Be bright and fix lights

Nearly a fifth of all MOT failures are down to blown bulbs, according to research from MyCarCheck.

Using data from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), it has investigated the most common MOT failures and found that lighting and signalling topped the list with 18.4%.

Suspension issues accounted for another 12%, with brakes, tyres and windscreens also in the top five.

Head of MyCarCheck.com, Roger Powell, said, ‘Our new Vehicle Factsheet provides buyers with everything they need to narrow their search. The MOT data is particularly useful as you can see if a vehicle sailed through its last test or needed work and a retest.

‘The advisory notices are also very useful as they show what repairs will likely need doing soon. Potentially expensive items, like four worn tyres, can be grounds to push for a price reduction. The mileage data protects against clocking, while the valuations confirm if the sticker price is in the right ball park. All this, in one place, for free – why wouldn’t you do it?’

Used car, van and motorbike buyers can now access MOT history completely free of charge as part of MyCarCheck’s new Vehicle Factsheet, which also features other previously charged-for data, notably valuations.