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 line of sight is defined as the area of the windscreen directly in front of the driver’s position. If the crack obstructs this area, it can impair the driver’s ability to see the road clearly and therefore poses a safety risk.

A crack in the driver’s line of sight, regardless of its size, 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. If the crack extends into this zone, the vehicle will fail the test.

When Is a Cracked Windscreen Not an Issue? If the crack is outside of the driver’s line of sight and does not 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. Small chips can often be repaired quickly and cheaply, but larger cracks may require a full windscreen replacement. Most car insurers offer coverage for windscreen repairs, so it's worth checking your policy. 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.