Don’t let a Steering MOT Failure be the reason you fail—keep your steering system in top condition to stay safe and road-ready!
Every year, thousands of vehicles across the UK fail their MOT for steering-related issues — many of which could have been avoided with early diagnosis and cost-effective repair preventing a Steering MOT Failure.
At Cooper Steering, we help drivers and trade garages fix common Steering MOT Failure fast. In this blog, we’ll cover:
- The most common steering problems flagged during MOTs
- Why they lead to a fail
- What you can do to fix them affordably
- How to avoid steering issues in the future
Let’s dive in.
🧰 Why Steering Issues Matter in an MOT
The MOT test is designed to ensure vehicles are safe and roadworthy. Because the steering system controls the direction of the car, any fault here is taken very seriously.
Even a minor leak or small amount of play in the rack can result in an MOT failure — especially if it’s judged to affect the car’s handling or safety.
❌ Top Steering Problems That Cause MOT Fails
Here are the most common steering-related faults MOT inspectors look out for — all of which could leave you with a dreaded red mark on your report:
1. Fluid Leaks from the Steering Rack
A leaking steering rack is one of the most common fail points.
- Why it fails: Leaks can reduce hydraulic pressure in power steering systems, resulting in heavier steering and reduced control. Leaked fluid can also contaminate brake components or rubber bushes.
- Where it leaks from: Rack seals, pipe fittings, or torn dust boots.
Solution: Cooper Steering offers refurbishment from just £120, which includes full seal replacement and leak testing.
2. Excessive Play in the Steering
This refers to movement in the steering wheel that doesn’t correspond with movement in the wheels.
- Why it fails: It suggests loose or worn internal components in the steering rack or column. It can make the car unpredictable when driving.
- Common cause: Worn bushings, pinion wear, or play in the track rods.
Solution: Our refurbishment process restores tight, responsive steering by replacing all worn components.
3. Split or Torn Steering Rack Boots (Gaiters)
These rubber boots protect the inner workings of the rack from dirt, water, and salt.
- Why it fails: A torn gaiter exposes the inner rack to contamination, which leads to premature failure.
- How it’s spotted: MOT testers will visually inspect for splits, leaks, or signs of perishing.
Solution: We fit brand-new boots during every refurbishment — ensuring long-term protection.
4. Power Steering Not Functioning Properly
If the steering feels excessively heavy, even at low speeds, your power steering system may be compromised.
- Why it fails: This affects vehicle control and can be dangerous in emergency manoeuvres.
- Possible causes: Loss of hydraulic pressure, pump failure, or internal rack blockage.
Solution: Our rack testing replicates real-world driving pressures to identify and correct internal faults.
5. Knocking or Clunking While Steering
Audible noises while turning or hitting bumps can signal mechanical problems inside the rack.
- Why it fails: This could point to wear in internal components or joints, which risks steering failure.
- Inspector checks: MOT testers often carry out a “dry steer” test while the car is stationary to listen for knocking sounds.
Solution: Our complete refurbishment replaces worn internal mechanisms and ensures silent, smooth performance.
🧪 What Will the MOT Tester Look For?
During the MOT, testers will inspect the steering system for:
- Fluid leaks
- Free play in the steering wheel
- Unusual noises
- Steering effort (too heavy or too light)
- Security and condition of the rack, column, and mounts
- Condition of steering rack boots
If anything compromises safety or performance, you’ll receive a fail.
🛠️ The Cooper Steering Advantage
Failed your MOT on a steering fault? Or want to fix an issue before your test? We’ve got you covered.
1-Refurbished steering racks from just £120
2-Fast 2-day turnaround
3-month warranty
4-Postal & drop-off service
5-Used by garages and private customers across the UK
We can refurbish your original rack to pass inspection and get you safely back on the road.
⏱️ Postal or Drop-Off – You Choose
- 🚚 Post your rack to us — we’ll turn it around in 2 working days
- 🧰 Drop it off at our Saltney, Chester workshop
- 📦 We send it back fully reconditioned, tested, and ready to install
It’s hassle-free, fast, and MOT-friendly.
🚘 MOT Advisory? Don’t Wait
Even if you’ve only had a minor steering advisory on your MOT, it’s smart to act now. Early intervention can prevent:
- Major steering failure
- Additional wear on other components
- Higher repair costs later
- Failing your next MOT altogether
We’re here to help before things get worse — and more expensive.
📞 Get In Touch with Cooper Steering
If your MOT has flagged a steering fault-Steering MOT Failure — or you’re preparing for a test — contact us today. We’ll provide expert advice and affordable solutions tailored to your vehicle.
- 📞 Call: 07541 732098
- 📧 Email: info@coopersteering.co.uk
- 🌐 Visit: www.coopersteering.co.uk
Let’s get your car MOT-ready — the right way.
