An experienced mechanic has issued a stark warning to drivers about seemingly harmless items that could cause their car to fail its annual MOT test. Martin Delahunty, a regional network manager and seasoned technician at Kwik Fit, highlights that failures are not always due to mechanical faults but can result from everyday objects placed incorrectly inside the vehicle.
The Hidden Danger of Windscreen Stickers
Martin emphasizes that drivers should be particularly cautious about stickers and where they position them on the windscreen. He explains that windscreen wipers operate through a designated "swept area," which is the section cleaned by the wipers. If any item, such as a festival car park sticker, is placed within this area, it can be deemed an MOT failure.
He stated, "When they go to big shows and get massive stickers for the car park, they might put it right in the middle of the passenger's side window. When the wiper moves over it, that's a problem. Anything in that swept area can lead to a failure on an MOT."
Other Common Obstructions
It's not just stickers that pose a risk. Martin adds that various items commonly found in cars can also cause MOT failures. These include rosary beads hanging from the rearview mirror, dash cams, or sat navs positioned in the middle of the windscreen. All of these can obstruct the driver's view and result in a test failure.
MOT testers have the authority to remove such items if they obstruct the view, but they must inform the driver beforehand. However, Martin notes that testers may be reluctant to remove sat navs or dash cams if there's a risk of damaging the item or the windscreen. He advises drivers to avoid placing these devices in the swept area to prevent issues.
Broader MOT Failure Trends
Martin is not alone in highlighting unusual MOT failures. Andrew Jervis, CEO of motoring experts at ClickMechanic, points out that many failures stem from basic, overlooked issues. According to DVSA data, lighting and electrical faults are the leading cause of initial MOT failures, accounting for approximately 11% of cases.
Andrew explains, "The most common MOT failures remain surprisingly basic. Often, it's something as simple as a blown bulb or misaligned headlamp. Many drivers rely entirely on dashboard warnings, but not all cars are equipped to alert them when a bulb fails."
Rising Suspension Problems
In addition to lighting issues, Andrew comments that car suspension failures are on the rise. He attributes this trend to several factors, including the increasing popularity of heavier vehicles like SUVs and worsening road conditions due to potholes.
He elaborated, "While heavier vehicles and the rise of SUVs play a role, worsening road conditions and pothole damage are major contributing factors. Local authority repair budgets have been under sustained pressure, and drivers are paying the price through repeated suspension damage."
This insight underscores the importance of regular vehicle maintenance and awareness of both mechanical and non-mechanical factors that can impact MOT outcomes. Drivers are encouraged to keep their windscreens clear and address minor issues proactively to avoid costly failures.
