Which dashboard warning lights fail an MOT?

By Dashboard Warnings Editorial Team · Published 20 October 2026

Since May 2018 several dashboard warning lights mean an automatic MOT failure in Great Britain. The list, and why.

Looking for more detail? Our full guide covers this topic in depth, with step-by-step advice and sources.

Since 20 May 2018, the MOT test in England, Scotland and Wales checks several dashboard warning lights. If one of these shows a fault, the car fails.

Lights that cause an MOT failure

• Engine management light (malfunction indicator lamp) staying on.
• Brake system warning lights, including brake fluid and electronic parking brake faults.
• ABS warning light.
• Electronic stability control (ESC) warning light.
• Airbag and seatbelt pretensioner (SRS) warning light.
• Electronic power steering warning light.
• Tyre pressure monitoring system warning on cars first used from 1 January 2012.
• Headlamp levelling or main beam warning lights where fitted and not working.

Bulb checks

The tester also checks that warning lamps light up and go out as designed. Removing a bulb to hide a warning is itself a fail.

Before your MOT

1. Start the car and check every warning light goes out.
2. Fix faults first. Fault codes can be read by a garage or an OBD-II reader.
3. Check exterior lights, tyres, wipers and washer fluid too.

Northern Ireland has its own MOT system with similar checks.

Sources and further reading

• GOV.UK: MOT inspection manual for cars
• GOV.UK: MOT changes from 20 May 2018
• The Highway Code

Facts checked on 20 October 2026. Spotted an error? Tell us and we will correct it.