Pre-MOT Checklist: 10 Things You Can Check at Home Before Your MOT in Norwich or Diss

If your MOT is coming up, a few simple checks at home could save you time, money, and the stress of a failure.

At easypeasy, with servicing available via our Bosch Car Service centre in Norwich and our Desira service centre in Diss, we see many MOT failures that could easily have been avoided.

Here’s a practical 10-point pre-MOT checklist you can do yourself before bringing your vehicle in.

1. Check All Your Lights

This is one of the most common reasons cars fail an MOT.

Check:

  • Headlights (dip and main beam)
  • Brake lights
  • Indicators
  • Hazard lights
  • Number plate lights
  • Reverse lights
  • Fog lights

Tip: Ask someone to help you check brake lights, or reverse up to a reflective surface.

2. Inspect Your Tyres

Tyres must have:

  • Minimum tread depth of 1.6mm across the central ¾
  • No cracks, bulges, or exposed cords
  • Matching tyres on the same axle

If you're unsure, pop into easypeasy Norwich or Diss and we can advise before your test.

3. Check Windscreen & Wipers

Your windscreen must:

  • Be free from large cracks (especially in driver’s view)
  • Have no chips over 10mm in the critical area

Wipers should:

  • Clear the screen effectively
  • Not leave smears or streaks

Also make sure washer fluid is topped up.

4. Test Your Horn

It sounds simple, but a non-working horn is an instant fail.

Give it a quick press — it should be loud and clear.

5. Check Warning Lights on the Dashboard

When you turn the ignition on:

  • All warning lights should illuminate briefly
  • Then switch off once the engine starts

If your engine management light stays on, get it checked before your MOT. Our Bosch Car Service technicians in Norwich can run a diagnostic scan.

6. Number Plates

Make sure:

  • Plates are clean and easy to read
  • No cracks or fading
  • Correct font and spacing

Loose or damaged plates can cause a fail.

7. Check Mirrors

Ensure:

  • All mirrors are secure
  • No cracks or significant damage
  • Clear visibility

8. Inspect Seatbelts

Pull each seatbelt fully out and check:

  • No fraying or cuts
  • They retract properly
  • They click securely into place

9. Look for Fluid Leaks

Check under your car after it’s been parked.

Small condensation drips are normal. Oil or coolant leaks are not and should be looked at before your MOT.

10. Make Sure Your Car Is Clean & Accessible

Remove:

  • Clutter from the boot (tester may need access)
  • Child seats if possible
  • Obstructions around seatbelt mounts

A clean car helps the tester complete checks properly.

Bonus Tip: Check Your MOT Date

Driving without a valid MOT can result in:

  • A £1,000 fine
  • Invalid insurance
  • 3 penalty points

If you’re unsure, you can check your MOT status online or contact our team at Easypeasy Norwich or Diss.

If you need an MOT in Norwich or Diss, Easypeasy is here to help. We provide professional MOT testing, thorough pre-MOT inspections, expert servicing through our Bosch Car Service centre, and any repairs required to get you safely back on the road. Whether you’re based in Norwich, Diss, or the surrounding Norfolk areas, our experienced team delivers reliable, affordable vehicle care you can trust.

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