What Are Different Defects That Can Cause Mot Failure?

MOT test rules and regulations have changed plenty of times. But in 2018, the government made a major change, which was the classification of issues with a vehicle. After the changes made in 2018, there were three classes for MOT issues introduced for Class 3,4,5, and 7 vehicles. Before 2018, the classification was simple pass and fail, but it was changed to minor, major, and dangerous issues. But still, many don’t understand the purpose of these defects, and what the difference is between each of these. This blog will provide an answer to this question. So, let’s start and be an informed vehicle owner. 

Minor MOT Faults 

Driving a vehicle means that there will certainly be strain on its components. Long-term straining can lead to the components wearing down, and lead to minor issues. These minor issues are called minor MOT in Watford faults. The problems in this category are not considered a safety risk but should be fixed soon after identification. Something like this was in the previous MOT system. Before, the tester used to give a list of components that may cause MOT failure in future if not repaired on time. A vehicle will not fail the test if it has minor faults, as these will not make the vehicle unsafe.  

For example, vehicles that were manufactured after 1971 have 2 brake lights installed. But there are still vehicles that have three of these stoplights. If a single light is not working out of three, then it will be counted as a minor defect, and a passing MOT certificate will be provided. 

Major MOT Faults 

The next ones are major defects, which can lead to vehicle failure. If a major fault is detected during the test, it means that the vehicle is a risk to drivers and other road users. This also makes the vehicle unsafe for the environment. For example, by using the same example as above, if out of those three lights, two of the lights stop working, it will be counted as a major fault, and the vehicle will directly fail the test. Many also have this query about whether a vehicle with major faults is driven.

According to the rules, a vehicle with major faults can only be driven to or from a garage to get repairs done, or for its retest. In no other scenario can car owners drive the vehicle. If caught doing so, drivers can be fined and points can be deducted from their license.  

Dangerous MOT Faults 

The last one is the dangerous MOT faults. These, as the name of the classification suggests, make the vehicle completely unsafe for driving and for the environment. If dangerous issues are identified during the test, the vehicle is not allowed to be driven anywhere. Vehicle owners can only do so when these issues are fixed. For example, if a vehicle's brake light is not missing, not working properly, or is broken, then the vehicle will fail the test and receive a dangerous fault list. The reason for that is, if there is an issue like the brake light not working, then other road users will not be able to know when the vehicle will stop.  

Importance of MOT 

MOT is not a causal thing which can be ignored. It is a legal requirement that will keep the driver, passengers, and other road users safe. Hence, all vehicles in the United Kingdom that are over three years old must get an MOT done and pass the test to be legally driven. It's the key to ensuring that the vehicle is environmentally friendly and safe for driving. Yes, there are some exceptions to the test, like those vehicles that are not required to take the test, which have not been completed three years from their registration date.  

Not having a valid MOT and still driving that vehicle is an illegal task for which legal action can be taken against the vehicle owner. Therefore, if drivers want to avoid paying fines, don't want to get points deducted from their license, or don’t want insurance to be invalidated, passing the test is mandatory.

By getting MOTs done on time, drivers can also identify issues with a vehicle on time and get them repaired before turning into major issues. More vehicle owners are getting motivated to get regular car service done because of the MOT. A service will prepare the vehicle for the test and prevent it from failing. 

Conclusion 

With constant changes in the automobile industry, the UK government has also changed its rules continuously. The addition of various MOT fault classes has made the test a much better way to ensure vehicles' safety and how environmentally friendly they are. Drivers must understand what each of the three fault classes represents, to know if the vehicle is road legal or not, and what they need to do to make it safe. So, the next time you get a list of advisories, don't panic, follow this guide, and you will know if the issue with it is a minor, major, or a dangerous one.