One In Ten Drivers Never Check Simple Parts On Their Cars.

Recent research by eBay, a prominent UK online marketplace for car parts, indicates that one in ten motorists never inspects their wiper blades for issues, a common cause of failing an MOT. The study revealed that 23% of participants only examine their wiper blades during an MOT or vehicle service, whereas 43% replace them during their annual car inspection.

Alarmingly, 20% of UK drivers are unaware that faulty wiper blades can lead to MOT failures. Nearly half (45%) of Gen Z drivers (aged 18-24) are uninformed about wiper blade checks during MOTs, compared to just 12% of drivers over 65. Additionally, 31% of respondents lack confidence in changing wiper blades, and 42% do not feel confident attempting to do so themselves.

Abir Tewari, the UK Director of Commercial Operations for Parts & Accessories at eBay, highlighted the crucial role of windscreen wipers for visibility during wet weather, pointing out that worn wiper blades can result in MOT failures.

Wiper blades are among eBay’s best-selling vehicle maintenance items, with February seeing the highest sales as drivers prepare for the busy MOT month of March.

Motorists can utilise eBay’s My Garage feature to find the appropriate wiper blades by entering their registration number. eBay is also offering a 10% discount on parts with the code MOT10 from 13th March to 26th March to assist drivers in getting their cars ready for the MOT.