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An MOT is a legal requirement for every car over three years old, yet it remains one of the most misunderstood parts of driving in London.
Busy roads, short journeys, and packed diaries often mean MOTs are treated as an afterthought — until the reminder email lands or the expiry date is uncomfortably close.
In a city where driving conditions are demanding and availability is limited, small MOT mistakes can quickly turn into unnecessary stress. These are five of the most common MOT in London issues — and how to avoid them.
1. Leaving MOT Booking Too Late
MOT demand in London is consistently high, particularly in densely populated areas where appointment slots disappear quickly. Waiting until the final weeks often results in limited choice, inconvenient locations, or a rushed booking that doesn’t suit work or family commitments.
How to avoid it:
Plan the MOT well ahead of the expiry date. Booking MOT in London from DAT Tyres in advance saves time and prevents last-minute stress, making car maintenance a simpler, more reliable part of everyday life.
2. Assuming Low Mileage Means a Higher Pass Rate
London cars may cover fewer miles, but urban driving places unique strain on vehicles. Frequent braking, short journeys, uneven road surfaces, and stop-start traffic can accelerate wear on brakes, tyres, suspension, and emissions systems.
How to avoid it:
Mileage alone is not an indicator of MOT readiness. Regular checks of tyres, lights, brakes, and fluid levels are essential, particularly for vehicles mainly used on city roads.
3. Overlooking Tyres and Brakes Before the Test
Tyres and brakes are among the most common reasons for MOT failure in London. Kerb damage, uneven tread wear, and worn brake components are easily missed during everyday driving but rarely escape an MOT inspection.
How to avoid it:
Check tyre tread depth, sidewalls, and brake performance ahead of the test. London road conditions make tyre and brake wear more likely, so early attention can prevent avoidable failures.
4. Ignoring Warning Lights and Minor Faults
Warning lights are often dismissed as minor issues, particularly when the car still appears to drive normally. However, many dashboard warnings are directly linked to MOT failure points, especially those relating to emissions and engine management systems.
How to avoid it:
Any persistent warning light should be investigated before the MOT. Addressing faults early reduces the risk of a failed test and the inconvenience of additional repairs.
5. Treating the MOT as a One-Off Requirement
Seeing the MOT as a single annual hurdle often leads to repeat failures and ongoing issues. In London, where driving conditions are demanding year-round, reactive maintenance rarely pays off.
How to avoid it:
Use the MOT as part of a wider approach to vehicle care. Keeping on top of servicing, tyres, and brakes throughout the year leads to smoother MOT results and more reliable driving in city conditions.