Chips down for MOTs
Autoglass has revealed that 41,910 UK drivers failed their MOT test in 2021 due to a chipped, cracked or otherwise damaged windscreen, up eight per cent on the previous year.
The information follows a freedom of information request submitted to the Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).
Meanwhile, Autoglass research also found that one in four (25%) UK drivers are unaware that windscreen glass integrity is included in an MOT check, with the maximum damage size for a chip 10mm in the drivers’ line of vision or 40mm elsewhere.
The research also found that loose debris on the road was the most common cause of a chipped or cracked windscreen, with 38% of drivers who experienced damage stating pebbles or road chippings were to blame.
Neil Atherton, sales and marketing director, said: “When it comes to car maintenance, prevention is always better than cure, so any chips spotted in a windscreen should be fixed as soon as possible. If it turns into a crack, not only will it take longer and cost more to replace, but you’ll also run the risk of driving a vehicle illegally.
“With so many drivers looking to book MOTs at the moment, and garages working through backlogs, it’s a good idea to check for chips and get your windscreen fixed before going in for a service. We know getting an MOT can sometimes feel like a chore for drivers, so make sure you get those chips fixed to ensure the process is as quick and painless as possible.”
