It's that time of year for many of us – the dreaded MOT test! The E46, while generally robust, has some common areas that can catch us out. This thread is to share our UK MOT experiences, common fail points, and pre-MOT check routines.
Let's Compile a Checklist & Share Wisdom:
- Common E46 MOT Failures:
- Rust: Where are testers particularly looking on an E46 (sills, jacking points, subframe mounts, brake pipe corrosion)?
- Suspension Components: Worn bushings (especially front control arm / "lollipop" bushes, rear trailing arm bushes), ball joints, leaking shock absorbers.
- Brakes: Worn discs/pads, binding calipers, corroded brake lines, handbrake inefficiency.
- Lights: Headlight aim, blown bulbs (don't forget number plate lights!), warning lights on dash (ABS, airbag).
- Tyres: Tread depth, condition of sidewalls.
- Emissions (Petrol & Diesel): Any common E46 issues leading to emissions fails? (e.g., lambda sensor faults, CAT issues, diesel smoke).
- Steering Play: Inner/outer track rod ends.
- Windscreen & Wipers: Chips/cracks in line of sight, worn wiper blades.
- Your Pre-MOT Check Routine: What do you always check on your E46 before submitting it for an MOT to avoid a silly fail?
- Advisories: What common advisories do E46s pick up?
- Experiences with specific MOT stations: (Without naming and shaming specific businesses not allowed by forum rules) any general advice on finding a fair tester?
- Cost of re-tests / typical repair costs for common E46 MOT failures in the UK?
Please mention your E46 model, year, and the outcome of your recent MOTs if comfortable.
