.

Leading used vehicle warranty provider, Warranty Direct, claims that simple maintenance and replacing some accessible car parts at home could slash the number of MoT failures recorded in the UK each year.

With a current national MoT failure rate of 39.52% and a government set maximum MoT price of £54.85 there has never been a better time to undertake some driveway DIY.

Increasingly complex cars put many motorists off maintaining their own cars, but the list of simple jobs that can mean the difference between passing and failing an MoT includes changing light bulbs, replacing windscreen washer fluid and checking parts like wipers and tyres.

An empty screen wash container can also cause an MoT fail, as can blown headlights, sidelights, rear lights, hazard lights and indicators, all of which could mean forking out for a re-test.

Top 10 simple pre-MoT checks

1. Headlights and indicators
2. Brake lights
3. Number plate
4. Wheels and tyres
5. Seats and seatbelts
6. Windscreen
7. Windscreen wipers
8. Screenwash
9. Horn
10. Fuel and engine oil

These checks are simple, and very easy to do at home. For the messier jobs, i.e checking your oil, you could always pick up some gloves which are used by mechanics, to protect yourself.