Fuel leak
How it can appear on an MOT certificate
- “Fuel leak”
- “Fuel system leaking”
What it is
Fuel leaking from the tank, pipes, filler or engine fuel system.
Why it matters
A fuel leak is a fire risk. Any leak needs fixing before the car is driven.
What to check when viewing a car
Smell for fuel around the car and look for drips or wet patches under the tank and engine.
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: seat belts, warning lights and other checks
- Seat belt damaged or not working
- Airbag (SRS) warning light on
- Horn not working
- Oil leak
- Drive shaft CV boot split or damaged
- Battery insecure or leaking
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.