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Wednesday 5th August 2026

Yes, emissions can fail your MOT if they exceed the legal limits for your vehicle. An emissions fail is always a major fault, so you cannot legally drive the car away until it passes a retest, except to a pre-booked repair. If your vehicle is emitting thick black smoke it will be classified as dange... Read More

Will my exhaust fail my MOT?

Thursday 30th July 2026

Yes, your exhaust can fail an MOT test if it has a major fault such as a serious leak, doesn’t fit properly, lets fumes into the cabin, is too noisy or fails the  emissions test. Less serious issues, such as early signs of corrosion or a leak that has not yet reached the tailpipe are more likely to... Read More

Will a cracked windscreen fail an MOT?

Wednesday 29th July 2026

Yes, a cracked windscreen can fail your MOT. But it depends on the size of the damage and exactly what part of the glass the crack or chip appears on. A chip as small as 10 mm could fail the test if it falls directly in the driver's line of sight, whereas damage up to 40 mm is allowed almost anywher... Read More

What to do if you lose your car keys

Wednesday 15th July 2026

Losing your car keys can be a stressful moment, but the immediate steps you take afterwards matter most. Check your home, contact places you’ve visited and retrace your steps. If you need a replacement, arrange one through your dealership, locksmith or your car insurance. Most cars can be driven wit... Read More

Will my tyres fail my MOT?

Tuesday 14th July 2026

A record 2.15 million vehicles failed their MOT due to tyre defects in the last year, making them one of the most common reasons for MOT failure. Our guide will explain each reason a tyre could fail, what counts as a minor advisory, and what you need to check before you book your test. What tyre cr... Read More

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Formula One Autocentres are a family owned company providing value, care and service locally for over 50 years
PROVIDING VALUE,
CARE & SERVICE
LOCALLY
FOR OVER 50 YEARS

What people are saying about us...

  • The Tek gentlemen I spoke with to change my rear tyres were very polite and had my tyre change done in a professional manner. The waiting room was very clean and I will certainly order tyres from F1 auto centres again.

    - Greg, Swansea - Jan 5, 2026
  • I find the staff helpful , knowledgeable and honest . Good value and good service all round.

    - Stevenage (Boulton Road) - Jan 5, 2026
  • I have been going to your Brentwood branch for years! Best staff and service thank you!!

    - Brentwood - Jan 4, 2026
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