Warning to car owners ahead of peak MOT time

DRIVERS OF cars three years old and over are being warned of potential MOT pitfalls in the month of September.

Due to the registration plate change in September and March each year these months also see a peak in the number of MOT tests, confirmed by statistics provided by the Vehicle Operator Services Agency (VOSA).

Data has also revealed that a key area for MOT failures is vehicle lighting, which can be looked at ahead of the test. Main beam and dipped headlights, side lights, fog lights and reversing lights all must operate correctly but can be checked at home by the vehicle owner.

Car owners should also be aware of new elements to the test that came into effect on the 20th March. Electronic warning lights, engine mountings and speedometer now come under more rigorous examination and while the latter two require specialist attention, any vehicle warning lights remaining illuminated after the car has started could indicate a potential problem and should be examined by a main dealer or independent garage to avoid a test fail.

By Press Association reporters