Can a car pass an MOT if dashboard warning lights are showing?
Discovering a warning light on your car’s dashboard can be alarming, especially with an upcoming MOT test. But can your vehicle still pass with that ominous light glaring at you?
Realistically, the answer is no. The warning lights on your dashboard are key indicators of how well your car is running (or not). They’re split into two categories; red lights and amber lights. As you may have guessed, red indicates a critical fault, and amber means it’s less critical, but still important to get reviewed.
Can your vehicle pass with a warning light on?
Unfortunately, the answer is no – a car cannot pass its MOT with certain warning lights on. Warning lights on your dashboard alert you to potential issues with your vehicle and are colour-coded to indicate the severity of the problem.
🚦Red warning lights
As a general rule, if anything flashes up red you need to get it checked immediately, before you clock up many more miles. Red warning lights indicate serious problems that require critical action. Examples are:
- Braking system
- Airbag
- Engine
- Electronics
Any of these illuminated on your dash will be an automatic MOT fail. They indicate serious issues that must be addressed to ensure the vehicle’s safety and compliance with road regulations. Always resolve these warnings before your MOT to avoid failing the test and wasting your test fee.
🚦Amber warning lights
Amber lights show up serious faults that will likely put your engine into a low-power mode (unlike red lights which may indicate the car will grind to a stop). The issues they flag are less severe, but they still require prompt attention. Examples include:
- Engine
- Braking system
- Low oil
- Glow plug
- Traction control
🚦Green lights
Green lights typically indicate that a system is active or provide general information. These lights aren’t showing a problem, they’re more like helpful reminders. Examples include:
- Indicators
- Cruise control
- Headlights
Common dashboard warning lights and their meanings
Engine management light (EML)
⚠️ Summary: Problem with the vehicle’s engine or emissions system
🚩 Associated issues: Anything from minor faults like a loose fuel cap to serious engine malfunctions.
🚘 MOT pass or fail: Automatic fail
ABS (anti-lock braking system) warning light
⚠️ Summary: Fault with the anti-lock braking system. This system helps you maintain control during hard braking.
🚩 Associated issues: The system isn’t functioning correctly, increasing the risk of skiing.
🚘 MOT pass or fail: Automatic fail
Airbag indicator
⚠️ Summary: Issue with the airbag system
🚩 Associated issues: There is a fault detected that may mean the airbags in your car won’t deploy correctly in an accident
🚘 MOT pass or fail: Automatic fail
Coolant temperature warning
⚠️ Summary: The engine is overheating
🚩 Associated issues: Low coolant levels, a faulty thermostat or a broken water pump. If ignored, it could result in severe engine damage.
🚘 MOT pass or fail: The light itself may not result in an automatic fail, but it should be addressed immediately to prevent serious engine damage.
Electrical fault light
⚠️ Summary: Problem with the vehicle’s electrical system
🚩 Associated issues: Examples are battery issues, a problem with the alternator or wiring issues.
🚘 MOT pass or fail: The light itself may not result in an automatic fail, significant electrical issues can result in a fail due to their impact on the vehicle’s overall safety.
As with anything, sorting the issue as quickly as possible is the best way to keep your vehicle safe and compliant with road regulations.
FAQs
How long can you legally drive without an MOT?
Legally driving without an MOT is risky. While you can drive to a pre-booked MOT test, driving without a valid MOT certificate can result in fines up to £1,000, points on your license, and your insurance being invalidated.
Do cameras pick up cars with no MOT?
Cameras can detect vehicles without MOT. ANPR cameras scan license plates and cross-reference with the DVLA database, flagging cars without MOT. This can lead to fines and penalties.
What happens if you forget to MOT your car?
Forgetting to MOT your car can lead to legal consequences. Driving without a valid MOT certificate can result in fines, penalty points, and invalidation of insurance. It’s crucial to keep track of your MOT expiry date to avoid legal issues and ensure your vehicle’s safety and compliance.
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Need to sell your car, or want to understand more about documentation or maintenance?Check out more of our guides here, covering everything from the paperwork you need when buying and selling, to various notices you may need to file with the UK’s driver and vehicle licensing agency.
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