Home › Guides › MOT checklist: what to check at home
MOT checklist: what to check at home
Updated October 2026
Around a third of cars fail their MOT first time, and many failures are things you could fix yourself in minutes.
10 checks before your MOT
- Lights: headlights, brake lights, indicators, number plate light
- Wipers: clear the screen without streaks
- Screenwash: topped up
- Windscreen: no chips over 10 mm in front of the driver
- Tyres: 1.6 mm tread, no cuts or bulges
- Horn: works
- Number plates: clean and legible
- Mirrors: secure and undamaged
- Seatbelts: lock and retract
- Warning lights: none on the dashboard
Parts you'll need
Order online for delivery, or click and collect from a local GSF branch, often within the hour.
Some links on this page are affiliate links to GSF Car Parts: if you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. It never changes our advice.
Check the full MOT inspection manual on GOV.UK. If your car needs repairs before the test, use the form to get a quote from a local mechanic.
Need help?
Use the form to send a free enquiry. We'll pass it to an independent local car repair and servicing provider.