The MOT Test

The MOT Test

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The MOT Test

When does a car require an MOT?

The first MOT on a car should take place when the vehicle is 3 years old – please note that this could be different if this has 9 seats or more and/or is a taxi. An MOT tests the important elements of your vehicle to ensure they meet the minimum legal requirements, you should continue to make sure that your car maintains this standard as a minimum at all times. As the registered owner of the vehicle, it is your responsibility to ensure the vehicle is examined every 12 months.

You must get an MOT for your vehicle by:

• The third anniversary of its registration
• The anniversary of its last MOT, if it’s over 3 years old

Please note that some vehicles need to be tested from one year old – see DVSA website for full details.

What does an MOT test?

The components that are inspected during a car MOT are:

• Body and vehicle structure
o Ensure that there isn’t any excessive corrosion or damage, including any sharp edges that could cause harm/injury.

• Vehicles with towbars
o Check for secureness and condition
o Inappropriate repairs or modification
o Correct operation of 13 pin electrical socket.

• Exhaust system
o Check vehicle meets rules on exhaust emissions
o Carry out a smoke test, check exhaust system is complete and free from leakages
o Check catalytic converter is present where one was fitted as standard
o Not too noisy

• Vehicle Safety
o Mandatory belts are all in place and work properly
o Belts are suitable for the vehicle
o Belts are attached correctly and securely
o Driver’s seat is adjustable
o All seats are secure and back seats can be fixed in an upright position
o Malfunction indicator lamps/dashboard warning checked for the airbags, seatbelt pre-tensioners and load limiters • Doors – opened from inside and out

• Mirrors

• Load security

• Brakes (Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) if applicable)

• Electronic park brake and brake fluid warning

• Tyres and wheels – tread depth, size, type and condition. Check of the MIL for Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) will be carried out on vehicles first used on or after 1 January 2012.

• Fuel System
o Check condition and free from leakages
o Fuel cap

• Registration plates

• Speedometer condition and operation

• Engine mountings are secure

• Lights

• Bonnet

• Window wipers and washers

• Windscreen

• Horn

• Steering & suspension

• Check condition and operation

• Steering oil level

• Steering lock mechanism

• Electronic power steering and steering lock.

• Vehicle identification number

• Electrical wiring and battery.


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