Bank holidays and long-distance trips are a highlight for many UK drivers, but they often come with an unwelcome side effect: higher MOT failure rates. Garages regularly report a surge in failed MOTs in the weeks following busy travel periods. Understanding why this happens can help motorists prepare better and avoid costly surprises.
Long trips put sustained stress on your vehicle. Components that usually experience short, intermittent use are suddenly operating for hours at a time. Brakes, tyres, suspension, and engine systems all work harder, accelerating wear.
For example, motorway driving at higher speeds can expose weaknesses in tyres or brakes that might not show during everyday local journeys. By the time your car reaches its MOT test, these issues may have crossed the line from “acceptable” to “fail”.
Tyres are one of the most common MOT failure points after bank holidays. Long journeys increase tyre temperature and wear, especially if pressures were already incorrect. Add heavy loads from luggage or passengers, and tread depth can drop faster than expected.
Brakes are another problem area. Stop-start traffic around tourist hotspots, service stations, and roadworks can cause uneven brake wear or overheating. This often leads to MOT failures for brake efficiency or worn components.
UK roads see heavy use during bank holidays, and many routes include rural or poorly maintained surfaces. Potholes, uneven lanes, and speed bumps can damage suspension and steering components.
Worn shock absorbers, damaged bushes, or misaligned wheels may not be obvious to drivers but are quickly flagged during an MOT inspection. These issues are a key reason why failure rates rise after peak travel periods.
Long journeys can expose existing exhaust weaknesses. Corrosion, loose mountings, or small leaks may worsen due to vibration and heat cycles.
While longer drives can sometimes help clear diesel particulate filters (DPFs), they can also reveal emission problems if sensors or exhaust components are already failing. Emissions-related MOT failures are therefore more common after intensive use.
After a holiday or long trip, many drivers assume their car is “fine” because it completed the journey without breaking down. However, MOT tests focus on safety and legal standards, not just whether the car still drives.
Checking your vehicle’s MOT history and advisories using a trusted MOT checker like CheckMot can highlight recurring issues and help you prepare before your next test. You can review your vehicle’s records quickly at https://checkmot.com/.
A simple post-trip inspection can make a big difference. Check tyre tread and pressures, listen for unusual noises, and look for warning lights. Booking a basic service or inspection after a long journey can catch problems early, often at a lower repair cost than a failed MOT.
Why do MOT failures increase after bank holidays?
Extended driving increases wear on tyres, brakes, suspension, and exhaust systems, making faults more likely to be detected during MOT tests.
Are motorway journeys worse for MOT pass rates?
They can be, especially if tyres, brakes, or emissions systems are already worn or poorly maintained.
Should I service my car after a long trip?
Yes. A post-trip check or service can identify issues early and improve your chances of passing the MOT.
Can checking MOT history help prevent failures?
Absolutely. Reviewing past advisories highlights recurring problems so you can fix them before the next test.
How soon after a long trip should I check my car?
Ideally within a few days, especially if your MOT is due soon. Early checks reduce the risk of unexpected failures.