Simple 20p tyre check could save motorists from costly MOT fails

Motorists facing the annual MOT test have a handy tip that could save them significant repair bills, courtesy of Absolute Reg’s motoring experts. With a mere twenty pence piece, drivers can perform a crucial tyre tread check, potentially averting costs upwards of £200 for tyre replacements and additional mechanic fees.

The MOT test, a mandatory inspection to ensure a vehicle's roadworthiness and adherence to safety standards, carries a base fee of £54.85. However, failing the test due to issues like insufficient tyre tread can lead to steep costs for repairs, retests, and labour, with a single tyre replacement alone potentially costing as much as £250.

Jake Smith, Director of Absolute Reg, emphasises the importance of vehicle owners conducting pre-MOT checks to avoid these unnecessary expenses. Smith said: "MOTs can work out much more expensive than the initial test cost if motorists don’t prepare their vehicle beforehand. 

“With the cost of living crisis and rising fuel and insurance costs, driving is expensive enough as it is, so it is important motorists know how to keep costs down in this annual test. 

“Simple checks beforehand can help keep repair bills down and get vehicles through the test without hefty charges. 

“Ensuring tyre tread depth is at the legal limit with the coin test and replacing flickering or blown bulbs will save a lot of time and money on test day.”

Absolute Reg recommends seven essential pre-MOT checks:

1. Tyre Tread Depth: Legally required to be at least 1.6mm, tyre tread can be assessed using the 20p test. If the coin’s outer rim is visible when inserted into the tread grooves, tyres need replacing before the MOT.

2. Tyre Pressure: Incorrect tyre pressure can lead to an MOT fail. Vehicle owners should ensure tyres are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended levels.

3. Lights: A vehicle must have all its lights functioning to pass the MOT. This includes headlamps, indicators, parking lights, and registration plate bulbs. Any non-working or flickering lights should be replaced or repaired prior to the test.

4. Fluid Levels: Checking and topping up brake fluid, screen wash, and oil levels is crucial to pass the inspection.

5. Seatbelts: All seatbelts will be examined for damage or wear and must function correctly to comply with safety standards.

6. Windscreen Cracks: Any damage larger than 10mm in the driver’s line of sight or 40mm elsewhere on the windscreen can result in a fail.

7. Fuel: A nearly empty fuel tank could lead to a test refusal. Ensuring a full tank before the MOT can avoid this issue.