PARENTS heading for an MOT should remove these three items from their cars – or risk failing it entirely.
They may not realise that these common items could cause an issue when undergoing the test.
An MOT is an annual inspection for vehicles that all road users must undergo, and ensures cars meet all the necessary road safety and environmental standards required.
A number of different causes can result in a fail, but for parents, advice has been offered surrounding three specific items that, if left in the car, could mean they don’t pass the test.
Tyre retailer, Blackcircles, told the Gazette & Herald there are certain items parents may not be aware of when heading for an MOT test.
Toys on the dashboard, packed boots and incorrectly placed stickers could all lead to a failure, and drivers are advised to take them out of the vehicle ahead of their test.
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While small teddies and toys may be a good way of entertaining young kids on a long drive, they could lead to the failure of an MOT test if they block the driver’s view of the road.
According to Blackcircles, “they also pose a major hazard if they interfere with the deployment of your passenger airbags.”
An overloaded boot, packed to the brim with shopping bags, prams or any number of items can also lead to a fail, especially if too many items stop the boot closing seamlessly.
It can also cause a failure if certain items can’t be spotted.
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“If your boot is full and the tester cannot access the spare wheel well or suspension mounts, they will fail the vehicle,” said the Blackcircles spokesperson.
While many parents with young kids will adorn their vehicles with baby on board stickers, placing them in the wrong spot can also mean a fail when it comes to an MOT.
Stickers placed on either the front window or the front side windows can block a driver’s view, Blackcircles warned, which would then result in a failure.
“Instead, make sure this sticker is on the rear window, and ensure it’s not in the way of the wipers,” advised Blackcircles.
Parents should also be wary of any child seats in a car when having an MOT, as a loosely fitted seat may imply that the system doesn’t work correctly, and ensure that seatbelts are found in front of any permanent child seats because if they can’t be tested, it will once again lead to a fail.