Ensuring your vehicle passes the MOT test is a critical part of maintaining your vehicle and staying legally compliant. When it comes to car lights, certain requirements become apparent, especially considering that some lights are more important than others. This article will delve into the details of which lights are crucial, the implications of having faulty lights, and how these requirements can affect your MOT certificate.

Introduction to MOT Tests and Car Lights

The MOT test is a periodic safety test in the UK and other countries that checks your vehicle to ensure it meets the legal safety and emission standards. During an MOT test, a qualified engineer inspects the vehicle and tests various components, including lighting systems. Understanding the nuances of these tests can help you avoid surprises and ensure a smooth MOT process.

External and Internal Lighting Checks

During an MOT test, the engineer will check the following external and internal lighting components to ensure they are functioning correctly:

Adequate illumination for the instrument panel All normally fitted external lights, including headlights, tail lights, fog lights, and reversing lights Daytime running lights (DRLs) mounted on the front of the vehicle The centre brake light (third brake light) and side repeaters Rear number plate lights (regulations changed in May 2018)

While all these lights are essential for the safety of the driver and other road users, some have more critical roles than others. The section below delves deeper into these roles.

Critical External Light Checks

Headlights: Headlights are crucial for visibility during nighttime or low visibility conditions. They ensure the driver can see the road ahead and other road users can see the vehicle. A faulty or poorly functioning headlight will almost certainly result in a fail. This includes both high and low beam headlights. The engineer will check the beam pattern, reflector, and any other components that affect the light output.

Tail Lights and Fog Lights: These lights help to signal the vehicle’s motion and position. Drivers use them to indicate when they are turning or stopping. Faulty tail lights or fog lights can lead to a fail, as they compromise the vehicle’s ability to communicate its movements accurately. The engineer will check for proper illumination, correct placement, and operational integrity.

Reversing Lights: Reversing lights are particularly important because they alert pedestrians and other road users when a vehicle is backing up. While reversing lights only became a requirement in 2009, any fault with these lights now subject to a MOT fail. The engineer will check the functionality, brightness, and placement of the reversing lights.

Daytime Running Lights (DRLs)

Daytime Running Lights: While DRLs are not MOT critical, they are essential for improving visibility during daylight hours. DRLs help drivers to see the vehicle on the road, especially important in fog or low visibility conditions. However, if a DRL fails, the test result will not be affected, as long as the vehicle has at least one working DRL or the car was manufactured before DRLs were mandatory. If the tester is informed that the DRL has been disconnected, the section will be noted but not penalized.

Centre Brake Light (Third Brake Light) and Side Repeaters

Third Brake Light and Side Repeaters: The centre brake light (third brake light) and side repeaters are also non-critical but important for safety. The centre brake light assists in providing a clear and consistent signal to other road users when the brakes are applied. Side repeaters, which are mounted on the side of the vehicle, help to indicate the vehicle is changing direction. While these are not mandatory, they can significantly enhance the visibility and safety of the vehicle. If either of these components is faulty, the test result will not be affected, provided the vehicle has at least one functional unit.

Rear Number Plate Lights and Their Changes

Rear Number Plate Lights: Until May 2018, failure of one of the two rear number plate lights would result in a fail. However, regulations changed, and now having one of the two rear number plate lights in working condition is sufficient to pass the test. This change recognizes the practical realities of vehicle maintenance and unexpected failures but maintains the safety integrity of the vehicle.

Conclusion

Ensuring that all external lights, including headlights, tail lights, fog lights, and reversing lights, are functioning properly is paramount for passing the MOT test. Daytime running lights, third brake lights, and side repeaters are important but can be managed if they are faulty, with the exception of reversing lights, which have no tolerance for failure. Familiarizing yourself with these requirements can help you build confidence in your vehicle’s safety and ensure a smooth MOT experience.