Motorists are being urged to use a clever 20p coin to check the condition of their car and stop their vehicle from failing its MOT which could be more costly.
Before going for an MOT test, motorists should check the tread of their tyres with a 20p coin and topping up all fluid levels within the vehicle.
Vehicles are required to take annual MOT test inspections to ensure they are roadworthy and meet legal safety standards.
While the initial maximum cost for a car MOT is £54.85, drivers could end up forking out for hefty repairs, retests and labour costs if the vehicle fails.
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The initial maximum cost for a car MOT is £54.85
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The costs for a single replacement tyre alone can be as high as £250, while mechanic hourly rates can reach £80.
Jake Smith, director of Absolute Reg, said: “MOTs can work out much more expensive than the initial test cost if motorists don’t prepare their vehicle beforehand.
“With the cost of living crisis and rising fuel and insurance costs, driving is expensive enough as it is, so it is important motorists know how to keep costs down in this annual test.
“Simple checks beforehand can help keep repair bills down and get vehicles through the test without hefty charges.”
When checking a vehicle before an MOT test, drivers must account for the legal tyre tread limit being 1.6mm, with motorists able to check if tyres are sufficient by putting a 20p coin into the main tread grooves.
If the outer rim of the 20p is visible when performing the test, the tyres should be replaced ahead of the MOT, making it a cheaper option.
Smith added: “Ensuring tyre tread depth is at the legal limit with the coin test and replacing flickering or blown bulbs will save a lot of time and money on test day.”
Underinflated tyres could fail an MOT, drivers are encouraged to ensure they are at the recommended pressure, which should be on a sticker on the bodywork or in the vehicle handbook.
All car lights must be working for a vehicle to pass the test, including the headlamps, registration lights, indicators, parking lights and registration plate bulbs.
If they are not up to scratch replacing bulbs before a test could help save some extra pounds for drivers.
As for fluid levels, Absolute Reg recommends drivers pop the bonnet and ensure all fluid like the brake reservoir, screen wash and oil is topped up to sufficient levels.
Seat belts will also be inspected, if found to be damaged or frayed, as part of the MOT, it will require them to be replaced as they are an important safety component.
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Drivers need to get an MOT every year
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The MOT tests some important items on a vehicle to check that they meet the legal standards. It isn’t the same as having the vehicle serviced and doesn’t check its general mechanical condition.
The test doesn’t cover the condition of the engine, clutch or gearbox.