The Role of Brake, Tyre, and Suspension Checks in an MOT Test
The Role of Brake, Tyre, and Suspension Checks in an MOT Test
When it comes to passing an MOT test, your vehicle must meet strict safety and environmental standards. While emissions, lights, and visibility are key parts of the test, three critical areas that can lead to a failure are brakes, tyres, and suspension. These components are directly responsible for your car’s handling, stability, and stopping power, making them essential for road safety.
At Andrews Car Centre in Lincoln, we ensure your vehicle is thoroughly checked so you can pass your MOT with confidence. In this article, we’ll break down how brakes, tyres, and suspension are inspected during an MOT, common reasons for failure, and how you can prevent issues before your test.
1. Brake Checks in an MOT Test
Your brakes are one of the most important safety features of your car. During an MOT, the tester will assess:
What’s Checked?
- Brake Performance: The efficiency of the brakes is tested using a roller brake tester or, for some vehicles, a road test.
- Brake Pedal Feel: The tester will check for excessive pedal travel or a "spongy" feeling, which could indicate air in the brake system or worn components.
- Brake Fluid Condition: Contaminated or low brake fluid can reduce braking effectiveness.
- Handbrake (Parking Brake) Operation: The handbrake must hold the car securely on a gradient.
- Brake Discs, Pads, and Shoes: Excessive wear, cracks, or corrosion can cause an MOT failure.
Common MOT Failures for Brakes
🚫 Brake imbalance – If braking force is uneven between the wheels, the vehicle may pull to one side.
🚫 Worn brake pads or discs – If pads are below the minimum thickness, they need replacing.
🚫 Brake fluid leaks – Leaking brake fluid reduces pressure and braking efficiency.
🚫 Faulty ABS warning light – If the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) light is on, it’s an automatic fail.
How to Avoid Brake-Related MOT Failures
✔️ Get your brakes checked at least every 6 months.
✔️ Listen for squeaking or grinding sounds when braking—these indicate worn pads or discs.
✔️ Ensure your handbrake holds the car securely when parked.
✔️ Have your brake fluid changed every 2 years to maintain performance.
2. Tyre Checks in an MOT Test
Your tyres are your only contact with the road, so their condition is crucial. Faulty tyres can lead to reduced grip, increased stopping distances, and a higher risk of accidents.
What’s Checked?
- Tread Depth: The legal minimum tread depth in the UK is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre. Anything below this is an instant fail.
- Tyre Condition: The tester will check for cuts, bulges, or cracks that could compromise safety.
- Tyre Pressure: Incorrect tyre pressure can affect handling and braking.
- Tyre Type & Fitment: All tyres must be the correct type for the vehicle and have the right load and speed rating.
Common MOT Failures for Tyres
🚫 Low tread depth – Anything below 1.6mm is illegal and unsafe.
🚫 Bulges or cracks – These can be caused by impact damage or ageing rubber.
🚫 Mismatched tyres – If different types of tyres are fitted on the same axle, it can lead to an MOT fail.
🚫 Underinflated tyres – Incorrect tyre pressure affects braking and stability.
How to Avoid Tyre-Related MOT Failures
✔️ Check tread depth regularly using a 20p coin test—if you can see the outer band of the coin, the tread is too low.
✔️ Keep tyres inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI.
✔️ Inspect for bulges, cracks, or punctures and replace damaged tyres immediately.
✔️ Rotate tyres every 5,000-7,000 miles to ensure even wear.
3. Suspension Checks in an MOT Test
Your car’s suspension system keeps it stable, absorbs road bumps, and ensures proper handling. Faulty suspension can make driving uncomfortable and unsafe, affecting braking distances and cornering stability.
What’s Checked?
- Shock Absorbers & Dampers: These must be free from leaks and work efficiently to absorb road shocks.
- Suspension Springs: Broken or corroded coil springs will result in an MOT fail.
- Ball Joints & Bushings: These must be secure and free from excessive wear.
- Vehicle Ride Height & Stability: If one side of the car sits lower than the other, it may indicate a suspension fault.
Common MOT Failures for Suspension
🚫 Leaking shock absorbers – If fluid is leaking, the shocks won’t function properly.
🚫 Broken coil springs – A snapped or severely corroded spring is a common MOT failure.
🚫 Excessive play in suspension joints – Worn ball joints, bushes, or mountings can cause instability.
🚫 Knocking noises when driving – This could indicate worn suspension components.
How to Avoid Suspension-Related MOT Failures
✔️ Listen for clunking or knocking noises over bumps—this could signal worn suspension components.
✔️ Get your suspension checked if your car pulls to one side when driving.
✔️ If your car feels overly bouncy, your shocks or struts may be worn.
✔️ Inspect for any visible rust or cracks on suspension springs and components.
How Andrews Car Centre Can Help You Pass Your MOT
At Andrews Car Centre in Lincoln, we provide comprehensive MOT testing, pre-MOT inspections, and expert repairs to keep your vehicle safe and compliant with UK regulations.
Why Choose Us?
✅ MOT Specialists: Our trained technicians perform thorough checks to ensure your car meets all legal requirements.
✅ Pre-MOT Inspections: We can inspect your car in advance and fix any potential failures before your test.
✅ High-Quality Repairs: If your car fails its MOT, we offer professional brake, tyre, and suspension repairs to get you back on the road quickly.
✅ Transparent Pricing: Honest quotes with no hidden costs.
✅ Fast Service: Book your MOT at a time that suits you, with flexible appointment options.
Book Your MOT Test or Pre-Check Today
If your MOT is due soon, or if you're concerned about your brakes, tyres, or suspension, book an appointment at Andrews Car Centre in Lincoln today.
📞 Call us now or visit our website to schedule your MOT test. Drive with confidence knowing your vehicle is safe, legal, and performing at its best!