With the cost of living crisis still very much a concern for everyone, and the price of vehicle ownership also at an all-time high, news that your MOT test is due may be particularly unwelcome.

Last year, over 13,785 vehicles in the UK failed at least one MOT test with 12 or more faults. Overall, a whopping one fifth of UK vehicles faced MOT failure, costing owners time and money. But, did you know with a little well-timed vehicle maintenance, you could increase your chances of MOT success? Read on to discover how best to prepare your vehicle for its next MOT.

Keep it clean inside and out

Yes, really! A filthy vehicle may not be grounds for an MOT failure, but an examiner can actually refuse to undertake the test. Giving your vehicle a thorough clean prior to its MOT test however is the perfect opportunity to make sure its components are in good working order.

Make sure the number plates are readable by clearing any dirt or debris, examine your wipers for damage, and check your lights and horn work as they should do. Your mirrors should also be clear and free from damage.

Take a look at those tyres

The condition of your tyres and your tyre pressure are both checked during an MOT test, as well as the rims and wheel bearings, so make sure everything is up to scratch. Pay particular attention to the tread depth of your tyres.

By law, your tread depth should be at least 1.6mm - that’s about the same size as the thickness of the outer rim of a 20 pence coin. Undertaking the ‘20p test’ is a quick and easy way to guarantee your tread depth is above this legal limit. Insert the coin into the grooves of your tyre. If you can’t see the outer band, you’re good to go. Remember to check the tread at various sections of your tyre.

Don’t just check your tread depth prior to your MOT. It’s recommended you perform the 20p test once every two weeks and before any long road trips.

Top up your fluid levels

Don’t let basic car maintenance get the better of you! All those essential fluids that keep your car working correctly need to be topped up regularly, especially before an MOT test. This includes your screen wash, brake fluid and oil.