Door won't open or close properly
How it can appear on an MOT certificate
- “Door will not open using the relevant control”
- “Door does not latch securely in the closed position”
What it is
The MOT checks the front doors open from inside and outside and that doors latch securely.
Why it matters
A door that won't open could trap someone in an emergency; one that doesn't latch could open while driving.
What to check when viewing a car
Open and close every door from inside and outside, and check each one latches firmly.
Has the car you're looking at had this before?
Free: every MOT, every defect explained in plain English, mileage, tax and ULEZ.
What the MOT categories mean
- Dangerous
- A direct and immediate risk to road safety, or a serious impact on the environment. The car fails and shouldn't be driven until it's repaired.
- Major
- It may affect the car's safety, put other road users at risk or harm the environment. The car fails and should be repaired straight away.
- Minor
- No significant effect on safety or the environment. The car passes, but it should be repaired as soon as possible.
- Advisory
- Something to keep an eye on that could need repairing in future. The car passes.
Related: body and structure
- Excessive corrosion of the structure
- Corrosion near a suspension or brake mounting
- Body panel damaged with sharp edges
Buying a used car?
General information about this type of MOT defect, not advice about a particular car. How serious it is depends on the car; have any car you're buying inspected by a qualified mechanic.