If you're going to take your car for its MOT test in summer, pay attention to these details!

With the arrival of summer, car journeys increase significantly. That is why it becomes important to make sure that our vehicle meets safety standards for driving before setting off on any road trip.

Every year, when these dates approach, the DGT publishes its summer fatal accident report for 2022. The accident figures recorded during July and August of last year amount to a total of 225 people killed in 211 accidents, leaving nearly 900 victims hospitalised. These figures warn of the increase in road accidents during the holidays and aim to raise drivers’ awareness of the dangers on the road.

During these hot months, it is important to pay attention to the parts of the vehicle that, due to these conditions, may suffer wear greater than usual, which is why it is advisable to carry out an inspection of our vehicle during these months.

Many components can wear out, but there are some that are particularly important and we should check them before going to the MOT test if we don’t want to get an unfavourable result.

Main MOT failures in summer

The main components to check before going to the MOT in summer are the tyres, the lighting and signalling system, as well as the emissions test. During the period covered by last year’s study, these three aspects were the ones that generated the most failures at MOT stations in Madrid. It is therefore advisable to pay particular attention to these systems before carrying out the technical inspection ahead of the holidays.

• As for the lights and signalling, although summer driving usually takes place during daylight hours, it is necessary to check the headlamps to avoid dazzling other road users, to see and be seen, something that becomes essential on night journeys. During the previous summer, the lighting and signalling section recorded a failure rate of 36.2%. So far in 2023, this aspect has presented the most defects, with a failure rate of 37%.
• As for polluting emissions, although in 2023 the failure rate of vehicles whose emissions exceed the limits set by regulations has fallen by 9%, it is important to stress the importance of emitting zero polluting gases. During July and August 2022, 27% of vehicles were rejected in the technical inspection because of this aspect. If there is any sign of smoke or unusual smells from the vehicle, it is recommended to visit a workshop and carry out the appropriate maintenance before going to the MOT station.
• The tyre check is another essential element to review. High temperatures during long journeys can cause greater wear on the wheels, directly affecting the vehicle’s braking. Several studies have confirmed that the car’s performance can decrease by up to 15% due to heat. According to data provided by the Vehicle Archive of the Community of Madrid to AEMA-ITV, in July of last year, 25% of vehicles failed the MOT because of serious or very serious defects in the axles, wheels, tyres and suspension section.

Jorge Soriano, president of AEMA-ITV states: “Passing the technical inspection in summer guarantees the safety of your holidays. If all vehicles attended their MOT appointment before travelling, the rate of deaths and accidents on the road could be reduced.”