Will My Car Pass Its MOT With Worn Brake Pads?

It depends how worn they are.

Brake pads are checked as part of the MOT. If the tester deems them to be excessively worn or unsafe, your vehicle will fail. If there is still sufficient friction material remaining and braking performance meets the required standard, the vehicle should pass.

The decision is based on the condition of the pads at the time of the test.

How Are Brake Pads Checked During an MOT?

Brake pads are assessed as part of a visual inspection.

During an MOT, the wheels are not removed. This means the tester can only inspect what is visible through the wheel or brake assembly. Measuring the exact thickness of the brake pads is not always possible during the test.

If the pads appear excessively worn or close to the metal backing plate, this will be recorded as a Major defect and the vehicle will fail.

Why a Wheels Off Brake Inspection Matters?

Because the wheels are not removed during an MOT, the condition of your brakes cannot always be fully assessed during the test.

Your vehicle should have a wheels off inspection during its annual service, or at least every other year, to properly check the condition of the brake pads and brake discs. This allows for accurate measurement and early identification of wear or damage.

Routine servicing reduces the likelihood of unexpected MOT failures and helps maintain safe braking performance.

What Should I Do If I Am Concerned About My Brakes?

If you notice squealing, grinding, reduced braking performance, or any other braking concerns, contact your garage for an inspection.

Brake components are critical safety items. If you are unsure about their condition, regardless if your MOT is approaching, it is sensible to have them checked.