A recent study conducted by warranty provider Warranty Direct discovered that almost 40% of cars and vans failed their MOT in 2016.
This has been consistent for decades and a recent slight dip is likely attributed to the way that the numbers are counted by DVSA and the effect of PRS Tests. Needless to say, 40% is a huge percentage and real cause for concern as these issues are costing motorists nearly £1 million each year.
Reasons for Failure
Interestingly, they found that the main reason for failure comes down to electrical issues. Specifically, lighting and signalling are the culprits by a wide margin, whilst faults such as the air bag light only make up a small percentage. Behind lighting and signalling faults, the classic problems of suspension and brakes are the main reasons for MOT failure.
Avoiding Failure
In some cases, these issues are unavoidable and simply a part of driving a car every day. Often, however, motorists could avoid the hassle and expense of failing their MOT by carrying out a little maintenance. This is particularly true for some electrical components, such as blown fuses or bulbs, which can be easy to replace.
Safety and Responsibility
Of course, it is worrying that such a large percentage of cars are failing as it means that many of these may not be safe to drive. Motorists will often put off getting an MOT as they fear what the results will be, but this is dangerous and is likely to put the motorist and other road users at risk.
Drivers are advised that it is important to comply with the law, take the necessary safety measures and always get their vehicle’s MOT carried out when it is due.
Disabled Motorists
Another reason that some motorists delay getting an MOT done is that it can put them in a difficult spot without a car if it were to fail. This is particularly true for the disabled, who often rely on an adapted or wheelchair accessible vehicle to get around. Public transportation is not an ideal solution and a regular vehicle may not be suitable as a temporary solution.
In this situation, adapted or wheelchair accessible automobiles are best hired from companies like Allied Fleet to cover the period until the vehicle is repaired and returned. This would provide disabled users with a temporary solution to what could otherwise be a difficult situation.
With such a large percentage of vehicles failing their MOT in 2016, it is essential that motorists take a look at their approach to vehicle maintenance. Delaying an MOT out of fear of the costs or because it is inconvenient is illegal, can be dangerous and may invalidate insurance.
Motorists are advised to carry out regular maintenance where possible and book the vehicle in as soon as it is due.