During the MOT test, we will conduct a comprehensive inspection to ensure the vehicle is in roadworthy condition. However, it is not the same as having your vehicle serviced and the MOT does not check the general mechanical condition of the vehicle. Also, the assessment is based on the condition of the vehicle on the day.
If the vehicle passes, 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.
How can I help my car pass its MOT?
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.
1. Headlights and indicators
Check that all of your car's lights function properly - deadlights, sidelights, rear lights, hazard lights and indicators.
2. Brake lights
Press the brake pedal and ask a friend to check that the rear brake lights come on, including any strip lights.
3. Number plate
Make sure the number plate is clean and legible - even a quick wipe with a cloth can make all the difference.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 drivers 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 damage larger 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 at 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.
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.
An MOT test is an inspection that is required by law on all vehicles in the UK that are older than 3 years. 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. Book your MOT test today!