37% more cars are failing their MOT due to new rules

Stricter MOT requirements

The new MOT rules were introduced in May 2018 and called for stricter and more stringent testing, including tighter exhaust emission assessments, diesel particular filter checks and, perhaps most significantly, the introduction of a new three-tier categorisation of defects; minor, major and dangerous. A car can pass an MOT with minor defects but will fail if a major or dangerous problem is found. If the problem falls into the dangerous category, the driver must get it fixed before getting back on the road again or they could face a fine of up to £2,500.

Figures recently revealed by Green Flag show that a little over 10 million cars failed their MOT test in the period from May 2018 – May 2019, that’s an increase of 37% on the previous year. Of these fails, 9% were because of dangerous faults and 44% because of major issues. It has been suggested that the rise in MOT failures is because people are keeping their cars for longer and as vehicles age, they are more likely to develop problems which won’t pass an MOT.

Green Flag’s Commercial Director, Mark Newbery, has said, ‘drivers should be aware of the risks of driving a faulty car. It not only endangers other motorists, but drivers and their passengers alike’ and adds, ‘problems with vehicles will only worsen if not seen to, costing more money in the long run’. He goes on to advise drivers to ‘thoroughly check their cars and repair any problems immediately, to give them the best chance of passing the new MOT tests.'

How to help your car pass its MOT

• Check your car’s essential fluids including screen wash, oil and brake fluid
• Test all lights are working
• Measure the tread depth of your tyres and that they are inflated to the correct pressure
• Ensure your windscreen wipers can effectively clear your windscreen
• Your number plates are easily read and in good condition 
• Clean your car – the tester can refuse to test a car that is dirty

At Sunrise Service and MOT Centre, we offer a professional and affordable MOT testing service in Dorset for vehicles of all makes and models while you wait. To book yours, simple contact us on 01258 459 798.