You're a UK driver, and let's face it, keeping your car in tip-top condition isn't always straightforward or cheap. With the total number of vehicles on British roads hitting a record 42.5 million in 2025, and cars making up over 36.6 million of those, our roads are busier than ever. Keeping those vehicles running smoothly is a big concern for millions.

We all want to avoid unexpected breakdowns, costly garage bills, and the dreaded MOT failure. But with vehicle repair costs steadily climbing – the average repair cost for the UK's 10 most popular vehicles increased by approximately 20% in 2024 compared to 2023 – finding

Most Common MOT Failure Items in the UK (2024) Most Common MOT Failure Items in the UK (2024). Lighting: 25.8, Suspension: 20.9, Brakes: 12.2, Wipers & Glass: 12.7, Tyres: 11, Steering: 4.9. Source: DVSA (via Vertex AI Search, 2024 data) Most Common MOT Failure Items in the UK (2024) Lighting 25.8% Suspension 20.9% Brakes 12.2% Wipers & Glass 12.7% Tyres 11% Steering 4.9% Source: DVSA (via Vertex AI Search, 2024 data)

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an OBD2 scanner or a diagnostic app for my car?

A diagnostic app or OBD2 scanner can help UK drivers understand their car's health, diagnose warning lights, and even prepare for their MOT, potentially saving money on garage visits. While some apps require a physical scanner, others like Carvy work solely from your smartphone.

Can car diagnostic apps help me pass my MOT?

Yes, diagnostic apps can help identify potential issues that might cause an MOT failure, such as illuminated warning lights, faulty emissions, or problems with brakes and suspension, allowing you to address them before the test. Carvy, for example, offers MOT history lookup and advisory cross-referencing.

How accurate are car diagnostic apps?

The accuracy of car diagnostic apps varies. Apps like Carvy use AI to interpret data from your vehicle's systems, providing plain English explanations and potential solutions. More advanced apps can read specific fault codes and live data, offering insights often with high accuracy for engine-related issues.