A valid MOT does not guarantee a vehicle is roadworthy all year.
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) is urging motorists to check their vehicles regularly rather than wait for their next test.
An MOT checks important parts of a vehicle against legal standards, but a certificate does not guarantee it will remain roadworthy until the next test.
Grant Thunder, DVSA MOT service manager, said: “Driving an unroadworthy vehicle puts you and other road users at risk.
“Don’t wait for the next MOT to act on a problem.
“If you are unsure, ask an experienced garage or mechanic for advice.”
The agency said drivers should not ignore warning lights, unusual smells or changes in the way their vehicle brakes or handles.
A qualified garage or mechanic can assess a problem and advise on repairs.
MOT testers have shared examples of defects, including a badly damaged tyre and a suspension arm that was almost rusted through.
The DVSA advises drivers to check tyre condition and pressures against the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Windows and mirrors should be kept clear, while lights, demisters, wipers and washers should be checked to make sure they work.
Motorists should also check fluid levels, maintain the battery and make sure suitable antifreeze and screenwash protection are in place.
The agency recommends following the manufacturer’s servicing schedule and acting promptly on MOT advisories.
GOV.UK says a vehicle that passes its MOT may still have minor or advisory problems to monitor or fix.
How you can avoid MOT fines
Find out when your MOT is due
As soon as your car hits three years-old, it will need an MOT before its birthday each year.
You can easily check when your MOT is due using your number plate on GOV.UK.
You can undertake your MOT test up to a month (minus a day) before its expiry date while still preserving its annual due date.
Set up a reminder
Simply set a reminder on your email calendar - or in Great Britain, you can sign up online to get a free text or email reminder one month before your vehicle’s MOT is due.
In Northern Ireland you’ll get a letter in the post seven weeks before your MOT is due.
Create a car contingency account
Cars are expensive – there’s no denying that – and MOTs can throw up unexpected repair costs in order to pass.
It’s a good idea to set up a car contingency savings account; putting aside a little each month to spread the costs and make sure you can afford any unexpected nasty surprises.
Shop around for your MOT
Just as you should shop around for a cheaper premium on your car insurance, you can also compare prices for your MOT.
The maximum price of an MOT is £54.85 for a car and £29.65 for a standard motorcycle.
But many garages will offer it cheaper than this – especially if bought in conjunction with your regular servicing.
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