Motorists across Britain are being urged to perform a crucial 50p check that could be the difference between passing an MOT and facing staggering repair bills. This simple DIY test takes seconds but reveals vital information about your vehicle's health.
According to leading motoring experts, one of the most common reasons for MOT failures is completely preventable with this elementary check. The 50p coin test focuses on your vehicle's tyre tread depth, which is both a legal requirement and critical for safety.
The Simple 50p Test That Could Save You Thousands
Here's how it works: take a 50p coin and insert it into the main tread grooves of your tyre. If the outer band of the coin is visible, your tyres may be below the legal limit and require immediate replacement. The legal minimum tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre breadth and around the entire circumference.
Failing to maintain proper tread depth doesn't just risk an MOT failure—it dramatically increases stopping distances, particularly in wet conditions, putting you and other road users at risk.
Beyond the 50p: Other Essential Pre-MOT Checks
While the 50p test addresses tyres, experts recommend several other quick checks before your MOT:
- Light Check: Ensure all lights, indicators, and brake lights are functioning properly
- Screen Wash: Top up screen wash and check wiper blades for wear
- Warning Lights: Address any dashboard warning lights before the test
- Number Plates: Ensure they're clean, legible, and properly fixed
Regular maintenance not only helps your vehicle pass its MOT but also identifies potential issues before they become major—and expensive—problems.
Why This Simple Check Matters More Than Ever
With the cost of living crisis affecting household budgets, avoiding unexpected garage bills has never been more important. A failed MOT can lead to repair costs running into hundreds or even thousands of pounds—all potentially avoidable with regular basic checks.
Motoring organisations emphasise that while the 50p test is invaluable for tyre checks, professional inspections remain essential for comprehensive vehicle safety.
