If your MOT is approaching and your windscreen has a chip, crack or other damage, you may be wondering whether your vehicle will pass.
The answer depends on the type, size and location of the damage, as well as whether it affects the driver’s view of the road. Windscreen condition is specifically assessed during the MOT test, so understanding the basic requirements can help you deal with damage before your vehicle reaches the test centre.
Is Windscreen Damage Checked During an MOT?
Yes. The MOT test includes checks on the windscreen, its condition and the driver’s view through the glass.
DVSA guidance requires testers to assess the driver’s field of vision through the windscreen and inspect the condition of the glass. This means windscreen damage is not simply a cosmetic issue; depending on its location and severity, it can affect the result of your MOT.
How Much Windscreen Damage Is Allowed?
The requirements can vary depending on where the damage is located.
The driver’s central field of vision, known as Zone A, is subject to stricter requirements. Current DVSA guidance identifies Zone A as a 290mm-wide area centred on the steering wheel within the swept area of the windscreen.
Damage measuring more than 10mm in diameter within this area can constitute an MOT defect where the relevant conditions apply.
In the remainder of the swept area, the applicable threshold is larger, with damage exceeding 40mm potentially resulting in a defect where the relevant requirements are met.
These measurements provide useful guidance, but the overall effect of the damage on the driver’s view must also be considered.
What If the Damage Is Outside the Swept Area?
Damage outside the swept area may be treated differently during an MOT. However, this does not necessarily mean it should be ignored.
The windscreen must still allow the driver to maintain an appropriate view of the road. A significant crack can also spread over time, particularly when exposed to vibration, temperature changes or further impact.
Having the damage professionally assessed early can help determine whether repair is still possible.
Can a Windscreen Repair Still Pass an MOT?
Yes. A professionally repaired windscreen can pass an MOT.
DVSA guidance takes into account whether repaired damage interferes with the driver’s vision. A properly repaired area that is barely detectable does not automatically count as a defect simply because a repair has been carried out.
However, not all windscreen damage is suitable for repair. The correct solution depends on factors such as the size, location and type of damage, as well as the overall condition of the glass.
A professional assessment can help determine whether repair or replacement is appropriate.
What Happens If Your Windscreen Causes an MOT Failure?
If your vehicle fails its MOT because of a windscreen-related defect, you may need to have the issue repaired or the windscreen replaced before the vehicle can pass.
The circumstances surrounding a retest can depend on the MOT rules, the defect identified and the work required.
If you already know that your windscreen has significant damage, having it assessed before your MOT appointment may help you address the problem in advance rather than waiting for the test result.
What About Windscreen Chips?
A small windscreen chip does not automatically mean your vehicle will fail its MOT.
However, location matters. A small chip within the driver’s main field of vision can be treated differently from similar damage elsewhere on the windscreen.
Chips can also develop into cracks, particularly after further impact or exposure to changes in temperature.
If you have noticed a chip, getting it assessed early may help determine whether a repair can be carried out before the damage becomes more serious.
Can You Drive a Car With Windscreen Damage Before the MOT?
Having a valid MOT certificate does not automatically mean a vehicle is safe to drive in every situation.
GOV.UK states that drivers remain responsible for ensuring their vehicle is safe to drive, even if it currently has an MOT certificate. The Highway Code also states that windscreens and windows should be kept clean and free from obstructions to vision.
If windscreen damage is significantly affecting your visibility, you should not simply wait for your MOT date. Arrange a professional assessment and avoid driving the vehicle if doing so would be unsafe.
Should You Repair or Replace the Windscreen Before Your MOT?
If the damage is suitable for repair, a windscreen repair may be all that is required.
However, replacement may be necessary if the damage is:
- Too large to repair
- Spreading or developing into a larger crack
- Located in a critical area
- Affecting the driver’s visibility
- Otherwise unsuitable for safe repair
Windscreen 365 provides both windscreen repair and windscreen replacement, allowing the appropriate solution to be considered based on the actual condition of the glass.
Mobile Windscreen Repair and Replacement Before Your MOT
If your MOT is approaching and you are concerned about windscreen damage, Windscreen 365 can help.
We provide mobile windscreen repair and replacement across London and Berkshire, allowing our technicians to attend a suitable home, workplace or other agreed location.
To help us assess your requirements, send us:
- Your vehicle registration
- Your location
- A photograph of the windscreen
- A brief description of the damage
- Your MOT date, if relevant
We’ll assess the likely requirement and provide a quotation.
Don’t Wait Until Your MOT
If your windscreen has a chip, crack or other damage, it is better to have it assessed before your MOT rather than discovering a potential issue at the test centre.
Early assessment may allow suitable damage to be repaired before it develops further, while more serious damage can be identified and replaced where necessary.
Windscreen 365 provides professional mobile windscreen repair, windscreen replacement and vehicle window replacement across London and Berkshire.
Need Your Windscreen Checked Before Your MOT?
Send us your vehicle registration, location and a photo of the damage to discuss your requirements and request a quotation.
