Suppose you own a vehicle in the UK. In that case, whether it’s for business or personal use (or both), you are likely to be familiar with the annual vehicle check-up, commonly referred to as the MOT (Ministry of Transport) test. You would also know that the MOT exam is a legal requirement for most vehicles over three years old, ensuring that your vehicle meets (the minimum) safety and environmental standards. But what should you expect with an annual vehicle check-up, and what should you do to pass the test? Here are some quick tips.
What Is the MOT Test?
The MOT exam or test is a comprehensive check-up of your vehicle to ensure it meets the legal requirements for road safety and various environmental standards. During the examination, a qualified mechanic will inspect your car’s key components, including the brakes, lights, suspensions, steering, and emissions. If your vehicle, for some reason or other, fails the test, you will have to address any issues before it can be deemed roadworthy.
What can you do to prepare for the test?
Before taking your vehicle for an MOT test, there are a few things you can do to prepare. First, ensure your car is clean and tidy – this can help the mechanic perform the inspection more easily. Also, ensure that all your vehicle’s key components are working well. For instance, check that all the lights, including indicators and brake lights, function properly. You should also check that your tyres have adequate tread depth and are inflated to the recommended pressure. To be doubly sure, you can have your vehicle checked by an RAC-approved garage – but it’s best if the garage is in your local area, so do a search online for ‘RAC approved garages near me.’
During the examination
During the examination of your car, the mechanic will inspect various parts to ensure that your car meets the required standards. For instance, they will check the emissions to ensure they are within the legal limits and the brakes and suspension (which must be in good working condition, of course). They will also check the steering to ensure it is not excessively loose and is properly responsive. The mechanic will also inspect your vehicle’s lights, including the headlights, the indicators, and the brake lights.
If there are any issues during the inspection, you will be given a list of what needs to be fixed. Some of the issues may be minor, such as a blown bulb – and the mechanic can fix this during the test. However, if there are more significant issues (such as with the brakes or emissions), you may have to take your vehicle to a garage to have repairs done to it before it can pass the test.
Pass or fail?
If your vehicle passes the MOT test, you will be tvbucetas given an MOT certificate with a validity of 12 months. With this certificate, you can confirm that your vehicle meets the minimum legal requirements for road safety and environmental standards. Keep this certificate safe because you need it when you renew your road tax or sell your car.
If your vehicle fails the test, you will be presented with a list of the issues that must be addressed. Then, you can take your car for repairs and a re-test, usually within ten working days, to ensure it meets the required standards.