A leading UK car and bike retailer has warned drivers of the six most common ways vehicles fail its MOTs.

According to Halfords, over 29 per cent of all vehicles failed its first MOT for the reporting year 2023/24.

Vehicles over three years old require an annual MOT check to meet safety and environmental standards.

Read more: Busker praised by BBC Radio 1 DJ John Peel in Worcester

With defective lights and signalling issues contributing to 25.28 per cent of MOT failures, Halfords is urging drivers to regularly check all mandatory lamps: headlights, side lights, brake lights, indicators, hazard lights, fog lights, number plate lights and reversing lights, to avoid failure.

The company said that a replacement bulb can be fitted at one of its stores for as little as £11.

Halfords points out that suspension-related issues contribute to 19.95 per cent of MOT failures.

These problems usually result from damaged components such as worn-out suspension dampers, damaged springs, or leakage from suspension components.

The company has recommended a free suspension check that helps identify problems early, preventing unnecessary damage.

One in six vehicles fail its MOT because of faulty brakes, contributing 16.49 per cent to MOT failures.

Faulty brakes might range from excessively worn brake pads, significantly worn brake discs, brake fluid leaks or issues with the braking system’s efficiency.

The company has said it offers a free break check to help catch issues early.

Tyres contribute to 12.8 per cent of MOT failures, with common problems being insufficient tread depth or general tyre damage.

Halfords advises drivers to replace tyres when they reach a tread depth of two to three millimetres.

Visibility issues contribute to seven per cent of all MOT failures.

This includes everything from cracked or chipped windscreens, faulty washers, or worn-out wiper blades.

Halfords offers a 30-minute service to prevent windscreen chip-related MOT failures.

Lastly, exhaust and emissions malfunctions are responsible for 6.44 per cent of MOT failures.

These failures usually result from excessive emissions, noisy exhausts, or leakage from the exhaust system.

Halfords provides a free exhaust and catalytic converter check ahead of an MOT.

Halfords says regular vehicle checks can help save time and money, plus ensure drivers' safety on the road.