EXPERT IN AUTO PARTS
12 September 2025 (updated) Table of Contents
Yes, a car can fail its MOT test due to faulty or worn wiper blades. Front windscreen wipers are inspected as part of the MOT and must adequately clear the windscreen to ensure your driver's field of vision remains unobstructed for safe driving. While rear windscreen wiper blades aren't always mandatory for MOT testing, they can cause failures in specific cases if fitted and not working properly.
The MOT test includes a thorough check of your vehicle's windscreen wipers to make sure they provide clear visibility. Testers examine both the condition of the wiper blades themselves and their effectiveness at cleaning your windscreen. This inspection focuses on whether the wipers can properly clear water, dirt, and debris from your driver's field of vision.
Front wiper blades must be securely attached to the wiper arms and show no signs of damage that would affect their performance. The rubber should be intact without cracks, tears, or hardening that could result in streaking or poor contact with the windscreen surface. Additionally, your vehicle needs adequate screenwash fluid - insufficient levels can cause an automatic MOT failure regardless of blade condition.
Several specific problems with wiper blades can result in mot failures during your test. Understanding these issues helps you prepare your vehicle and avoid disappointment on test day.
Consider replacing the rubber on windshield wipers or replace the wiper arm.
Professional Tip from AUTODOC Mechanics: Replace wiper blades every 12-18 months, even if they look fine. Rubber deteriorates over time due to UV exposure and temperature changes, affecting performance before visible damage appears.
BOSCH Rear wiper blade
330 mm, Flat wiper blade
Article number: 3 397 016 507
£ 8,74
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
Article number: 132000
£ 32,07
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
BOSCH Rear wiper blade
300 mm, Flat wiper blade
Article number: 3 397 016 513
£ 9,63
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
BOSCH Wiper blade
1000 mm, Standard
Article number: 3 397 018 199
£ 27,77
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
-41%
VAICO Wiper Arm Set, window cleaning
with cap, with integrated wiper blade, EXPERT KITS +
Article number: V10-3463
compared to
RRP
£ 54,98
£ 31,95
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
The MOT test treats front and rear wipers differently, which is important to understand when preparing your vehicle.
| Wiper Position | MOT Requirement | Failure Risk | Key Checks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Front wipers | Always tested | High | Condition, effectiveness, secure attachment |
| Rear wiper | Sometimes tested | Medium | Only if factory-fitted and safety-critical |
| Screenwash | Always tested | High | Adequate fluid level and function |
Front windscreen wipers face the strictest MOT requirements because they're essential for the driver's safety. The test ensures these blades can effectively clear your view of the road ahead. Any damage or poor performance in this area will cause your vehicle to fail.
Rear wiper blades aren't routinely part of the MOT inspection for most vehicles. However, if your car came with a rear wiper as standard equipment and it's considered necessary for safe operation, a faulty rear wiper could result in failure. This typically applies to vehicles where rear visibility through mirrors alone isn't sufficient.
During the MOT test, examiners follow a systematic process to assess your wiper blades and related systems. They'll first inspect the physical condition of the rubber and metal components, looking for any obvious damage or wear.
The tester will then operate the wipers to check their function. This includes testing different speed settings if available and ensuring the blades move smoothly across the entire windscreen area. They'll also check that the screenwash system works properly, as this is equally important for maintaining clear vision.
Getting ready for your MOT test means checking your wiper blades well in advance. This gives you time to address any issues and ensures you won't face unexpected mot failures on test day.
Start by examining the rubber part of each blade for cracks, tears, or hardening. Run your finger along the edge - it should feel smooth and flexible. Look at the metal frame for rust, bends, or loose connections that might affect performance. If you need guidance on inspection techniques, learn the best way to clean car wiper blades properly to maintain their condition.
Test your wipers on a clean, wet windscreen. They should move smoothly without chattering, jumping, or leaving streaks. If you notice any problems, replacement is usually the most effective solution.
Cost-Saving Tip: Consider purchasing quality windscreen wiper blades from reputable suppliers. Investing in good quality blades reduces the frequency of replacement and provides better long-term value for MOT compliance.
The MOT test has specific criteria for wiper blade failures, and understanding these helps you know what to expect. A vehicle will fail if the wiper blades cannot adequately clear the driver's field of vision or if there are safety-related defects.
Common failure scenarios include blades that leave significant streaking, don't make proper contact with the windscreen, or have damaged rubber that creates gaps in clearing. Missing or completely ineffective blades will always result in failure, as will insufficient screenwash fluid.
| Failure Type | Severity | Description | Action Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Major defect | Automatic fail | Damaged/missing front wipers | Immediate replacement |
| Minor defect | Advisory | Slight wear, future concern | Monitor and plan replacement |
| Dangerous defect | Automatic fail | Complete wiper system failure | Emergency repair needed |
Understanding different types of wiper blades can help you choose the right replacement when needed. Some blade types perform better in certain conditions and may last longer, reducing the risk of future MOT issues.
When you need new wiper blades before your MOT, you have several options depending on your budget and vehicle requirements. Standard replacement blades typically cost between £10-30 per pair, while premium options with advanced rubber compounds may cost more but last longer.
Research shows that the best rated wiper blades often provide better value over time due to their superior performance and longer lifespan. The number one priority should be ensuring your blades work effectively rather than choosing the cheapest option. Poor-quality blades might pass the initial MOT but could fail prematurely, requiring another replacement sooner than expected.
Many drivers find that learning how to change wiper blades themselves saves money and ensures timely replacement before MOT tests.
| Blade Type | Price Range | Lifespan | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic rubber | £8-15 | 6-12 months | Budget-conscious drivers |
| Premium rubber | £15-25 | 12-18 months | Regular use |
| Silicone blades | £20-35 | 18-24 months | Long-term value |
BOSCH Rear wiper blade
280 mm, Flat wiper blade
Article number: 3 397 016 506
£ 8,25
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
BOSCH Wiper blade
650 mm Front, Standard
Article number: 3 397 005 808
£ 24,66
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
BOSCH Rear wiper blade
240 mm, Flat wiper blade
Article number: 3 397 016 512
£ 8,94
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
Article number: 577930
£ 21,66
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
BOSCH Wiper blade
600, 475 mm, Beam
Article number: 3 397 007 620
£ 23,26
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
Regular maintenance keeps your wiper blades in good condition and reduces the risk of MOT failures. Simple steps like cleaning the rubber edges and checking for damage can significantly extend blade life and maintain performance.
Keep your windscreen clean to reduce wear on the wiper blades. Dirt and debris act like sandpaper, gradually wearing down the rubber surface. Use proper screenwash fluid rather than plain water, as it contains lubricants that help the blades glide smoothly.
If you're experiencing issues like noisy wiper blades, address them promptly as they often indicate wear that could lead to MOT failure. Similarly, if your blades are not cleaning properly, investigate the cause rather than waiting until your next MOT test.
Sometimes new blades don't perform as expected, which can be frustrating when preparing for MOT. New wiper blades juddering is a common problem that usually indicates incorrect fitting or poor-quality parts.
Before your MOT test, ensure your replacement blades are working smoothly. If you experience problems after fitting new blades, check the installation and consider consulting professional guidance or replacing with higher-quality alternatives.
Remember that proper preparation and maintenance of your wiper blades not only helps you pass your MOT but also ensures safe driving in all weather conditions throughout the year.
Yes, driving with non-functioning wipers is illegal and dangerous. UK traffic law requires working windscreen wipers for safe visibility. Police can issue penalties for driving without adequate view of the road, and it's enough reason for immediate vehicle prohibition.
Lighting defects top the list of MOT failures, followed by suspension, brakes, and tyres. However, wiper blade failures are also common due to worn rubber, streaking, or inadequate screenwash fluid levels affecting driver visibility and safety.
Rear wipers can cause MOT failure if fitted as standard equipment but not working properly. While not always tested, faulty rear wiper blades may fail inspection if deemed necessary for safe rear visibility on your vehicle.
Rear wipers aren't legally required on all vehicles. Cars with adequate rear visibility through mirrors don't need them. However, if your vehicle came with a rear wiper as standard equipment, it should work properly enough to pass MOT inspection.
BOSCH Rear wiper blade
280 mm, Beam
BOSCH Wiper blade
500 mm Front, Standard
BOSCH Rear wiper blade
300 mm, Flat wiper blade
BOSCH Wiper blade
600, 500 mm, Beam
ABAKUS Wiper Arm Set, window cleaning
with cap, with integrated wiper blade
SWF Wiper blade
650, 450 mm Front, Beam, with spoiler
VALEO Rear wiper blade
210 mm
BOSCH Wiper blade
550 mm, Beam
BOSCH Rear wiper blade
380 mm, Beam
DENSO Wiper blade
500 mm, Hybrid Wiper Blade