Will My Car Fail MOT with Engine Light On?

If your car’s engine light is on, you may be wondering if it will fail its MOT. The answer to this question depends on a number of factors, including the reason why the light is on and the severity of the problem.

What is an MOT?

An MOT is a mandatory annual safety inspection that all cars over three years old must undergo in the UK. The test checks a number of things, including the car’s brakes, tyres, lights, and exhaust emissions. If your car fails its MOT, you will not be able to drive it on the road until the problems have been fixed.

Why might my engine light be on?

There are a number of reasons why your car’s engine light might be on. Some of the most common causes include:

A loose or faulty gas cap
A faulty oxygen sensor
A problem with the catalytic converter
A problem with the emissions system
A major engine problem

Will my car fail its MOT if the engine light is on?

Whether or not your car will fail its MOT if the engine light is on depends on the reason why the light is on. If the problem is minor, such as a loose gas cap, it is unlikely that your car will fail. However, if the problem is more serious, such as a major engine problem, your car may well fail its MOT.

In general, if the engine light is on, it is best to get it checked out by a mechanic before you take your car for its MOT. This will give you a chance to fix the problem and avoid the risk of your car failing its MOT.

What should I do if my engine light is on?

If your car’s engine light is on, the first thing you should do is check the gas cap. If the gas cap is loose or faulty, tighten it and see if the light goes off. If the light does not go off, you should take your car to a mechanic to have it checked out.

The mechanic will be able to diagnose the problem and tell you whether or not it will affect your car’s MOT. If the problem is minor, the mechanic may be able to fix it on the spot. If the problem is more serious, the mechanic may need to keep your car for a few days to repair it.