How Brake Pad Wear Impacts Your MOT Test Result

Regular brake maintenance is essential for road safety and vehicle performance. During an MOT test in the UK, the braking system is one of the most critical components inspected. Worn or damaged brake pads can lead to a failed MOT and may compromise your safety on the road. This article explains how brake pad wear impacts your MOT test result and what you can do to avoid a failure.

Are Brake Pads Checked During an MOT Test?

Yes, brake pads are thoroughly checked during an MOT test. Examiners assess the braking efficiency, the condition of the brake pads, and their thickness. If the pads are excessively worn or below the legal limit, your vehicle will not pass the MOT. Typically, a brake pad thickness of less than 1.5mm is considered dangerous and will result in an immediate fail.

How Worn Brake Pads Can Cause MOT Failure

Worn brake pads reduce the braking system's efficiency, increasing the stopping distance of your car. This poses a significant safety risk, particularly in emergency braking situations. Common reasons for failure due to brake pad wear include:

• Pads worn below the minimum legal thickness.
• Uneven brake pad wear causing instability.
• Damage to the pads, such as cracking or contamination with oil or grease.

If the MOT tester identifies any of these issues, your car will fail the test, and repairs must be carried out before a retest.

Signs Your Brake Pads May Need Replacing Before an MOT

To avoid failure, you should inspect and replace brake pads when necessary before your MOT test. Look out for these warning signs:

• Squealing or grinding noises when braking.
• The brake warning light illuminated on your dashboard.
• Reduced braking performance or increased stopping distance.
• Vibrations when pressing the brake pedal.

If any of these signs appear, schedule a brake inspection before your MOT appointment.

How to Prevent MOT Failure Due to Brake Pad Wear

Prevention is always better than cure. Regularly servicing your vehicle ensures your brake pads remain in good condition. It is advisable to have your brakes checked at least once a year or every 12,000 miles. Replacing worn pads in advance is often cheaper and safer than waiting until they cause an MOT failure.

Final Thoughts

Brake pads are a vital safety component, and their condition directly affects your MOT result. By keeping your brakes in top condition and replacing worn pads early, you not only increase your chances of passing the MOT test but also ensure the safety of yourself and other road users.