No, you generally cannot legally drive a car that has failed its MOT (Ministry of Transport test) home if the failure is due to a "dangerous" defect. In the UK, where the MOT is mandatory, a failure results in a refusal of an MOT certificate. Driving a car deemed "dangerous" is illegal and can result in a fine, points on your license, or even having the car impounded. The only potential exception is if you are driving to a pre-booked repair appointment, but this is a grey area and the car must still be roadworthy.
The MOT test categorizes defects as Dangerous, Major, or Minor. A 'Dangerous' fault means the vehicle should not be driven until it's repaired. A 'Major' fault is also a failure, and while it might not be immediately illegal to drive away, it's a significant risk. The key factor is whether the car is actually roadworthy according to the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations.
Common MOT Failures and Their Implications:
| MOT Failure Category | Example Defects | Is Driving It Home Legal/Risky? |
|---|
| Dangerous | Bald tires, faulty brakes, structural corrosion | Illegal. Do not drive. |
| Major | Exhaust emissions exceed limits, broken headlight | High risk & likely illegal. Strongly advise against driving. |
| Minor | License plate light out, worn but legal tires | Likely legal, but must be repaired. |
Your safest and most legally sound options are to have the car repaired at the test center if they offer the service, or to arrange for a tow. Many recovery services are included in insurance policies or roadside assistance memberships. Attempting to drive a failed car, especially with critical safety defects, puts you, your passengers, and other road users at serious risk. The potential cost of a tow is insignificant compared to the fines, insurance implications, or the cost of causing an accident.
