Here are some quick checks you can carry out on your vehicle before bringing it in for an MOT - it might mean the difference between a pass and a fail.
Lights
Are all lights working as they should? Walk around your vehicle checking every light; front, rear, headlights and dipped, hazards and indicators.
Suspension
While you can't exactly check the suspension you can see if the shock absorbers have gone by quickly applying your weight to each corner of the car then release. It should settle back quickly, if not it could be a sign that the suspension needs replaced.
Brakes
You can't make a proper check of your vehicle's brakes on your own but if your brakes feel loose and unresponsive, or the handbrake slides up without resistance or can't be set to stop the vehicle, it's likely there's a problem.
Tyres
To check tyre pressure, look up what they should be online, and pump them up at your nearest petrol station. For tyre tread i.e. the depth of grooves for grip, the legal minimum is 1.6mm for a car tyre (enough to let surface water slip through). To measure, pop a 20p coin on its edge into the main grooves of the tyre tread. If the outer rim of the coin is hidden, your tyres should be legal. If you can see it, get them checked and if need be replaced.
Windscreen
Is the windscreen damaged anywhere? Damage in the driver's central view should be no larger than 1cm. It should be no larger than 4cm anywhere on the windscreen. If it is, get it fixed pre-test (often this is included by fully-comprehensive car insurance policies). Front wipers are also in the check. They need to be able to clear the windscreen in conjunction with the washers.
Exhaust
Look for a leaking exhaust. To check this start the engine (in a well-ventilated place, at normal temperature) watch for strange smoke or anything that sounds off. These an indicate a leak, which you can fix before the MOT.
Steering
Again, checking if your steering is working properly isn't too easy for you to check on your own. Watch out for things like the steering feeling less responsive, or have noticed any other issues, it's likely you need to get this looked at. Also check for a warning light.
Fluids
Check the brake fluid, windscreen washer and oil level. Do they need topped up?
Anything Else
Give the car a once over. Check the fuel cap, mirros, seatbetls, chairs, anything else that might present an issue. Is everthing in good working order?
