What Part of The Car Does the Law Require You to Keep in Good Condition?

Keeping your car in good condition isn’t just about staying safe on the road — it’s the law. The UK has strict vehicle maintenance requirements, and failing to meet them could lead to fines, penalty points, or even losing your licence. So, what part of the car does the law require you to keep in good condition? Let’s find out.

Why Does UK Law Require Certain Car Parts to be Kept in Good Condition?

How do vehicle safety standards protect drivers and pedestrians?

The UK’s vehicle safety standards are built around one fundamental goal — preventing accidents before they happen. Every car component, from brakes to tyres, plays a role in how safely you can drive. When your brakes grip properly and your tyres maintain good traction, your stopping distance shortens dramatically. Working lights ensure you’re visible, and functional mirrors allow you to see hazards early.

The government enforces these standards through the Highway Code and MOT testing, ensuring that every car on the road meets minimum safety criteria. When these systems work together, they create a safer environment for everyone.

What role does the Road Traffic Act 1988 play in car maintenance laws?

The Road Traffic Act 1988 is the cornerstone of vehicle condition law in the UK. Under Section 40A, it’s an offence to drive a car that’s in a dangerous condition — even if you weren’t aware of the fault. This law applies to everything from tyres and brakes to lights and steering.

Essentially, the law puts the responsibility squarely on the driver and vehicle owner. You must take reasonable steps to ensure your vehicle is safe before you drive it. Police officers and MOT inspectors use this legislation to assess whether a car poses a danger on the road. If it does, it can be prohibited from use immediately.

How do MOT tests ensure roadworthiness compliance in the UK?

The MOT test is the government’s way of checking that vehicles meet the minimum legal standards for safety, roadworthiness, and environmental performance. Once your car is more than three years old, it must pass this test every 12 months.

During the MOT, examiners assess brakes, tyres, suspension, steering, and emissions. They also check lights, mirrors, and seatbelts. Each component is rated as pass, advisory, or fail, giving you a clear view of your car’s condition. A failed MOT means your car is not legally roadworthy and cannot be driven (except to a garage for repairs).

According to the DVSA,

“Lighting and signalling faults account for around 18% of all MOT failures”, showing how small oversights can lead to serious consequences.

Which Parts of the Car are Legally Required to be Kept in Good Condition?

Why are brakes a legal requirement to maintain in working order?

Brakes are one of the most critical safety features on your vehicle. They must be in full working order at all times. If your brake pads are worn or your brake fluid is low, your stopping distance increases — and that could lead to a serious accident.

A quick weekly check can make all the difference:

• Test the brake pedal for firmness.

• Listen for grinding or squealing sounds.

• Check the brake fluid level.

What lighting and signalling systems must meet UK road standards?

Your car’s lighting system — including headlights, brake lights, indicators, and number plate lights — must all work correctly to comply with UK law. These aren’t just conveniences; they’re communication tools that let other drivers know what you’re doing.

Imagine driving at night with one headlight out. Not only does it reduce your visibility, but it also confuses oncoming traffic. Similarly, a faulty indicator can lead to accidents when drivers behind you can’t predict your next move.

The police can issue a Vehicle Defect Rectification Notice (VDRN) if they find a faulty light, giving you 14 days to repair it. Failing to do so could lead to prosecution. Regularly check all exterior lights — it only takes a minute but could prevent a fine or a collision.

How does tyre condition affect road safety and legal compliance?

Tyres are another part of the car the law requires you to keep in good condition. In the UK:

• The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre.

• Tyres must be free from cuts, bulges, or exposure of the ply or cord.

Driving with illegal tyres can result in a £2,500 fine and three penalty points per tyre. That’s a costly mistake for something so easy to check.

Why must your steering and suspension systems be maintained properly?

The steering and suspension systems determine how your car handles, corners, and absorbs road bumps. When these systems are in good condition, your car remains stable and predictable. But when they wear out, it becomes harder to steer accurately, especially during sudden manoeuvres.

Common signs of trouble include vibrations in the steering wheel, uneven tyre wear, or strange clunking noises over bumps. During an MOT, mechanics check for worn or loose parts and fluid leaks. Ignoring these issues can lead to accidents, as even a small delay in steering response can cause a serious collision.

What are the legal requirements for mirrors and windows in the UK?

Your mirrors must provide a clear rear and side view, while your windscreen should be free from large cracks or chips. The law states:

• You must have at least two mirrors (one internal and one external on the driver’s side).

• Windscreen damage in the driver’s field of vision larger than 10mm can fail an MOT.

How does the law address windscreen wipers and washers?

Windscreen wipers and washers might seem minor, but they’re vital for visibility. UK law demands that both work effectively to clear your view of the road. Faulty wipers or empty washer fluid bottles are among the most common MOT failures, often because drivers overlook them.

To stay compliant, check your wipers regularly for cracks or streaking. If the blades squeak or leave smudges, replace them immediately. Keep your washer fluid topped up — water alone isn’t enough to cut through grease and dirt.

It’s also illegal to drive if you can’t see clearly through your windscreen, even if the wipers are functioning. Clean, efficient wipers keep you safe and within the law.

Why is the exhaust system important for emissions and legal standards?

The exhaust system controls emissions and noise levels. If your exhaust is leaking or excessively noisy, your car could fail its MOT.

Keeping your exhaust system in good shape not only avoids fines but also reduces your carbon footprint.

How Do MOT Tests Check Whether These Parts Meet Legal Standards?

What is included in an MOT inspection checklist?

An MOT test is designed to ensure your car meets the minimum legal safety and environmental standards required for UK roads. It’s more than just a quick look under the bonnet — it’s a detailed inspection covering over 20 systems and components.

How does the MOT determine if your vehicle is roadworthy?

The MOT test uses a structured grading system to assess the roadworthiness of your car. Each fault or issue is classified into one of three categories:

• ✅ Pass – Your vehicle meets the legal minimum safety and environmental standards.

• ⚠️ Advisory – The car passes, but the tester identifies issues that could worsen over time (like worn brake pads).

• ❌ Fail – The vehicle has major or dangerous faults that make it unfit for the road.

When a car fails, the MOT centre records the failure in the DVSA database immediately. If the fault is serious, you’ll be prohibited from driving it until repaired.

The MOT ensures that all vehicles on UK roads maintain consistent safety levels — protecting you and everyone else from preventable accidents caused by mechanical failure.

What happens if your car fails an MOT due to poor condition?

Failing an MOT isn’t the end of the world, but it’s a clear sign your car isn’t legally safe to drive. The tester will issue a VT30 refusal certificate, detailing which parts failed and why.

From there, you have two options:

• Repair the faults at the same garage and get a free retest within 10 working days.

• Take your car elsewhere for repairs, but you’ll need a new test (and fee).

You can only drive a failed vehicle:

• To a garage for repairs, or

• To a pre-booked MOT test.

Driving a failed car on public roads for any other reason is illegal. Insurance may also be invalidated because the vehicle isn’t roadworthy.

How often should you book an MOT test to stay compliant?

You must get an MOT every 12 months after your car’s third birthday. It’s smart to book a few weeks early so you have time to fix any issues before the expiry date.

What Penalties Apply if you Drive a Car not in Good Condition?

What fines or penalties can you face under UK driving laws?

Driving an unroadworthy car can lead to:

• Fines up to £2,500 per offence

• 3 penalty points per fault

• Driving ban in severe cases

Police can also issue an immediate prohibition notice, meaning your car can’t be driven until repaired.

How can driving an unroadworthy vehicle affect your insurance?

Even if you’re insured, your policy won’t protect you if you knowingly drive an unsafe or unroadworthy vehicle. Most insurers include a clause that voids cover if the car doesn’t meet legal standards or fails an MOT.

That means if you’re in an accident and your tyres are bald, brakes are faulty, or lights are broken, you might be personally liable for all costs — including damage to other vehicles and injuries.

To avoid this risk:

• Keep all maintenance records and MOT certificates.

• Fix minor issues before they worsen.

• Schedule regular garage checks even between MOTs.

Maintaining your vehicle isn’t just about avoiding fines — it’s about protecting yourself financially and legally.

What are the possible criminal charges for ignoring vehicle maintenance laws?

In extreme cases, neglecting vehicle maintenance can lead to criminal prosecution. If a poorly maintained car causes a serious accident, the driver can be charged with:

• Dangerous driving, carrying up to two years in prison and an unlimited fine.

• Causing death by dangerous driving, which can result in up to 14 years’ imprisonment.

These cases often involve severe mechanical faults such as brake failure, bald tyres, or steering defects that could have been avoided with regular maintenance.

How Can you Keep your Car Legally Roadworthy Year-Round?

What regular checks should drivers perform before a journey?

Quick weekly checks help you avoid legal trouble:

• Tyre tread and pressure

• Brake responsiveness

• Lights and indicators

• Washer fluid and wipers

• Mirrors and windscreen

How can preventive maintenance save you from legal issues?

Preventive maintenance is about addressing small issues before they become major, costly problems. For instance, replacing brake pads when they start squealing costs a fraction of replacing the entire braking system later.

What role do professional inspections play in maintaining compliance?

While DIY checks are important, professional inspections are essential for spotting hidden problems. Mechanics use diagnostic tools that reveal issues you can’t see or hear — like brake fluid contamination, suspension weakness, or emission faults.

Professional inspections help:

• Detect wear before it becomes dangerous.

• Keep your car compliant with MOT standards.

• Improve performance and fuel efficiency.

How can using high-quality parts extend your car’s roadworthy life?

Using cheap replacement parts might save money initially, but they often wear out faster and can compromise safety. High-quality or OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are built to match your car’s specifications, ensuring better fit and durability.

Conclusion

In the UK, you’re legally required to keep essential parts of your car — brakes, tyres, lights, steering, and more — in good condition. Regular checks and annual MOTs aren’t just formalities; they keep you and everyone else safe on the road. Staying on top of maintenance helps you avoid fines, protect your insurance, and extend your vehicle’s lifespan.

FAQs

What part of a car is most important for safety?

Brakes and tyres are the most critical for safety, as they directly affect your ability to control and stop the vehicle.

Can I get fined for a broken light or bald tyre in the UK?

Yes. A defective light can earn you a rectification notice, while a bald tyre can lead to a £2,500 fine and three points per tyre.

How often should I check my brakes and tyres?

You should check them every week and before long journeys. Regular inspections keep you compliant and safe.

What are the most common MOT failures in the UK?

The most common failures include faulty lights, worn tyres, and issues with brakes and suspension.

Is it illegal to drive with a cracked windscreen in the UK?

Yes, if the crack is in the driver’s field of vision or wider than 10mm. It could cause an MOT failure or fine.