According to DVSA data analysed by the RAC, Lights, indicators and reflectors are the most common reasons for vehicles failing MOT’s, making up over a quarter of all failures (25.5%) in the 12 months to March 2022, although the most dangerous MOT failures are most likely to come from faults with brakes and tyres. Brakes (17%) were the third most common cause, with tyres (12%) being the forth reason. Bad visibility, usually caused by cracks on window screens represented 8.7% of all MOT failures.

During this period, a third of all initial MOT tests of cars (the equivalent to 7.3m vehicles) resulted in a fail, but 8% of tests (equivalent to 2.4m vehicles) resulted in a fail where at least one dangerous defect had been identified, with brakes and tyres representing 88% of all such failures, highlighting how important it is for drivers to carry out routine checks on these items, and their vehicle in general.

MOTs are only required three years after the first registration of a vehicle, and then annually thereafter. With MOT’s costing up to £54.80 for the average vehicle, costs can soon mount up if parts and labour are needed, especially if the vehicle has not been maintained.

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.”

Has your car recently failed an MOT? Consider a hire vehicle:

Many drivers can be left without a form of transport when their vehicle fails and MOT. Just Vehicle Solutions offer a wide range of vehicles for Daily & Weekly hire, perfect to fill the gap until your vehicle is road worthy again.

Don’t want to deal with the hassle of an MOT? Consider leasing a brand new vehicle

Just Vehicle Solutions also offer 6-12 month short term lease contracts on a wide range of vehicles. Furthermore, all of our vehicles are band new, meaning they don’t need an MOT for the first 3 years, so you don’t have to worry about the inconvenience of your car being off the road due to MOT failures.