Common MOT Failures Caused by Worn Brake Pads

Thousands of cars in the UK are failing MOT tests each year because there are problems that could have been spotted and repaired many months before. Worn brake pads are one of the most common, but completely avoidable, causes of an MOT failure. Knowing the impact that brake pads have on an MOT result will help drivers keep safe on the road and enable them to avoid the added expense and aggravation of an MOT failure.

What Are Brake Pads and Why Do They Matter?

One of the essential components of a vehicle's braking system is the brake pads. The brake pads are used to slow the vehicle when the driver pushes down on the brake. The brake pads slow the vehicle by pressing against a metal disc (also known as a brake disc). Over time, the material on the brake pads gradually wears out. Once they are too thin, they are unable to do their job correctly, and that's where the problems begin.

A qualified MOT tester will test the brakes for safety and effectiveness. The vehicle will not pass if the brake pads are worn beyond a safe amount. It's as simple as that.

How Worn Brake Pads Lead to MOT Failure?

Worn brake pads can cause several issues that may lead to an MOT test failure. Some of these issues are:

1. Braking Efficiency Below the Required Standard

The tester performs a brake performance test on the vehicle during an MOT. This tests a car's stopping power and evenness when slowing down. When the brake pads are too worn, the car cannot stop quickly enough and may also have less braking efficiency than the legal minimum.

This is one of the most frequent causes of vehicles failing their MOT. A test of the brakes can determine that the stopping power is inadequate for legal requirements, even though the driver feels that it is stopping properly.

2. Uneven Braking

If brake pads wear unevenly (one side of the vehicle wears down more than the other), the car may pull to one side while braking. This is known as brake imbalance, and it is a serious safety issue.

This is checked by the tester during an MOT. If the car veers sharply to one side when braking, it's probably going to be considered unsafe. This is often due to uneven wear on the brake pads, and replacing the pads is typically the first repair.

3. Damage to Brake Discs

When brake pads get worn down excessively, the metal portion of the pad may start to rub against the brake disc. This damages the disc, causing deep grooves or scoring on its surface.

If motorists have brake discs that have been badly scored or worn, this will also be identified during an MOT test. What started as a simple brake pad replacement can become a more expensive repair that also needs new brake discs. This can be avoided by catching worn pads early.

4. Warning Lights on the Dashboard

Many modern cars have a wear indicator that alerts the driver when the brake pads are worn out by displaying a warning indicator on the dashboard. The warning will be noted if it is lit during an MOT test.

In some instances, a warning light won't automatically cause a failure; however, the light indicates a problem in the braking system that will likely lead to a failure if the brakes are tested. Ignoring this warning light should never be a reason for drivers to avoid taking their vehicle for an MOT.

5. Unusual Noises During Braking

When the brake pads are worn, they tend to produce squealing or grinding sounds when applying the brakes. This is because most brake pads contain a small metal wear indicator that alerts the driver when the pads are becoming worn.

Any noises heard by a tester during the MOT will lead to a closer examination of the brakes. Especially if grinding noises are heard, it means that the pads are worn out completely, which will inevitably lead to failure.

What Can Drivers Do Before Their MOT?

Fortunately, this problem can be prevented if the vehicle is properly prepared with new brake pads. Drivers can take some simple steps before they book their vehicle for an MOT:

  • Listen for warning signs: If the brakes squeal, squeak, or grind while braking, it's a definite indication that they need to be replaced. It is not a good idea for drivers to put off dealing with these sounds until the MOT.
  • Pay attention to how the car feels: Any of the following situations indicate a problem with the braking system: The car pulls to one side when braking, it takes longer than usual to come to a stop, or the brake pedal feels spongy or loose.
  • Check the warning lights: If the brake pad warning light is on, make sure the brake pads are checked and replaced before the MOT inspection.
  • Book a pre-MOT check: Many garages will provide a free or low-cost inspection before the official inspection. This allows drivers to detect and repair any problems, such as worn brake pads, before they cause a failure.

The Cost of Ignoring Worn Brake Pads

Some drivers worry about worn brake pads because they think it will cost them a lot of money to fix them. But it's almost always more expensive to postpone brake pad replacement. As stated above, worn pads will damage the brake discs, which will make the repair much more expensive.

Most significantly, it's actually risky to drive with worn-down brake pads. Being able to brake in an emergency may mean the difference between preventing and causing an accident. It's too dangerous to risk saving money this way.

Conclusion

Brake pad failure is one of the most common problems that can lead to an MOT failure, but it shouldn't be. If drivers are knowledgeable about the warning signs and can arrange for brake pad replacement immediately, they can keep their vehicles safe, roadworthy, and able to pass the MOT test for the first time.


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