Drivers may fail their MOT test by forgetting to remove one simple thing before their exam, according to a top mechanic.
Leaving things hanging over a rear view mirror could catch motorists out in what has been branded the “stupidest reason’ to not secure an MOT pass.
Experts warn this could become a distraction for road users or block their vision of the road which could force examiners to reject a vehicle.
It could be a blow for drivers who will not be legally allowed to use the vehicle until it passes another test.
The revelation was made by Eurofit Autocentres on TikTok after they were asked to explain the most bizarre reason cars could fail.
A mechanic working for the garage explained: “Right, the silliest reason a car will fail its MOT is you know when you have stuff hanging from your rear view mirror.
“Sometimes you have just one air freshener but some people have quite a lot of things hanging from there
“And as you’re turning it can sway into your vision. That would fail an MOT, silly little things like that. Remove them.”
One motorist commenting on the video admitted they had been affected by this in the past.
@holz896 said: “My car failed on the air freshener, the tester then moved it and passed it straight after.”
Eurofit Autocentres replied: “Always worth just taking them off before your test.”
@Yusuf_Khan 675 added: “Thought you’d say that! Mine failed cause of that.”
TikTok user @iamzeshani also commented: “Mine failed it because of that.”
Late last year, motoring experts at cinch warned the popular accessory could come back to bite motorists.
They suggested installing extras like air fresheners out of the way to make sure they do not interfere when behind the wheel.
Sam Smith, spokesperson for the car buying firm explained: “If not placed correctly, air fresheners can obstruct the driver’s view and interfere with the functionality of the airbags in the event of an accident.
“Motorists should always have a clear view of the road ahead, so dangling this perfumed accessory from your windscreen or rear-view mirror can hinder your visibility.
“To keep yourself safe en-route and improve your chances of success at the next MOT, mount your air freshener where it’s out of your vision, whether on the car’s dash tray or middle air vent.”
