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Dangerous MOT Failures - Visibility
Part of the Dangerous MOT Failures Explained series.
Poor visibility is more than just inconvenient - it’s dangerous.
MOT Test rules account for visibility-related issues that make driving unsafe, including cracked windscreens and faulty wipers.
This category contains 2 dangerous MOT fail items, but their impact is serious. Without clear visibility, safe driving isn’t possible.
Full List of Dangerous MOT Faults: Visibility
| Vehicle System / Component | MOT Manual Reference | Specific Fault / Issue | Description | MOT Fault Category |
| Visibility | 3.1 Field of vision | (b) A bonnet | (ii) seriously at risk of opening inadvertently | Dangerous |
| Visibility | 3.2 Condition of glass | (c) Windscreen or window | (ii) in such a condition that visibility through swept area is seriously affected | Dangerous |
What to Do If You Fail for This Issue
If your wipers don’t work or your windscreen is too damaged to see through, you’ve failed dangerously.
Visibility issues can develop quickly in bad weather, so repairs must be made immediately.
Avoid driving - even short distances - until visibility is restored and the MOT centre confirms the car is roadworthy.
Visibility - Symptoms to Watch For
- Windscreen wipers leave streaks or miss areas
- Washer jets blocked or not spraying
- Cracks, chips or discolouration in windscreen
- Fogging or condensation inside the windscreen
- Wiper motors make unusual sounds or failing
Poor visibility isn’t just inconvenient - it’s a safety risk. Keep your windscreen and wiper systems clean, functional, and free from damage.