Drivers will likely fail their MOT test by making one upgrade to their car in 2024, according to experts at cinch.
Changing the sound of a car horn seems like a harmless alteration and could liven up daily trips.
However, strict laws could see road users caught out when they head to a garage for their yearly exam.
Motoring regulations state vehicles just produce a “uniform sound” with certain noises not making the grade.
Vehicle owners are unable to freely drive without a valid MOT certificate in place.
Sam Sheehan, motoring editor at cinch said: “Car horns are a crucial safety feature, alerting fellow drivers and pedestrians to your presence and whereabouts.
“This means that your horn must always work properly and emit an appropriate warning sound as you cruise around town. If not, you’re likely to receive a failed MOT certificate.
“Laws about car horns in the UK are clearly defined – they must produce a uniform sound that can be heard from afar without deafening or disturbing other road users.
“Specifically, The Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986 states that no car must be equipped with a gong, bell, siren or two-tone horn.
“So, if the sound of your horn doesn’t meet the right requirements, your vehicle will fail its MOT.”
Premium auto centre, Motorserv has also warned motorists could “run into trouble” through upgrading their vehicles.
They have confirmed testers will check that a car horn is working and appropriate in every test meaning road users will not get away with trying to hide the function.
Novelty noises will not pass meaning road users should stick to something more conventional if they want something different.
They explained: “This means that while car horn adaption is legal in the UK, the options are strictly limited.
“Car horns must sound like what they are – car horns – so as to be easily recognisable by other drivers.
“So, while it might be fun to change your car horn to replicate the sound of Santa’s sleigh, you likely won’t pass your MOT for it.”
