Top 5 Suspension Components That Commonly Fail MOTs
Top 5 Suspension Components That Commonly Fail MOTs
Your car’s suspension system is vital for maintaining stability, handling, and overall safety on the road. During an MOT, suspension components are thoroughly inspected to ensure they meet safety standards. If any part of the system is worn, damaged, or no longer effective, it can lead to an MOT failure.
At Andrews Car Centre in Lincoln, we specialize in diagnosing and repairing suspension issues to help your vehicle pass its MOT. Here are the top five suspension components that commonly fail MOTs and why they’re critical to your car’s performance.
1. Shock Absorbers
What They Do:
Shock absorbers control the rebound of your car’s suspension springs, ensuring the tyres remain in contact with the road surface. They play a key role in handling and braking performance.
MOT Failure Causes:
- Leaking hydraulic fluid.
- Reduced damping performance, leading to excessive bouncing or poor handling.
- Corrosion or physical damage to the shock absorber body.
Why It Matters:
Faulty shock absorbers can increase stopping distances and reduce traction, particularly in wet or uneven conditions.
2. Coil Springs
What They Do:
Coil springs absorb road shocks and support the weight of the vehicle, working in tandem with the shock absorbers to provide a smooth ride.
MOT Failure Causes:
- Cracks or breaks in the spring.
- Corrosion that compromises the spring’s strength.
- Uneven height on one side of the vehicle due to a damaged spring.
Why It Matters:
A broken coil spring affects stability and can cause uneven tyre wear, making the car unsafe to drive.
3. Bushings
What They Do:
Bushings are small rubber or polyurethane components that cushion and reduce vibrations between suspension parts, such as control arms and the chassis.
MOT Failure Causes:
- Excessive wear or cracking in the rubber.
- Loose or detached bushings causing excessive movement.
- Visible deterioration that affects alignment or suspension stability.
Why It Matters:
Worn bushings can cause clunking noises, poor handling, and increased wear on other suspension components.
4. Ball Joints
What They Do:
Ball joints act as pivot points between the suspension and the wheels, allowing for smooth steering and suspension movement.
MOT Failure Causes:
- Excessive play or looseness in the joint.
- Wear or damage to the joint’s protective boot, allowing dirt and moisture to enter.
- Visible corrosion or cracking.
Why It Matters:
Faulty ball joints can cause erratic steering, uneven tyre wear, and a loss of vehicle control, especially during sharp turns or emergency manoeuvres.
5. Anti-Roll Bars and Drop Links
What They Do:
Anti-roll bars reduce body roll during cornering, improving stability and handling. Drop links connect the anti-roll bars to the suspension system.
MOT Failure Causes:
- Broken or bent anti-roll bars.
- Loose or worn drop links.
- Corrosion or damage to connecting components.
Why It Matters:
A faulty anti-roll bar system compromises your car’s ability to maintain stability, particularly during sharp turns or on uneven roads.
What to Do If Your Suspension Fails Its MOT
If your car fails its MOT due to suspension issues, it’s essential to address the problems promptly. Continuing to drive with faulty suspension components can lead to:
- Increased tyre wear and additional repair costs.
- Reduced handling and braking performance.
- Potential safety risks for you and other road users.
At Andrews Car Centre in Lincoln, our experienced technicians can:
- Inspect your suspension system to identify the root cause of the failure.
- Replace or repair worn components with high-quality parts.
- Ensure your car meets MOT standards and is safe to drive.
Why Choose Andrews Car Centre?
Drivers in Lincoln trust Andrews Car Centre for professional suspension repairs and MOT services because:
- Expert Technicians: Skilled in diagnosing and repairing all suspension-related issues.
- Advanced Tools: State-of-the-art equipment for accurate inspections and repairs.
- Transparent Pricing: Clear, upfront quotes with no hidden fees.
- Fast Turnaround: Efficient service to minimize your vehicle’s downtime.
Book Your Suspension Inspection Today
If you’re concerned about your suspension system or preparing for an MOT, visit Andrews Car Centre in Lincoln. Our team will ensure your vehicle is roadworthy, safe, and ready to pass its MOT.
📞 Call us today or visit our website to book your appointment. Keep your car in top condition with expert suspension care from Andrews Car Centre!