As per the UK laws, three years after a vehicle’s registration, it has to undergo an MOT test every year to ensure its roadworthiness. MOT stands for a Ministry of Transport test that inspects if a vehicle meets legal environmental and road safety standards. In the UK, it’s illegal to drive an automobile on the road without a valid MOT certificate. If your MOT certificate has expired, your vehicle insurance will no longer be valid. MOT certificates are required during vehicle taxation and for changing its tax class.
MOT certificates often expire 12 months after the issue date of the previous MOT certificate. So, if your vehicle is older than three years, do not forget to undertake the MOT test every year. You can renew your car’s MOT certificate up to one month before the current certificate expires to ensure flexibility for scheduling the MOT test on a date and time convenient for you.
Tips to pass the MOT test
Many auto garages now provide MOT tests. But if you aren’t sure about which garage to go to or if they’ll charge any unnecessary work, it’s best to visit a dedicated centre for MOT.
When people schedule MOT tests, they usually don’t want to get into the hassle of having to go back to the centre. Hence, it makes sense to know about the MOT checklist and perform some simple tasks yourself at home to ensure your vehicle passes the MOT test. The tips below will help you determine if you require Car Repair or replacement or if you need to refill the oils and fluids.
Fuel System – The fuel system of your vehicle will be inspected to ensure there are no signs of leakage and the condition of hoses and fuel pipes. It provides safety to the car. To pass the MOT test, you need to have a fully locked fuel cap. If your car has a temporary one, ensure it does lock securely. The testers will have to open the fuel cap, so make sure the key is available at that moment. They’ll also test the exhaust emissions of your car, so it should match the legal requirements. Overall, the entire fuel system of your car should operate without any leaks and should meet the legal noise limit too.
Seat Belts – Your vehicle must have seat belts that can fit securely. The DVSA approved MOT testers will check their condition, type, security and operation. They will also check the MIL (Malfunction Indicator Lamp) for airbags and the car’s seat belt’s load limiters and pre-tensioners.
Body Structure – Your car’s body must be free from excessive damage or corrosion in specific areas and sharp edges as well. It can cause injury to other car drivers or pedestrians. They will also inspect if the towbars are in an upright position. The electrical sockets of the car must be operating correctly. Other essential elements that the test will check is the condition of your car’s speedometer and engine mountings.
Mirrors – To pass the test, your car must have a mirror at the driver’s side and an internal rear mirror. The mirrors should be in good condition and secure in position.
Brakes – It’s crucial to check the condition of your vehicle brakes. When checking the brakes, the examiners will look for any inappropriate modifications or repairs to the brakes that will affect performance or operation.
Wipers & Windscreen – The windscreen wipers of your vehicle must do their job without any issue. They must clean the windscreen to ensure a clear view of the path. It’s the same for windscreen washer fluid. Make sure the fluid reservoir contains enough fluid before the MOT test. The test will also check the condition of the windscreen. It must be free of any cracks or chips.
Tyres & Wheels – The tread of your tyres must match the minimum legal requirement, which is 1.6 mm. If your car tyre tread is below that, replace them before the test.
Doors – All doors in your vehicle must latch securely. Both your front doors must open from inside and outside. And in the case of rear doors, it should open at least from the car’s outside.
Lights – All the lights of your vehicle, including headlight, brake light, hazard light, indicators and the number plate right must be working. If not, replace them immediately.
Steering and Suspension – Ensure the condition of the steering and suspension system is fine before going for MOT Morecambe. Check the oil levels, steering pipes and hoses – there should not be any sign of corrosion.
