The top 7 DIY fixes you can do before your MOT.

For many UK motorists, the annual MOT test brings a mix of nerves and last-minute panic. Will your car pass? Will you need expensive repairs? The truth is, many MOT failures come down to simple issues, things that you, as a car owner, could have fixed at home in less than 30 minutes.

Before rushing to book car repairs or an MOT test, take a few moments to carry out these simple DIY fixes. They could save you both time and money, and give your vehicle the best chance of passing first time.

1. Check and replace your wiper blades

You might not notice worn-out wipers until rain starts to fall, but your MOT tester will. If your wipers leave streaks or fail to clear the screen properly, your car could fail.


Lift your wipers and inspect the rubber. If it is cracked, split, or rigid, it is time for a replacement. You can buy new blades at most car accessory shops, and fitting them takes only minutes. Remember, clear vision is a legal requirement, so do not ignore it.

2. Test all your exterior lights

It might surprise you to know that faulty lights are one of the top reasons UK cars fail MOT tests. You can check them easily on your own, or ask a friend or neighbour to help.

Turn on each set of lights, headlights, brake lights, indicators, number plate lights, and fog lamps. Walk around the vehicle and make sure every bulb is working and shining brightly. Replacing a blown bulb costs very little and often doesn’t need tools.

3. Top up your screen wash

It sounds too simple to cause an MOT fail, but it happens more than you’d think. If your screen wash bottle is empty, your car won’t pass.

Open the bonnet, find the screen wash reservoir (usually marked with a windscreen symbol), and pour in ready-mixed screen wash or a mix of water and cleaning fluid. A full bottle ensures your windscreen can be cleaned while driving, another legal must.

4. Check tyre pressure and tread depth

Your tyres are your only contact with the road, so they must meet safety standards. Use a tyre pressure gauge or visit a local petrol station to check inflation.

Then, check your tyre tread. UK law requires a minimum depth of 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre. Use a 20p coin, if the outer rim of the coin is visible when inserted into the tread, the tyre may be too worn.

5. Clear obstructions and tidy the interior

This may seem unrelated to your MOT, but UK car owners should know that excessive clutter or obstructions can lead to failure. Make sure your dashboard warning lights are visible. Remove air fresheners, stickers, or phone holders from your windscreen if they block the driver’s view.

Ensure the seatbelts click in securely and retract properly.

6. Inspect mirrors and windscreen for damage

Your car must have a secure rear-view mirror and working side mirrors. Cracks, damage, or missing glass will result in an MOT fail.

Likewise, chips or cracks in the windscreen, especially within the driver’s view, can cause failure. Small chips might be repairable if caught early. Consider using a windscreen repair kit or visiting a mobile service before test day.

7. Look under the bonnet for obvious issues

You do not have to be a mechanic to do a basic under-bonnet check. Look for:

  • Leaks: Puddles of oil, coolant, or brake fluid can indicate a problem.
  • Loose wires or hoses: Secure anything dangling or out of place.
  • Fluid levels: Top up engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid if they’re low.

This simple check helps spot bigger issues early, giving you time to arrange car repairs before your MOT.

Why these fixes matter

These seven checks take less than an hour in total, cost very little, and significantly reduce the risk of MOT failure. For UK motorists, this is a smart way to take control of your vehicle’s health and reduce repair bills.

Think of it as a car’s “health check” before its annual exam. You wouldn’t walk into a medical appointment with obvious symptoms and no preparation, and the same logic applies here.

When DIY isn’t enough

If your car shows signs of more serious problems, like brake issues, loud exhaust noises, engine warning lights, or uneven tyre wear, it is time to book a professional car repair. Regular servicing is key to spotting those problems early.

For those on the lookout, reliable services for car repair Wrexham and MOT tests are available throughout the UK. So, no matter where you are in the UK, choosing a trustworthy garage makes all the difference.

Final thoughts: MOT success starts with you

Your MOT test Wrexham doesn’t need to be stressful. By staying alert, fixing small problems yourself, and not leaving it to the last minute, you can avoid unnecessary failure.

These simple DIY fixes not only keep your car legal, they keep it safe for you, your passengers, and others on the road. For UK car owners, that’s more than just a pass certificate. That’s peace of mind.

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