Drivers could see MOT 'refused' before mechanic even starts the test

One area of your car could cause you big problems on test day, even though it's not on the test list.

Getting your car through its MOT can be a worrying time. From faulty tail lights to balding tyres, there are a lot of areas that need to be in good condition to pass.

An MOT test is an annual inspection that ensures a vehicle meets road safety and environmental standards. A legal requirement for cars that are at least three years old, a certified testing centre will inspect brakes, lights, mirrors, seatbelts, windscreen wipers, the fuel system and exhaust.

While not taking care of any of these could result in a fail, one expert has revealed that there is another area of your car that could also give you problems on testing day.

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While a dirty car is not a consideration on the test centre list, the overall condition of your car could see a mechanic refuse to even undertake the test.

According to expert Jessica Potts, CMO at BookMyGarage, "Excessive grime and debris could hinder the tester's ability to perform the inspection and therefore they could refuse to carry it out."

A dirty car can make it hard to identify using the number plate or VIN and a filthy windscreen would make it almost impossible to see any cracks. A build-up of grime could even be a safety hazard which could lead to a failure.

For example, dirt on the windscreen can be a hazard if there's no screen wash in the reservoir.

Jessica also reiterates that your car shouldn't reach that condition, saying: "Keeping it clean is part of ensuring it is safe to drive. Failing to do so could mean you end up with an on-the-spot fine."

According to the Highway Code, a driver must have a clear view of the road at all times. That means your windscreen, mirrors, and lights need to be free of any obstructions, including dirt. If your windscreen is so grimy that it hampers your view, this specific penalty is classed as failure to have a full view of the road and traffic ahead and could land you a fine of £1,000.

The experts at BookMyGarage have also highlighted that not regularly cleaning your car could come at a cost. They say "Regular cleaning should be considered an important part of maintenance, as you would topping up air in your tyres, engine oil or water.

The car repair experts consider dirt to be like sandpaper - when it's left to build up, it can start to erode the surfaces it covers."

According to the experts, poor housekeeping in your car could be a costly mistake.

Paint and clear coat

Experts believe that dirt on the outside of your car can "cause micro-scratches when the dirt moves against your car causing damage and degrading the clear coat, these light scratches can cost £90 to repair. If dirt is mixed with rain this can create acidic compounds from the atmospheric pollutants in the rain, which can erode your paint and damage the metal underneath costing around £300 to fix."

Contaminants

They say "Things like bird droppings, tree sap, and road grime can be corrosive. If you don’t clean away these contaminants quickly, they can eat away at the protective coatings and paint, leading to permanent damage, and a £150 dent in your wallet to repair it."

Car interiors

Materials that are often used inside your car such as leather, vinyl, and plastics, can fade, crack, or stain due to accumulated dirt and exposure to sunlight. The experts say "once these wear you could be looking at anywhere from £90 to repair a patch, or £325 to reupholster an entire car seat. Regular cleaning helps maintain the durability and appearance of these materials."

Pest infestations

Food spills, crumbs, and built-up dirt can not only lead to unpleasant smells, but it can attract pests too. The yucky truth is that the most common bugs that infest cars are ants, bed bugs, carpet beetles, fleas, and spiders.

"Carpet beetles will feast on the food crumbs left around in your car, and on the carpets, leather, cushion feathers, and any natural textures in your car causing damage to it. If these carpet beetles get into your leather car seats, you could be looking at a hefty £1,250 to reupholster the leather."