With millions of MOTs scheduled for September, LKQ Euro Car Parts is highlighting the top causes of failure to help independent garages prepare for increased demand during one of the busiest periods of the year.
Industry data from Autotech Recruit shows MOT demand is up by around 100,000 tests per month compared with the same period last year. And with vehicles registered in September now reaching their MOT deadlines, garages are set for another seasonal spike in workload.
According to the latest DVSA statistics, the most common reason vehicles failed their MOTs in 2024 was for suspension (19%) Components such as springs, shock absorbers and bushes face extra strain from poor road conditions and the added weight of modern vehicles. This results in noise, instability and uneven tyre wear. LKQ is advising garages to prepare by reviewing their inventory of core suspension parts and ensuring technicians are confident in diagnosing wear across a wide variety of makes and models.
Tyres were also a leading cause of MOT failures according to the DVSA (19%). Failures typically stem from tread depth falling below the legal minimum, sidewall damage or irregular wear caused by alignment issues. Tyres are also safety-critical, influencing braking distances and emissions. LKQ says workshops can get ahead by speaking to customers about tyre condition during servicing and keeping fast-moving sizes in stock to avoid delays when MOT failures occur.
Brakes were the third most frequent failure factor. Discs, pads and hydraulics wear steadily over time, with city driving and heavier vehicles accelerating deterioration. Common signs include reduced responsiveness, dashboard warnings and visible scoring on discs. For garages, LKQ is recommending that core braking products are well stocked, and to use MOTs as an opportunity to advise on linked services such as brake fluid changes or system checks to keep vehicles safe between tests.
Number plates continue to feature as a recurring failure point. With the rollout of new ‘75’ registration plates on 1 September, LKQ Euro Car Parts is reminding garages that it offers a compliant plate printing service through its nationwide network – helping workshops to address failures quickly and keep customers road legal.
Matt Robinson, B2B Director at LKQ Euro Car Parts, said: “September has long been one of the busiest months for MOTs. By preparing now, garages can reduce bottlenecks, maintain customer trust and ensure vehicles are back on the road quickly. Having the right stock and skills in place makes a measurable difference during peak demand.”
As vehicle technology develops, the requirements on garages are changing. Lee Chapman, Head of Support and LKQ Academy, said: “Suspension, tyres and brakes remain the key failure points today, but technicians are increasingly faced with more complex systems – from ADAS to electric drivetrains. These trends point towards the importance of ongoing training, with the prospect of a specific electric vehicle MOT currently under consultation.
“The LKQ Academy delivers IMI-approved programmes in core MOT areas as well as EV and hybrid technologies, ensuring workshops are equipped to meet both current and future needs.”
