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As well as electronic parking brake and electronic stability control warning lights (where fitted) the MOT test will also include checks for the correct function of the following, where fitted;
Headlight main beam warning light
Electronic power steering warning light
Brake fluid level warning light
Tyre pressure monitoring system warning light
Airbag warning light
Seat belt pre-tensioner warning light
Steering & suspension
The new test includes a check on the presence and correct function of the steering lock where fitted as standard.
Missing, or split/damaged dust covers on steering and suspension ball-joints will result in failure if they will allow dirt to enter the joint.
Power steering fluid level must be above the minimum level indicated on the reservoir.
Lighting
Products on the lens or light source that obviously reduce the light's intensity or change its colour will become a reason for failure – applies to front/rear position lamps, registration plate lamps, stop lamps, rear fog and direction indicators,
Headlight requirements are updated to take account of the particular characteristics of High Intensity Discharge (HID) lamps.
HID headlights can cause dazzle if they are dirty or aimed too high so car manufacturers must fit headlamp cleaning and levelling systems. A car will fail if a mandatory headlamp cleaning or levelling system is missing, doesn't work or is obviously defective.
Vehicles fitted with aftermarket HID systems must also be fitted with properly working washer and levelling systems.
If a headlamp bulb is not seated correctly the resulting beam pattern will be indistinct and this will result in a test fail.
Electrical wiring and battery
An insecure battery will be a reason for failure as will a battery that is leaking electrolyte.
Visible wiring that is insecure, inadequately supported or likely to cause a short will also result in a failure as will wires bared by damaged insulation.
Trailer/caravan electrical socket
There will be a basic security/damage check of 7-pin sockets,
13-pin sockets will be subject to a full electrical connectivity check and incorrectly connected or inoperative circuits will result in failure.
