Many people neglect to check their cars on a regular basis because everyone thinks that’s what their yearly MOT is for however they are all so wrong! It has been said that if people did pre-MOT checks every other month it would prevent over 1.5 million MOT failures in the UK each year! Knowing of these problems in advance will allow you the time to have the issues resolved prior to the test being carried out. This can add up to a saving in terms of time and also money.
Any car that is over 3 years old is legally required to have an MOT test to ensure maximum road safety for all cars within the UK. However this test is also a great opportunity for car owners to learn the well-being of their pride and joy.
The current national MOT failure rate of 39.52% and a government set maximum MOT price of £54.85. As many people’s cars fail their MOT test due to minor issues there has never been a better time to undertake some driveway DIY and save those pounds! For all you out there who are scared at the site of oil and grease, do not worry because by driveway DIY we mean simple things such as checking your water, oil, tire pressure and windscreen wipers etc.
With all these new complex technologies put into cars these days many motorists are put off maintaining their own cars but the list of simple jobs that car owners could do to be the difference between passing and failing their MOT test is so quick and easy that you will run and do it now!
1. Testing both your foot, handbrake and steel wheel for correct operation is something you do more or less every time you use your car!
2. Checking the windscreen for cracks and damage and the cars water and oil levels
3. Check that the seat belts are in good working condition
4. Checking that the horn is working properly
5. Ensure that the windscreen wipers and washers are all working
6. Check that the wiper blades are in good condition
7. Check that all of the lights are working and get someone to help you check your brake lights
8. Big one now! Wheels should not be damaged and tyres must be free of cuts, tears, lumps or bulges. Check the tyre pressures and the tread depth – a minimum of 1.6mm over at least three-quarters of the tread width is the current legal requirement
9. Look for any rusting and serious corrosion of the structure of the car
10. Bounce each corner of your car to assess the condition of the shock absorbers. If the car wobbles like a jelly then you have a serious problem on your hands!
Are you a used car dealer looking to improve your website and increase sales? Then check out eDealer, an innovative dealership management software to help you manage and advertise your stock