Hybrid vehicles are the most likely cars on UK roads to pass their MOT first time, according to analysis of DVSA testing data by specialist motor trade insurance broker ChoiceQuote.
The study found that 91% of hybrid vehicles successfully passed their MOT at the first attempt, making them the strongest-performing fuel type in the UK. Battery electric vehicles followed closely behind at 89%.
Chris Galloway, Head of Trading at ChoiceQuote, said, “Our analysis shows modern electrified technology is setting the pace for vehicle health across the UK. Hybrids and EVs are passing at higher rates, which could be due to simpler mechanical setups and cleaner operating systems compared to aging petrol and diesel engines.
“For motorists and trade professionals managing fleet risk, keeping on top of basic checks remains the single biggest factor in keeping vehicles roadworthy.”
According to DVSA inspection data, nearly half of all MOT failures are down to minor, preventable issues that drivers can easily spot.
Five quick pre-MOT checks to avoid a potential fail
- Lighting and signalling: Lighting issues account for a quarter [2] of MOT failures, making this the most common cause for test failures. Walk around the car to test headlights, indicators, and reverse lights, and reverse towards a wall or garage door to check brake lights and number plate illumination.
- The 20p tyre check: The UK legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm [3] across the central three-quarters of the tyre. Insert a 20p coin into the main grooves: if the outer band of the coin remains visible, the tread is illegal and will result in an immediate fail. Also inspect sidewalls for bulges, cuts, or uneven wear.
- Clear view of the road: Wiper blades that smear, judder, or split will fail the test. Additionally, check the windscreen for chips: damage larger than 10mm directly in front of the driver’s view, or larger than 40mm across the rest of the swept area, is a major defect [4].
- Top up the screen wash: MOT testers must be able to verify that the windscreen washers operate correctly and clear the windscreen effectively. Ensure the washer reservoir is topped up before the test, as an empty bottle may result in a failure [4].
- Emissions and warning lights: Ensure all dashboard warning lights illuminate with the ignition and turn off once the engine runs. For petrol and diesel cars, taking the vehicle on a 20-minute drive prior to the test can help to raise the engine and catalytic converter to full operating temperature, which may support compliance with emissions requirements.
