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More than 200,000 cars failed their MOT test due to a £1.99 part that can easily slip "under the radar" in a major blow. According to data from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), analysed by eBay, faulty washer jets were responsible for 216,388 MOT failures in 2025.

This equates to a whopping 592 failures each day last year, suggesting the issue has now become a serious problem. The jets are crucial components in a car's windscreen that spray washer fluid onto the windscreen or rear windscreen. This is used to help the car wiper blades remove dirt, bugs, and grime from the screen and keep visibility clear at all times.

Abir Tewari, UK director of commercial operations, parts and accessories at eBay, said drivers could miss the small part despite its crucial role.

Abir said: "Small and simple parts like washer jets can go under the radar, and motorists should routinely check them as part of their regular vehicle maintenance, especially before longer journeys and the annual MOT test. This vital part caused a significant number of failed MOTs last year, all of which are preventable with a low-cost, simple fix using parts sourced through eBay."

According to eBay, drivers can fix a faulty washer jet for as little as £1.99. However, the part can also be replaced for a nominal fee. A brand new pair of washer jets is likely to cost road users anywhere from £5 to £10 so is by no means bank breaking.

A new poll of 2,000 individuals found that more than a quarter of motorists (26%) didn't know a washer jet could fail their annual safety inspection. The survey found that more than one in 10 (13%) drivers admitted to never checking the condition of their washer jets.

Meanwhile, 21% said they only check the component when they have an MOT or service booked. However, a lack of confidence in fixing the issue could be part of the problem, with two-thirds of car owners (69%) not confident in their ability to replace and fix the washer nozzles by themselves.

Water not reaching the windscreen properly could indicate that the washer jets are broken. The water should also hit the centre of the windscreen, meaning the tool could be misaligned if the water is not hitting the middle of the glass.

Motorists should test their washer jets regularly -especially before an MOT- to avoid failing due to such a simple system.