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Showing posts with the label MOT

Did you know these things could make your car fail its MOT?

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When we book our car in for an MOT, we know there are certain things that can make it fail. We know that if the headlights don’t work that they’ll need fixing, or if our tyres are worn out they’ll need replacing. However, there are some other ways you can fail that you might not have considered. Air fresheners There’s nothing better than a new car smell, but it doesn’t last forever. Once it’s worn away you may enlist an air freshener to keep the car smelling like it did on day one. However, anything hanging from your rear-view mirror that could obstruct your view will make you fail your MOT. Try not to hang anything off your mirror – there are plenty of air fresheners you can get that clip into the vents. If you can only get ones that hang, make sure they’re small and discreet. A messy car In order for a garage to carry out an MOT, they are going to need access to the car. If it’s filled with junk and mess, it will make it difficult for the garage to carry out the che...

How to avoid getting caught out on the roads in 2019

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There are a few new laws coming into effect this year, so don’t let yourself get caught out. Whether you’re a learner driver, recently qualified or have years of experience on the roads, there are new laws coming in that will affect you. We’ve compiled a list of what’s changing so you won’t be facing any fines or points in 2019. Changes in your MOT Alongside new categories for your car to fall in, an MOT will now include a handful of new legal requirements. These will include the inflation of your tyres, brake fluid, reverse lights and daytime lights for cars made after March 2018. Make sure you keep this in mind before your next MOT so that you have the best chance of passing. The new categories let you know the condition of your car. If you fall into advisory or minor, you’ve passed and are legal to drive but be aware that your car might need some repairs. Falling into major or dangerous means you’ve failed, as your car is a risk to the road. Keep clear of cycli...

The cost and stress of passing the MOT test

It’s nearing that time of year again, my car is due for its MOT and I am beginning to feel a bit of anxiety about whether or not she, (yes, my car is definitely a she) my best mate on 4 wheels, will pass with flying colours. I do believe I have prepped her with all she needs to pass the examination, but still worry that it may not have been enough. Have I failed her by not buying her the most expensive shoes (tyres) or maybe the last mechanic wasn’t just trying to make me spend more money than I needed to at her last servicing and I should have gone for their top of the line air filter and super deluxe spark plugs. Oh dear, is it too late? In 1960 the MOT was introduced by the then Ministry of Transport to check that vehicles were safe and roadworthy and although we know its benefits, why does it still cause motorists who own vehicles over 3 years old with such stress?  A Halfords Autocentres study* has uncovered the reasons why they think more than 1 million vehicles won’t pass their...