Guide
Preparing Your Car for an MOT
Some MOT fails are avoidable with a five-minute check on the driveway. Here is what Stonehouse and Stroud drivers can do before visiting our DVSA approved centre on Bath Road — plus what only a proper test can catch. Preparation does not guarantee a pass, but it cuts out frustrating simple fails.
Lights and number plates
Switch on headlights, sidelights, fog lights if fitted, brake lights (use a wall or ask someone to watch), indicators and hazard lights. Replace blown bulbs before the test. Clean number plates so letters are readable — mud from GL10 lanes is a classic avoidable fail. Also check that the registration matches the vehicle and that plates are not cracked or illegally spaced.
Tyres, pressures and tread
Legal minimum tread is 1.6 mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre, but many advisers prefer more for wet Stroud roads. Check for bulges, cords or damage on the sidewalls, and set pressures to the placard when cold. Do not forget the spare or space-saver if your car relies on one for certain checks. Uneven wear can also hint at alignment or suspension issues worth mentioning when you book.
Wipers, washers and view of the road
Wipers should clear the screen without streaking; replace perished blades. Top up washer fluid and confirm jets hit the glass. Remove sat-nav mounts, parking permits and clutter that obscure the driver’s view. Cracks in the windscreen in the driver’s field of vision can fail an MOT — if you already know of damage, tell us before the test so expectations are clear.
Seatbelts, horn and fluid levels
Pull each seatbelt fully and check it retracts cleanly without cuts or fraying. Tap the horn. Check engine oil, coolant and brake fluid are between the marks — low levels can point to leaks that matter for safety even if they are not the only MOT items. A tidy boot helps if the tester needs access to the spare or battery on some models.
Warning lights and recent work
If the engine management, ABS or airbag light is on, expect that system to be scrutinised — better to book diagnostics first if you can. Bring notes of recent brake, tyre or exhaust work so we know what has already been addressed. Stonehouse customers who mention advisories from last year help us focus on whether those items were fixed.
What preparation cannot fix
Corrosion on structural areas, worn suspension bushes, brake imbalance and emissions faults need workshop inspection and equipment. That is why a DVSA approved MOT exists. Use preparation to remove silly fails, then trust the test for the rest. If you want a pre-MOT inspection or combined service, ask when you book at Bath Road Garage.
Booking and drop-off tips
Book online for a slot that suits work or school runs, or contact us if you need the car the same day after a service. Arrive with enough fuel for the emissions check and allow time for paperwork. After the test we explain passes, fails and advisories without jargon — then you can authorise repairs or plan them for another date.