The NCT can be a pain at the best of times but it can be especially annoying when you fail the test and then have to come back.

                                    

But there are a few things you can do yourself to prevent the chances of this happening...

1. Clean your car out including all of your personal belongings. Make sure your lights, windows and mirrors are clean and undamaged. Wash under the car as well. If you are worried about doing this yourself, take it to a car wash and ask them to do it. Remove all belongings as these only get in the tester's way. If you have a child seat in the car, remove it or make sure it is fitted correctly.

2. Check your lights. Replace blown bulbs and check headlight alignment. All of your lights must be working including fog lights, brake lights, dipped headlights and indicators. If one of them isn't working, get it fixed. It's cheaper and easier than having to repeat your NCT.

3. Your tyres also have to be up to scratch in terms of their pressure (this will be in your vehicle handbook) and tread (at least 1.6mm). If any part of your tyre is damaged, get it checked out.

4. Top up all fluids including brake fluid, oil and windscreen wash. If you have any warning signs on your dashboard or have had any problems, for example your steering has been pulling to one side, also get this looked at.

5. Arrive to the test with plenty of time. Bring your car documentation (registration book, registration certificate and licensing certificate) along with a means of payment.

Check back here for weekly driving tips, with thanks to MSL Ballsbridge