MOT Checklist: How Barnsley Drivers Can Avoid a Fail

Staying on top of a few simple checks before your MOT can save time, money, and hassle. Here’s a practical checklist for drivers in Barnsley to help you pass first time — and what to do if something needs fixing.

Useful links:

• Book MOT or service online: https://anycolourcar.com/book-mot-service-online

• Contact us: https://anycolourcar.com/contact-us

• Browse our range: https://anycolourcar.com/car-search?finance-deposit=1000&finance-term-month=48&page=1&per-page=10&price-type=Finance&sort-by=age_oldest

• Sell or part-exchange your car: https://anycolourcar.com/sell

Tyres and wheels

• Tread depth: Minimum legal tread is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters. Use a 20p coin as a quick check.

• Condition: No bulges, cuts, or exposed cords. Check all four tyres and the spare (if fitted).

• Pressure: Inflate to the recommended PSI shown on the door frame or handbook. Uneven wear may indicate alignment issues.

Lights and signals

• Check all lights: Headlights (dip and main), sidelights, indicators, brake lights, reversing light, fog lights, and number plate lights.

• Lenses: Clear, not cracked or excessively fogged. Replace blown bulbs and damaged covers.

• Warning lights: Make sure no dashboard warning lights remain on after start-up.

Brakes and handbrake

• Feel: Brakes should stop the car in a straight line without pulling or vibration.

• Handbrake: Should hold the car firmly on an incline with a sensible number of clicks.

• Brake fluid: Should be between min/max marks. If low or very dark, consider a fluid change.

Windscreen, wipers, and washers

• Windscreen: No major cracks or chips in the driver’s line of sight. Small chips should be repaired before they spread.

• Wipers: Replace if they smear or leave streaks. Both front (and rear, if fitted) must work properly.

• Washers: Top up screenwash and confirm strong spray from all nozzles.

Mirrors and visibility

• Mirrors: Secure and not cracked. Check both door mirrors and the interior mirror.

• Number plates: Clean, secure, and clearly readable. Correct spacing and font.

Seatbelts and seats

• Seatbelts: Check for fraying, proper retraction, and that they lock when tugged sharply.

• Seats: Securely mounted and adjustable; driver’s seat must lock into position.

Steering and suspension

• Steering: No excessive play; steering wheel should return to centre smoothly.

• Suspension: Listen for knocks or creaks over bumps. Uneven ride height or excessive bounce suggests worn components.

Exhaust and emissions

• Exhaust: Secure with no significant leaks. Excessive noise or fumes can indicate a problem.

• Emissions: For petrols, ensure the engine is well maintained; for diesels, avoid short trips immediately before the test and make sure the engine is fully warm. A recent motorway run can help.

Fluids and leaks

• Oil, coolant, power steering, and brake fluid: Between minimum and maximum. Top up as needed.

• Leaks: Check the ground after parking. Any significant fuel or fluid leak can cause a fail.

Doors, bonnet, and boot

• Doors: Must open from inside and outside. Child locks working if needed.

• Bonnet and boot: Latches should secure properly and release as designed.

Horn and general condition

• Horn: Must sound clearly.

• Interior: Remove excessive clutter that could obstruct pedals or seatbelts.

• General: Secure any loose trims; sharp edges can be an issue.

Simple pre-MOT fixes that help

• Replace blown bulbs, worn wipers, and low washer fluid.

• Inflate tyres to the correct pressures and replace any clearly illegal/bald tyres.

• Clear warning lights where possible (e.g., top up fluids or address known sensor issues).

• Bring your locking wheel nut, service history, and any previous MOT advisories.

Diesel and DPF tips

• If you do frequent short trips, plan a longer drive to help the DPF regenerate.

• Use the correct grade of oil and keep up with servicing to protect emissions systems.

EV and hybrid checks

• Tyres, lights, brakes, and suspension checks are the same.

• Ensure any required warning lights (e.g., ready indicator) behave normally.

• Make sure the charging port door opens and closes properly.

When to book and what to expect

• You can book an MOT up to one month (minus a day) before the expiry to keep the renewal date.

• If your car fails, you’ll receive a list of issues. We can provide a quote for repairs and a retest.

Book online in minutes

• MOT or service booking: https://anycolourcar.com/book-mot-service-online

• Questions or advice: https://anycolourcar.com/contact-us

Looking to upgrade instead of repair?

• If repairs are uneconomical, part-exchange your car and drive away in something newer or more efficient.

• Sell or part-exchange: https://anycolourcar.com/sell

• Browse cars: https://anycolourcar.com/car-search?finance-deposit=1000&finance-term-month=48&page=1&per-page=10&price-type=Finance&sort-by=age_oldest

Reminder

• Keep service intervals up to date to reduce MOT surprises.

• Address advisories soon after the test to avoid costlier repairs later.