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An MOT test is an inspection that is required by law on all vehicles in the UK that are older than 3 years, so driving without an MOT could see you fined. The test follows strict guidelines that are set out by the DVSA to determine whether your car is fit for purpose and in a roadworthy condition. A broad range of vehicle safety checks must be completed by an MOT garage with DVSA approved examiners, these include lights, tyres, seatbelts and emissions.
Our standard MOT cost is £54.85, dropping to just £39.99 when combined with any servicing work.
During the MOT test, we will conduct an inspection to ensure the vehicle is in roadworthy condition. Combine your MOT in Orpington with a comprehensive Vehicle Health Check or opt for a service if it is due.
If the vehicle passes its MOT, we will provide you with a test certificate. We will also inform you of any minor items that will require attention in the near future. As a family-run business, we promise to always give you practical advice. Check out our post on the difference between an MOT and a Service.
Over a million vehicles fail their MOT due to simple things such as faulty bulbs, too little tyre tread, or even no windscreen washer fluid. It is possible to anticipate most of these issues with a little check of your car, see our MOT Checklist.
1. Headlights and indicators
Check that all of your car's lights function properly - headlights, sidelights, rear lights, hazard lights and indicators.
2. Brake lights
Press the brake pedal and ask a friend or family member to check that the rear brake lights come on, including any strip lights.
3. Number plate
4. Wheels and Tyres
Check that the wheels and tyres are undamaged. The minimum legal tyre tread depth is 1.6mm and any tyres with less than this will fail an MOT. It is recommended that tyres are changed when the tread reaches 3mm.
5. Seats and Seatbelts
The driver's seat should adjust forwards and backwards and all seatbelts should be in good working order. Test movement of the seat and tug sharply on all seat belts to check they react as they are supposed to if you brake suddenly.
6. Windscreen
Check the view out of the front of the car for damage - any cracks greater than 40mm will cause a fail, as will any damage larger than 10mm in the area of the windscreen in front of the driver.
7. Windscreen Wipers
Make sure your wipers are able to keep your windscreen clean - any tears or holes in the rubber can be an MOT fail.
8. Screenwash
Top up the washer bottle before taking the car in for an MOT - something as simple as an empty container can cause an MOT to fail.
9. Horn
Give the horn a blast - if it doesn't work, it will need to be repaired.
10. Fuel and Engine Oil
Make sure your car is filled with enough fuel and engine oil - you can be turned away from the MOT without sufficient levels of either as both are required to run the vehicle to test emission levels.
An MOT can be carried out in around an hour. That means most customers wait in our comfortable Business Lounge, which has complimentary WiFi and drinks. An MOT only checks against minimum standards. As standard, we provide a more comprehensive Vehicle Health Check once the MOT is completed, so you have a clearer picture of your car's health, so you can plan ahead. Is the MOT Extension scheme still in effect?
Our MOT station in Orpington has 13 service ramps and diagnostic tools, we can service, maintain and repair all popular makes and models. With dealer trained technicians, we offer all the advantages of a main dealer, without the cost! We service over 1,500 cars every year, trusted within the Orpington community as leading experts when it comes to servicing prestige cars.
Yes. An MOT test is an inspection that is required by law on all vehicles in the UK that are older than 3 years.
Your MOT will expire 12 months after the date of the previous MOT or three years from the date of registration you will need to get your first MOT.
Around an hour, these can be carried out as a while you wait appointment or booked in conjunction with a service.
You will need an MOT every year, its best to book it in a few weeks before it is due to expire due to lead times.
Want to make a booking? Use our contact form to let us know when you'd like to get booked in, and whether you believe any additional work is needed.
Remember, our Orpington based Service Centre has a modern Business Lounge, allowing you to work in comfort whilst your MOT is being carried out. With free WiFi and complimentary drinks, no wonder we get so many great reviews!