Understand MOT shock absorber leakage wording, the difference between light misting and severe leakage, and what a repair may involve.
The DVSA manual distinguishes slight seepage from severe leakage. A thin film of fluid is not automatically a reason for rejection, while a shock absorber that is severely leaking or no longer functioning can fail the MOT.
Shock absorbers control suspension movement and help keep the tyre in contact with the road. Poor damping can affect stability, braking and tyre wear.
A small film of oil can be normal on some dampers, which is why the MOT focuses on significant leakage and function rather than any trace of fluid.
The damper body, mountings, bushes, spring and opposite-side unit should be inspected. Replacement in axle pairs is often considered to maintain balanced damping.
Enter the registration to import the latest DVSA MOT items, or paste the wording, and AutoAid will explain each item separately.
Translate my MOTSee common MOT failures →AutoAid explains MOT wording in plain English, but the tester's recorded defect and a physical inspection take precedence.