The braking system is one of the most important safety systems inspected during an MOT. An MOT tester checks the condition and operation of the vehicle’s braking components as well as testing whether the brakes provide sufficient braking force and operate evenly. The MOT brake test can include the brake pedal, brake pads and linings, discs and drums, brake pipes and hoses, master cylinder and servo, parking brake, ABS and electronic braking systems. Brake performance is also measured using approved testing equipment. Some brake problems result in a Major MOT failure, while serious defects that present an immediate safety risk can be classified as Dangerous. This guide explains what brakes are checked during an MOT, how brake performance is tested and some of the most common reasons for an MOT brake failure. For an overview of the complete test, see our MOT Test Checklist: What Is Checked on an MOT?.

What brakes are checked during an MOT?

Depending on the vehicle and braking system fitted, the MOT can include checks of:

• Service brake pedal and its operation
• Parking brake or handbrake
• Electronic parking brake
• Brake servo
• Master cylinder
• Brake fluid
• Rigid brake pipes
• Flexible brake hoses
• Brake pads and linings
• Brake discs and drums
• Brake callipers and actuators
• Brake cables, rods and linkages
• Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
• Electronic braking system (EBS)
• Brake warning lights
• Brake efficiency
• Brake balance
• Binding or grabbing brakes
• Brake performance at individual wheels
• Air and vacuum systems where fitted
• Additional braking devices where applicable

Not every vehicle uses the same braking system, so the exact inspection varies according to the vehicle’s design, age and equipment.

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How are brakes tested during an MOT?

For most vehicles, brake performance is tested using a roller brake tester. The wheels are placed on powered rollers and the braking force generated at each wheel is measured. This allows the tester to assess both: Brake efficiency – whether the braking system produces sufficient overall braking force. Brake balance – whether braking effort is reasonably balanced between wheels on the same axle. The test can also identify issues such as:

• A brake producing little or no effort
• Excessive imbalance
• Binding brakes
• Grabbing brakes
• Abnormal delay in brake operation
• Excessive fluctuation in braking effort

Some vehicles cannot safely or appropriately be tested on conventional rollers. In these circumstances, an approved decelerometer can be used during a road test to measure braking performance.

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Brake performance

Brake performance is one of the most important parts of the MOT brake inspection. The tester assesses individual wheel braking effort as well as overall efficiency and balance.

Brake performance – quick reference

Defect	MOT category
Braking effort inadequate at a wheel	MAJOR
No braking effort recorded at a wheel	DANGEROUS
Excessive brake imbalance across an axle	MAJOR
Severe imbalance on a steered axle meeting the dangerous threshold	DANGEROUS
Brake grabbing severely	MAJOR
Abnormal delay in operation of a brake	MAJOR
Excessive fluctuation in braking effort	MAJOR
Significant brake effort with no brake applied, indicating binding	MAJOR
Brake performance cannot be tested	MAJOR

The MOT tester applies the detailed limits and calculations specified in the current DVSA inspection manual.

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Brake efficiency

Brake efficiency measures the braking force produced relative to the vehicle. For most vehicles tested on a roller brake tester, the MOT testing system calculates the brake efficiencies. The required minimum efficiency varies according to the vehicle and braking system.

Brake efficiency – quick reference

Defect	MOT category
Service brake efficiency below the applicable minimum requirement	MAJOR
Service brake efficiency less than 50% of the required value	DANGEROUS

This is one reason a vehicle can fail its MOT even when the brakes appear to work normally during everyday driving.

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Brake pedal

The service brake pedal and its associated pivot and controls are inspected. The tester can check:

• Pedal operation
• Excessive wear or free play
• Reserve travel
• Whether the brake releases correctly
• Anti-slip provision
• Condition of the pedal pivot

A brake pedal should have sufficient reserve travel and should not reach the floor under the conditions specified by the MOT test.

Brake pedal condition and travel – quick reference

Defect	MOT category
Insufficient reserve travel	MAJOR
Service brake control not releasing correctly	MINOR
Brake control fault affecting brake functionality	MAJOR
Required anti-slip provision missing, loose or worn smooth	MAJOR

A smooth aftermarket pedal rubber is not automatically a defect simply because its original pattern has worn away. The tester considers the applicable anti-slip requirements and pedal design.

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Parking brake and handbrake

The parking brake — commonly called the handbrake — forms part of the MOT brake inspection. Depending on the vehicle it may be:

• Hand operated
• Foot operated
• Electronically operated
• Incorporated into another vehicle control

The tester checks applicable components for operation, condition and excessive movement.

Parking brake – quick reference

Defect	MOT category
Parking brake ratchet not holding correctly	MAJOR
Lever pivot or ratchet mechanism obviously worn	MINOR
Mechanism worn enough that brake may inadvertently release	MAJOR
Parking brake lever has excessive movement indicating incorrect adjustment	MAJOR
Parking brake control missing, defective or inoperative	MAJOR
Electronic parking brake malfunction indicator showing a fault	MAJOR
Applicable parking brake cannot be maintained by direct mechanical action	MAJOR

A parking brake lever must have obvious excessive travel before it is rejected for excessive movement.

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Will a handbrake fail an MOT?

It can fail for several reasons. These include:

• Insufficient braking performance
• Excessive lever movement
• Defective control
• Ratchet not holding correctly
• Serious wear
• Electronic parking brake fault

A handbrake that feels unusually loose, requires excessive travel or does not securely hold the vehicle should be investigated before the MOT.

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Brake servo and master cylinder

Hydraulic braking systems commonly use a master cylinder and some form of brake assistance. Many vehicles use a vacuum servo, although modern vehicles can use electronic assistance or brake-by-wire systems instead. Where applicable, the tester checks the operation and condition of these systems.

Brake servo and master cylinder – quick reference

Defect	MOT category
Brake servo defective or ineffective	MAJOR
Brake servo inoperative	DANGEROUS
Master cylinder defective but brakes still operating	MAJOR
Master cylinder leaking	DANGEROUS
Master cylinder insecure	MAJOR
Brake fluid below minimum mark	MINOR
Brake fluid significantly below minimum mark	MAJOR
Brake fluid not visible where applicable	DANGEROUS
Master cylinder reservoir cap missing	MAJOR

Hydraulic brake fluid levels are checked through transparent reservoirs or applicable indicators. The MOT inspection does not require the tester to remove the reservoir cap simply to check the fluid level.

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Brake pipes

Rigid brake pipes are inspected where visible. The tester looks for problems including:

• Corrosion
• Damage
• Chafing
• Leaks
• Inadequate support
• Risk of failure

Corrosion is particularly important because brake pipes operate under considerable hydraulic pressure.

Brake pipes – quick reference

Defect	MOT category
Brake pipe at imminent risk of failure or fracture	DANGEROUS
Air brake pipe or connection leaking	MAJOR
Hydraulic brake pipe or connection leaking	DANGEROUS
Brake pipe damaged or excessively corroded	MAJOR
Brake pipe inadequately clipped or supported	MINOR
Brake pipe likely to become detached or damaged	MAJOR

Will corroded brake pipes fail an MOT?

They can. Surface corrosion does not automatically mean failure, but a brake pipe that is excessively corroded or damaged can result in a Major defect. A pipe at imminent risk of failure or fracture is considerably more serious and can be classified as Dangerous.

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Flexible brake hoses

Flexible brake hoses allow the braking system to accommodate suspension and steering movement. The tester checks accessible hoses for:

• Damage
• Chafing
• Twisting
• Stretching
• Bulging
• Porosity
• Leaks
• Corrosion of hose ferrules

Flexible brake hoses – quick reference

Defect	MOT category
Brake hose damaged and likely to fail	DANGEROUS
Hose slightly damaged, chafed or twisted	MINOR
Hose excessively damaged, chafed, twisted or stretched	MAJOR
Hydraulic brake hose or connection leaking	DANGEROUS
Brake hose bulging under pressure	MAJOR
Brake hose porous	MAJOR
Brake hose ferrule excessively corroded	MAJOR
Ferrule excessively corroded and likely to fail	DANGEROUS

A hose damaged sufficiently to expose its reinforcement is a serious concern and should be repaired promptly.

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Brake pads and linings

Brake pads and linings are inspected where they can be assessed. The tester considers their condition, wear and correct installation.

Brake pads and linings – quick reference

Defect	MOT category
Brake lining or pad worn down to wear indicator	MAJOR
Brake lining or pad worn below 1.5mm	DANGEROUS
Brake lining or pad contaminated with oil, grease or similar material	MAJOR
Brake lining or pad missing or incorrectly mounted	DANGEROUS

Will worn brake pads fail an MOT?

Yes, if the wear reaches the applicable defect threshold. A brake pad or lining worn down to its wear indicator is a Major defect. If a pad or lining is worn below 1.5mm, it is classified as Dangerous. A brake-pad warning light can also be relevant to the inspection.

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Brake discs and drums

Brake discs and drums are inspected for their condition where visible. The tester looks for significant wear, damage, contamination, insecurity and other serious defects. Importantly, a brake disc being below a manufacturer’s recommended dimension is not automatically an MOT failure by itself. The tester assesses the component against the MOT inspection criteria.

Brake discs and drums – quick reference

Defect	MOT category
Brake disc or drum significantly and obviously worn	MAJOR
Disc or drum insecure, fractured or otherwise likely to fail	DANGEROUS
Disc or drum contaminated with oil, grease or similar material	MAJOR
Required disc or drum missing	DANGEROUS
Brake drum back plate insecure	MAJOR

Can scored brake discs fail an MOT?

Scoring by itself does not automatically mean an MOT failure. The tester considers the overall condition of the disc and whether it meets the applicable defect criteria. A disc that is significantly and obviously worn can result in a Major defect, while a disc that is fractured or otherwise likely to fail can be Dangerous.

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Brake callipers and actuators

Brake callipers, wheel cylinders and other applicable actuators are also inspected. The tester can assess their condition, security, operation and leaks. A severely damaged, insecure or leaking braking component can result in an MOT failure, with the category depending on the nature and severity of the defect.

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Brake cables, rods and linkages

Mechanical braking components such as parking-brake cables, rods and linkages are inspected where applicable. The tester can look for:

• Excessive wear
• Damage
• Corrosion
• Insecurity
• Restricted movement
• Missing components
• Unsafe modifications

The parking brake is operated while relevant linkages and cables are assessed.

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ABS – anti-lock braking system

Where an anti-lock braking system is fitted and subject to the test, relevant ABS components and warning indications are inspected. The tester can check:

• ABS warning device
• Whether the warning device indicates a malfunction
• Wheel-speed sensors
• Wiring
• Other relevant ABS components

ABS – quick reference

Defect	MOT category
ABS warning device not working	MAJOR
ABS warning device indicates a system malfunction	MAJOR
Wheel-speed sensor missing or damaged	MAJOR
ABS wiring damaged	MAJOR
Other required ABS component missing or damaged	MAJOR

If ABS has intentionally been rendered inoperative, specific requirements apply. It is not permissible to remove or disable ABS from a vehicle first used on or after 1 January 2010.

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Will an ABS warning light fail an MOT?

An ABS warning device indicating a system malfunction is a Major defect, so the vehicle will fail its MOT. An ABS warning light that remains illuminated should therefore be diagnosed before presenting the vehicle for its MOT. Simply attempting to conceal or disable the warning indication does not resolve the underlying MOT requirement.

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Electronic parking brake warning light

Electronic parking brakes are increasingly common. An electronic parking brake malfunction indicator showing a system fault is a Major defect. If an EPB warning appears on the dashboard, have the system diagnosed before the MOT rather than assuming the parking brake will pass because it still appears to operate.

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Electronic braking system (EBS)

Applicable electronic braking systems are also inspected. For vehicles with relevant electronically controlled braking systems, warning devices can form part of the MOT inspection.

Electronic braking system – quick reference

Defect	MOT category
EBS warning device not working	MAJOR
EBS warning device showing a system malfunction	MAJOR

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Brake fluid

Brake fluid forms part of the MOT inspection. The fluid level can be checked where the reservoir is transparent or an applicable indicator is fitted. Brake fluid contamination is also relevant.

Brake fluid – quick reference

Defect	MOT category
Brake fluid below minimum mark	MINOR
Brake fluid significantly below minimum mark	MAJOR
Brake fluid not visible where applicable	DANGEROUS
Brake fluid clearly contaminated	MAJOR

A brake fluid warning lamp can be shared with other functions, such as the parking brake or brake-pad wear indication, so the tester considers the reason for the warning.

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Binding brakes

A binding brake does not release properly when the brake control is released. This can cause:

• Excessive heat
• Increased fuel consumption
• Premature brake wear
• Vehicle pulling
• Reduced braking performance

During brake performance testing, significant braking effort recorded when the brake is not being applied can indicate a binding brake. This can result in a Major defect.

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Brake imbalance

The MOT doesn’t only assess how much braking force the vehicle produces. The tester also checks whether braking effort is appropriately balanced between wheels on the same axle. Significant imbalance can cause a vehicle to pull to one side under braking and reduce stability. Excessive imbalance can result in a Major defect, while particularly severe imbalance on a steered axle can be classified as Dangerous.

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Common MOT brake failures

Common braking problems that can result in MOT defects include:

• Worn brake pads
• Seriously worn brake discs
• Corroded brake pipes
• Damaged flexible brake hoses
• Brake fluid leaks
• Low brake fluid
• Master cylinder leaks
• Brake servo faults
• Poor braking efficiency
• Excessive brake imbalance
• Binding brakes
• Parking brake faults
• Excessive handbrake travel
• ABS warning light showing a malfunction
• Damaged ABS sensors or wiring
• Electronic parking brake faults
• Contaminated brake fluid
• Insecure braking components

Because brakes are safety-critical, some serious faults are classified as Dangerous rather than simply Major.

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Signs of brake problems before an MOT

Drivers should pay attention to symptoms such as:

• Brake warning light illuminated
• ABS warning light illuminated
• Electronic parking brake warning
• Vehicle pulling to one side when braking
• Brake pedal feels unusually soft
• Excessive pedal travel
• Grinding or scraping noises
• Squealing brakes
• Steering-wheel vibration under braking
• Vehicle vibration when braking
• Handbrake travel noticeably increased
• Parking brake not holding the vehicle
• Brake fluid level falling
• Visible brake fluid leak
• Burning smell or excessive heat from a wheel

These symptoms don’t necessarily identify the precise MOT defect, but they are good reasons to have the braking system inspected before the test.

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Pre-MOT brake checklist

Some basic checks can be made before presenting a vehicle for its MOT. Check:

• Brake pedal feels normal
• Brake pedal doesn’t travel to the floor
• Brakes release correctly
• Parking brake operates normally
• Handbrake travel isn’t obviously excessive
• Parking brake holds the vehicle
• ABS warning light completes its normal sequence and isn’t indicating a fault
• Electronic parking brake warning isn’t indicating a malfunction
• Brake fluid level is correct where it can safely be checked
• No obvious brake-fluid leaks
• No unusual noises when braking
• Vehicle doesn’t obviously pull strongly to one side under normal braking

Do not dismantle braking components or work beneath a vehicle unless you have the appropriate knowledge, equipment and safe working arrangements. Many brake components can only be properly assessed with the vehicle raised and with suitable brake-testing equipment. For the other areas worth checking before the test, use our complete MOT test checklist.

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MOT Brake FAQs

What brakes are checked on an MOT?

The MOT can include the brake pedal, parking brake, brake pads and linings, discs and drums, brake pipes and hoses, master cylinder, servo, brake fluid, ABS, electronic braking systems and other relevant braking components. Brake performance and balance are also tested.

How are brakes tested during an MOT?

Most vehicles are tested using an approved roller brake tester, which measures braking force at individual wheels and allows efficiency and balance to be assessed. Where roller testing is unsuitable, an approved decelerometer can be used in accordance with the MOT requirements.

Will worn brake pads fail an MOT?

They can. A brake pad or lining worn to the wear indicator is a Major defect. If it is worn below 1.5mm, the defect is Dangerous.

Will scored brake discs fail an MOT?

Not automatically. The tester assesses the actual condition of the disc. A disc that is significantly and obviously worn can result in a Major defect, while a fractured or otherwise dangerous disc can result in a Dangerous defect.

Will rusty brake discs fail an MOT?

Surface corrosion does not automatically mean failure. The tester assesses the condition and performance of the brake against the applicable MOT requirements.

Will corroded brake pipes fail an MOT?

Excessively corroded or damaged brake pipes can result in a Major defect. A pipe at imminent risk of failure or fracture can be Dangerous.

Will a brake fluid leak fail an MOT?

Yes, qualifying brake-fluid leaks can result in failure. A hydraulic brake pipe or connection leak can be classified as Dangerous.

Will low brake fluid fail an MOT?

Brake fluid below the minimum mark can be Minor. If it is significantly below minimum it can be Major, while fluid not being visible where the applicable check can be made can be Dangerous.

Will an ABS warning light fail an MOT?

An ABS warning device showing a system malfunction is a Major defect and therefore an MOT failure.

Will a handbrake fail an MOT?

It can. The parking brake is inspected for its condition, operation and performance. Problems such as a ratchet not holding, excessive movement or an inoperative parking-brake control can result in a Major defect.

Does an MOT test brake efficiency?

Yes. The MOT includes brake-performance testing. The applicable service, secondary and parking brake efficiencies are assessed against the requirements for the vehicle.

Can a binding brake fail an MOT?

Yes. Significant brake effort recorded with no brake applied, indicating a binding brake, can result in a Major defect.

Does an MOT tester remove the wheels to inspect the brakes?

An MOT is primarily an inspection of accessible and visible components using the prescribed test methods. It is not the same as dismantling the braking system during a service or repair inspection.

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MOT brake defect categories

Throughout this guide the braking defects are described as Minor, Major or Dangerous.

Minor

A Minor defect does not have a significant effect on the safety of the vehicle or impact on the environment. The vehicle can still pass its MOT, although the defect should be repaired.

Major

A Major defect results in an MOT failure.

Dangerous

A Dangerous defect represents a direct and immediate risk to road safety or a serious environmental impact. The vehicle fails its MOT and should not be driven until the dangerous defect has been repaired.

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Brakes, tyres, steering and suspension

A vehicle’s braking performance is closely connected with the condition of its tyres, wheels, steering and suspension. Problems in these areas can affect stability, grip and how the vehicle behaves during braking. For more information, read: MOT Steering Test: What Is Checked and What Can Fail? MOT Test of Tyres and Roadwheels MOT Test of Suspension

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More information about MOT brake requirements

The MOT brake inspection is extensive because the braking system is critical to vehicle safety. The exact checks and defect classifications depend on the vehicle and the type of braking equipment fitted. MOT testers should therefore always refer to the current DVSA MOT inspection manual when applying the test requirements. For an overview of the complete MOT inspection, read our MOT Test Checklist: What Is Checked on an MOT?. You can also browse our individual MOT test descriptions and checks. For the definitive technical requirements, refer to the DVSA MOT inspection manual – Brakes. This article provides general information about MOT brake requirements in Great Britain. Requirements can vary according to vehicle type, age, design and braking equipment and can change. MOT testers should always use the current DVSA MOT inspection manual when applying test standards and defect classifications.