Will My Car Fail an MOT Due to a Cracked Windscreen?

A cracked windscreen can potentially cause your car to fail its MOT, depending on the size and location of the crack. The MOT test includes a thorough inspection of the windscreen and windows to ensure they meet safety standards. A crack in the windscreen can obstruct the driver's view or weaken the structural integrity of the vehicle, which can lead to a failed test.

When Will a Cracked Windscreen Cause an MOT Failure?

According to UK law, a crack in the windscreen is an issue if it is located within the driver's line of sight. The MOT test divides the windscreen into different zones:

• Zone A: A 290mm wide area centred on the steering wheel - damage over 10mm will fail
• Zone B: The rest of the swept area - damage over 40mm will fail

A crack in the driver's line of sight (Zone A), regardless of its size beyond 10mm, is a serious issue and will lead to an automatic MOT failure. The MOT tester will assess the damage and measure if it is within the critical area.

When Is a Cracked Windscreen Not an Issue?

If the crack is outside of the driver's line of sight and doesn't obstruct the vision of the road, it is less likely to cause a failure. The MOT tester will still note the crack, and if it's considered large or deep, it could still be flagged as an advisory. In some cases, a minor crack that is outside the driver's view may pass the test, but it is always a good idea to get it repaired before the MOT.

What to Do If You Have a Cracked Windscreen

If you notice a crack or chip in your windscreen, it's best to get it repaired before going for your MOT. Here are your options:

• Chip repair: Small chips can often be repaired quickly and cheaply (sometimes free through insurance)
• Windscreen replacement: Larger cracks may require a full windscreen replacement
• Insurance coverage: Many insurers offer windscreen cover as standard or as an add-on

A well-maintained windscreen will help you pass your MOT test and stay safe on the road.

To check your car's full MOT history and any past issues related to the windscreen or other parts of the vehicle, you can use our MOT Check page.

Conclusion

A cracked windscreen can cause your car to fail its MOT if the crack obstructs the driver's view or is within the critical area. It's always a good idea to address any cracks or chips in your windscreen before the test to ensure your car passes and remains safe to drive. Check your vehicle's MOT status using the MOT Check tool to track the status of your car's past tests.