MOT | 

MOT TEST|  Checklist

You must keep any vehicles driven on the road in a roadworthy condition. The term ‘roadworthy’, refers to whether or not a vehicle is deemed,  fit and appropriate to be used on the road, following certain safety and performance guidelines.

The MOT test checks that your vehicle meets road safety and environmental standards. It isn’t the same as having your vehicle serviced and doesn’t check its general mechanical condition.

However, although the “MOT test determines the car’s roadworthiness”, deeming it with either a Pass or Fail, it cannot anticipate the roadworthiness of the vehicle for the duration of the MOT certificate.  This means that, although your MOT may not be due for another 12 months, it’s important to keep on top of your car maintenance to sustain the roadworthiness of your vehicle.

FAQ| How Often Must I Have MOT Test?

You must get an MOT test every year once your vehicle is 3 years old (or 1 year old in some cases). You can then renew your MOT up to a month before it expires. The earliest date you can get your vehicle tested is printed on the pass certificate.

MoT Test Under the VOSA requirements a MoT test will check the following components before issuing a MoT certificate. During an MoT  the components below are tested :

Vehicle Identification Number

With the Vehicle Identification Number  the MoT tester checks that the Vehicle Identification Number commonly referred to as the VIN is legibly displayed on the vehicle.

Registration plate

With the Registration plate the MoT tester will check the condition, security, legibility and the format of letters and numbers on your registration plate.

Lights

The Mot test checks the condition, operation, security and colour of your vehicles lights. The test will also check to see if the headlamp aim is correct.

Steering and suspension

The MoT tester will also check the Steering and Suspension components for correct condition and that the operation is correct.

Wipers and washer bottle

During the MoT test will check your vehicles Wipers and Washers ensuring they operate properly and give the driver a clear view of the road.

Windscreen

The nominated tester will check the Windscreen condition and driver’s view of the road and that there are no chips or cracks affecting the driver line of sight.

Horn

The MoT test will cover the horn’s operation for effectiveness and the type is correct.

Seatbelts

All seatbelts including those in the rear of the vehicle are checked for type, condition, correct operation and security and that all compulsory seatbelts are in place.

Seats

Your vehicle’s front seats are checked for security during the MoT test.

Fuels System

The fuel system is checked during the MoT test for leaks and that the fuel cap fastens and seals securely.

Emissions

The MoT test covers your exhaust emissions, ensuring that the vehicle is within the specified guidelines and they the exhaust is complete, secure, without serious leaks and silences effectively.

Bodywork

Vehicle structure and body shell are checked during the MoT test for excessive corrosion or damage in specific areas of the vehicle. Any sharp edge can result in a MoT failure.

Doors

The MoT tester will check that the doors open and close correctly and that the latch is secure in a closed position. Front doors should open from both the inside and outside of the vehicle. Rear doors may need to be opened to gain access to testable items like rear seatbelts.

Mirrors

The mirrors on your vehicle are checked during the MoT test for condition and security.

Wheels and Tyres

The nominated MoT tester will check the vehicle’s wheels and tyres for a number of key points: the condition, security, tyre size and type and tread depth.

Brakes

The MoT tests the efficiency of the vehicle’s braking performance, condition and operation. Most vehicles are tested on a rolling road brake tester.

Further Information

For details  of the testing procedures-:  Government Website MOT

Car or Van needs an MOT?  Tel| 029 20 792 477