Top 5 MOT Failures in Burton-on-Trent | Pro-B Garage & Vehicle Recovery
- Wix
- Jun 8
- 6 min read
If your MOT is due soon, you may be wondering whether your vehicle is likely to pass first time.
At Pro-B, based at Unit 2, Europa Court, Burton-on-Trent, DE14 1PZ, we inspect and repair vehicles for customers throughout Burton-on-Trent and the surrounding areas. One thing we've learned over the years is that many MOT failures could have been avoided with a simple pre-test inspection.
The good news is that most common MOT failures can be identified and repaired before your test, potentially saving you time, money and inconvenience.
In this guide, we'll explain the five most common reasons cars fail their MOT in Burton-on-Trent and what you can do to improve your chances of passing first time.
Why Burton-on-Trent Drivers Choose Pro-B
Motorists across Burton-on-Trent trust Pro-B because we offer:
Honest, straightforward advice
Experienced vehicle technicians
Vehicle servicing and repairs
MOT preparation inspections
Vehicle recovery and transport services
Competitive pricing
Convenient Burton-on-Trent location
Whether you need advice about an upcoming MOT, vehicle repairs, diagnostics or vehicle recovery, our experienced team is here to help.
📞 Call us today on 01283 688016 for advice or to book an inspection.
1. Faulty Lights and Electrical Components
One of the most common MOT failures we see at our Burton-on-Trent garage involves faulty lights.
During an MOT, your tester will inspect:
Headlights
Brake lights
Indicators
Number plate lights
Rear lights
Hazard warning lights
Even something as simple as a blown bulb can result in an MOT failure.
Many drivers only discover a light has stopped working when their vehicle is already being tested.
How to Avoid This Problem
Before your MOT appointment, ask a friend or family member to help check all external lights are working correctly.
If you're unsure, our Burton-on-Trent technicians can carry out a quick inspection before your test.
Need Help?
If you suspect an electrical fault or have a warning light showing on your dashboard, contact Pro-B in Burton-on-Trent on 01283 688016 and we'll be happy to help.
2. Worn or Damaged Tyres
Tyres are one of the most important safety features on your vehicle and are another leading cause of MOT failures.
Your vehicle could fail its MOT if the tyres have:
Less than 1.6mm tread depth
Sidewall damage
Bulges
Uneven wear
Exposed cords
We regularly see vehicles arrive at our Burton-on-Trent workshop with tyres that are dangerously close to the legal limit.
How to Avoid This Problem
Check your tyre tread depth regularly and inspect for visible signs of damage.
If you're unsure whether your tyres are road legal, our team can quickly assess their condition.
Free Advice for Burton-on-Trent Drivers
Not sure whether your tyres will pass their MOT?
Give our Burton-on-Trent garage a call on 01283 688016 and we'll be happy to advise.
3. Brake Problems
Your brakes are essential for both safety and MOT compliance.
Common brake-related MOT failures include:
Worn brake pads
Worn brake discs
Brake fluid leaks
Reduced braking efficiency
Handbrake defects
At Pro-B, we frequently inspect vehicles in Burton-on-Trent where drivers have noticed symptoms for weeks but delayed getting them checked.
Warning Signs You Shouldn't Ignore
Watch out for:
Squealing or grinding noises
Vibrations when braking
A soft brake pedal
Increased stopping distances
Vehicle pulling to one side
How to Avoid This Problem
If your vehicle displays any of these symptoms, arrange an inspection before your MOT.
Addressing minor brake issues early can prevent more expensive repairs later.
4. Windscreen Damage and Visibility Issues
A surprising number of vehicles fail their MOT because of visibility-related issues.
Your vehicle may fail if it has:
Significant windscreen cracks
Large chips in the driver's field of vision
Faulty windscreen wipers
Empty washer fluid reservoirs
Damaged mirrors
For many Burton-on-Trent motorists, these are simple issues that could have been corrected before the test.
How to Avoid This Problem
Check your windscreen for damage and ensure your washer system and wipers are functioning correctly.
Replacing worn wiper blades is inexpensive and can help prevent an avoidable MOT failure.
Book a Pre-MOT Check
At Pro-B, we can identify these issues before your MOT appointment.
📞 Call 01283 688016 to arrange an inspection at our Burton-on-Trent garage.
5. Suspension and Steering Problems
Suspension and steering faults are often harder for drivers to spot but can still lead to MOT failures.
Common issues include:
Broken springs
Worn shock absorbers
Damaged steering joints
Excessive steering play
Suspension wear
These faults not only affect your MOT result but can also compromise vehicle safety.
Signs of Suspension Problems
You may notice:
Knocking noises
Excessive bouncing
Uneven tyre wear
Poor handling
Vehicle pulling to one side
If you notice any of these symptoms, it's worth having your vehicle inspected before your MOT test.
Simple Checks You Can Carry Out Before Your MOT
Before attending your MOT appointment, we recommend checking:
✓ All exterior lights
✓ Tyre tread depth and condition
✓ Windscreen washer fluid
✓ Wiper blades
✓ Mirrors
✓ Dashboard warning lights
✓ Vehicle horn
✓ Seatbelts
These simple checks can significantly improve your chances of passing first time.
Areas We Cover
Our Burton-on-Trent garage regularly assists customers from:
Burton-on-Trent
Branston
Stretton
Tutbury
Barton-under-Needwood
Swadlincote
Rolleston-on-Dove
Repton
Surrounding Staffordshire and Derbyshire areas
Whether you require MOT preparation, vehicle repairs, servicing or vehicle recovery, our team is ready to help.
Book Your Pre-MOT Inspection in Burton-on-Trent Today
If your MOT is approaching, don't leave it to chance.
At Pro-B, we help drivers throughout Burton-on-Trent identify potential MOT failures before test day, helping to reduce stress, avoid unnecessary retests and keep vehicles safe on the road.
Visit us at:
Pro-BUnit 2, Europa CourtBurton-on-TrentDE14 1PZ
📞 01283 688016
📧 Email our team today to discuss your MOT, servicing, repairs or vehicle recovery requirements.
Whether you need a simple pre-MOT inspection, vehicle repairs, diagnostics, servicing or vehicle transport, Pro-B is proud to support motorists across Burton-on-Trent and the surrounding areas.
Call 01283 688016 today and speak to a member of our team.
Frequently Asked Questions About MOT Tests in Burton-on-Trent
How can I improve my chances of passing my MOT?
The best way to improve your chances of passing your MOT is to have your vehicle inspected beforehand. Checking tyres, lights, brakes, windscreen wipers and fluid levels can help identify issues before your test date. At Pro-B in Burton-on-Trent, we offer pre-MOT inspections to help drivers avoid unnecessary failures.
Can I drive my car if it fails its MOT?
This depends on the type of failure and whether your previous MOT certificate is still valid. If your vehicle has been deemed dangerous, you should not drive it until repairs have been completed. If you're unsure, contact our Burton-on-Trent team on 01283 688016 for advice.
What is the most common MOT failure?
One of the most common MOT failures involves lights and signalling equipment. Faulty bulbs, brake lights and indicators are frequent causes of failure. Tyres and braking systems are also common issues we see at our Burton-on-Trent garage.
Should I get a pre-MOT inspection?
Yes. A pre-MOT inspection can identify potential issues before your vehicle is tested. This often saves time, money and the inconvenience of arranging a retest. Pro-B provides pre-MOT inspections for customers throughout Burton-on-Trent and surrounding areas.
How often does my vehicle need an MOT?
Most vehicles in the UK require their first MOT after three years and then annually thereafter. If you're unsure when your MOT is due, contact our Burton-on-Trent team and we'll be happy to help.
ADDITIONAL LOCAL TRUST SECTION
Your Local Garage in Burton-on-Trent
Choosing a local garage means choosing a team that understands the needs of drivers in Burton-on-Trent and the surrounding areas.
At Pro-B, we take pride in providing honest advice, quality workmanship and excellent customer service. Whether your vehicle requires MOT preparation, servicing, repairs, diagnostics or vehicle recovery, our experienced team is here to help.
Conveniently located at Unit 2, Europa Court, Burton-on-Trent, DE14 1PZ, we're easily accessible for motorists across Burton-on-Trent, Branston, Stretton, Tutbury, Barton-under-Needwood, Rolleston-on-Dove and Swadlincote.
FINAL CALL TO ACTION
Need MOT Advice? Speak to Burton-on-Trent's Local Vehicle Specialists
If you're concerned about an upcoming MOT, have noticed a warning light on your dashboard or simply want peace of mind before your test, we're here to help.
Our experienced team can carry out a pre-MOT inspection, identify any potential issues and advise on the most cost-effective solution.
📍 Pro-BUnit 2, Europa CourtBurton-on-TrentDE14 1PZ
📞 01283 688016
📧 Contact us via our website to arrange an appointment or request advice.
From MOT preparation and vehicle repairs to servicing and vehicle recovery, Pro-B is proud to support drivers throughout Burton-on-Trent and the surrounding areas.
Call today on 01283 688016 and let our team help keep your vehicle safe, reliable and roadworthy.
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