Drivers are being warned of urgent issues with their cars that could cause them to fail their MOT test, even though it can be solved for less than £1.
March is statistically the busiest month to book an MOT test, with millions around the country scrambling to get an appointment with their local garage to ensure their car is safe.
Data suggests that MOT tests surge by a staggering 23 per cent every March, with vehicles over three years old required to get a test every year.
Despite this, almost three in 10 vehicles failed their MOT test last year, with motorists forced to pay extra for repairs and a re-test before getting back out on the road.
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Experts say common reasons for MOT test failures could be solved for less than £1
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Research from Halford's shows that nearly half of all MOT failures (45 per cent) are due to one easy fix, with motoring expert Andy Turbefield urging motorists to act.
He noted that most fixes can be performed easily before drivers take their vehicle in for a test and can sometimes cost just £1.
The most common failure includes issues with lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment, which is a notifiable problem in 44.6 per cent of all MOT failures.
Turbefield mentioned that this can be down to simple issues like having faulty bulbs, broken indicators, or non-functional brake lights, all of which can be fixed in a matter of minutes.
He said: "Bulbs are an easy fix on most cars and can cost as little as 99p. For those not confident changing them themselves, this can be done cheaply with a fitting service like Halfords offers.
"Drivers should get into the habit of checking their headlights, side lights, brake lights, indicators, hazard lights, and fog lights by walking around the car with all the lights on - this will help ensure they don’t get caught out when their car goes for an MOT.
"And don't forget number plate lights and reversing lights, which are easily overlooked but essential for passing a vehicle MOT."
Suspension issues make up the second-most common reason for an MOT failure, with 31.4 per cent of drivers having issues such as worn-out suspension dampers, damaged springs, or excessively leaking suspension components.
Motorists are encouraged to listen out for any issues when driving, including strange noises when driving over bumps. Suspension issues can also be seen if the vehicle feels unstable or is pulling to one side.
Halfords offers a free suspension check to catch problems before they arise and potentially lead to an MOT test failure, which can also help to avoid any unnecessary damage in the long run.
Almost a quarter of vehicles fail their MOT tests because of faulty brakes, which can lead to an enormous problem if drivers continue to travel with the dangerous issue.
Turbefield said this can be identified through excessively worn brake pads, worn brake discs and any brake fluid leaks. There could also be issues with the braking system's efficiency.
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Tyres are also a common reason for cars failing their MOT test
GETTYHe said: "Spot brake issues by paying attention to how brakes feel when driving. If they feel less responsive, or drivers hear grinding noises, get them checked - brake pads aren’t an expensive item.
"It's also important for drivers to ensure brake fluid is topped up and within the correct range; low levels can indicate a leak, which needs immediate attention."
