MOT failure · RFR #32017
The aim of a headlamp is not within limits laid down in the requirements
Total
339,491
Models
318
Models most at risk.
Ranked by rate, not raw volume. A Fiesta shows every failure a lot because there are a lot of Fiestas. Rate = share of that model's own MOTs.
Failure match · your reg
Does this failure affect your car?
Enter your reg and we'll check whether your model appears on the affected list — and where it ranks.
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- 01 Daewoo Matiz 7.56%
- 02 Ford Focus C Max 6.93%
- 03 Mitsubishi Space Star 5.73%
- 04 Citroen C15 5.50%
- 05 Chrysler PT Cruiser 5.33%
- 06 Smart (mcc) City Coupe 5.20%
- 07 Talbot Express 4.91%
- 08 Chevrolet Kalos 4.77%
- 09 Mitsubishi Grandis 4.76%
- 10 Mitsubishi Carisma 4.70%
- 11 Fiat Stilo 4.58%
- 12 Honda Accord 4.43%
- 13 Rover 75 4.36%
- 14 Talbot Express 1300 P 4.32%
- 15 Smart (mcc) City Cabriolet 4.17%
- 16 Nissan Primera 4.02%
- 17 Fiat Doblo Cargo 3.98%
- 18 Chevrolet Lacetti 3.86%
- 19 Isuzu TF 3.83%
- 20 Toyota Previa 3.82%
- 21 Volkswagen Bora 3.77%
- 22 Peugeot 307 3.75%
- 23 Volvo S70 3.73%
- 24 Volkswagen Lupo 3.72%
- 25 Talbot Express 1300 D 3.66%
- 26 Mitsubishi Colt 3.65%
- 27 Vauxhall Vectra 3.64%
- 28 Renault Modus 3.63%
- 29 Lexus Is220 3.58%
- 30 Peugeot 406 3.57%
Top 30 by rate. 288 more models also logged this defect.
Typical UK garage cost
£10–£80
for headlamp aim / lens restoration. Range covers regional rate spread + part-quality variance. Open the estimator →
Pre-empt this fail · Amazon UK
Headlight restoration kit
Yellowed lenses fail the light-output test. A restoration kit lifts the haze in an afternoon for £20.
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Frequently asked.
- Why does the aim of a headlamp is… fail an MOT?
- The aim of a headlamp is not within limits laid down in the requirements. Most commonly flagged on the Daewoo Matiz. UK MOT standards require this item to meet minimum safety thresholds — when it falls short, the tester logs it as a Major or Dangerous defect and the car fails outright.
- How much does it cost to fix the aim of a headlamp is…?
- Typical UK garage cost for headlamp aim / lens restoration is £10–£80. The range reflects regional labour rate differences and part-quality choices. Main dealer rates are usually 30–50% higher.
- Can I fix the aim of a headlamp is… myself?
- Many owners handle this with basic tools. The parts or products listed above are commonly used for this repair. Check your vehicle handbook and confirm the fix clears the defect before booking a retest.
My Motor World · affiliate
Parts & supplies for this fix
Affiliate links — small commission, no extra cost to you.
Bosch
Bosch W5W 12V Longlife Daytime Performance Upgrade Car Multi-Fit Bulbs Twin Pack
£2.19
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Bosch C5W 12V 5W Pure Light Car Licence Plate Bulbs Twin Pack
£3.29
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Bosch 10W 12V Pure Light Car Interior Bulbs Twin Pack
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Bosch P21/5W 12V Pure Light Car Multi-Fit Bulbs Twin Pack
£3.29
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