MOT >> >

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The MOT scheme ensures consistent standards of vehicle maintenance and is monitored by the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) on behalf of the Secretary of State.

>>> Who needs it?

Every vehicle over three years old needs to be tested once a year to ensure that it complies with the minimum road safety and environmental standards.

> > About the MOT

The MOT looks at some important items to see if they meets the legal requirements. The MOT certificate, however, is not a guarantee of the general mechanical condition of a vehicle. It also only demonstrates that the vehicle was mechanically sound at the time of testing. It is not a substitute for regular maintenance.

>> When to get tested

An MOT can be carried out at any time. If the vehicle is tested within the calendar month prior to the MOT due date, the test certificate will run from the date of the test to one year after the expiry date of the current certificate. If the vehicle is tested earlier than one month before its due date, the MOT will only run for twelve months.

>>> Where to get tested

There are around 19,000 garages approved to carry out MOT testing in the country. The blue 'three triangles' logo, which stations have to display, identifies approved test stations. Just like with any car maintenance, it is always advisable to go by word of mouth when choosing where to go.

>>> What is checked?

For cars, the following will be included in the test;

• The vehicle identification number must be permanently displayed
• The registration plate will be checked for its condition, security, legibility and format of letters/numbers
• The lights will be checked for their condition, how well they work, security and correct colour. The headlamps will also be checked to see if the aim is correct
• The steering and suspension will be checked
• The windscreen wipers and washers will be checked to ensure you have a clear view of the road, as will the windscreen itself
• The horn will be tested to ensure that it works and is the correct type
• Seatbelts will be checked to ensure they are of a satisfactory condition, that they operate and are secure
• Front seats must be secure, while front and rear backseats must be able to be secured in the upright position
• The fuel system must have no leaks and the fuel cap must fasten correctly and seal securely (the fuel cap will need to be opened, so make sure the key is available)
• The vehicle must meet the requirement for exhaust emission, which can vary on the age and fuel type of the vehicle
• The exhaust system must be complete, secure, without serious leaks and silences effectively fitted
• The vehicle structure must be free from excessive corrosion or damage in specific areas, with no sharp edges
• Doors must open and close effectively, with the latch secure in the closed position
• Mirrors will be tested for condition and security
• Wheels and tyres must be in a good condition, be secure, with the correct tyre size, type and tread depth
• Brakes will be tested for condition, operation and performance

>>> MOT certificate

Records of test results are now held on a secure central database, similar to your licence details. The MOT certificate is your receipt for the MOT test. It shows the information that’s held on the MOT database. The certificate is no longer proof of an MOT and shouldn’t be relied on as such. Only the computer record can prove a vehicle has a valid MOT. The police may still require sight of your MOT certificate though, so remember to keep it in a safe place.

> Legalities

It is generally an offence to drive a vehicle on a public road that does not have a valid MOT. The exceptions are when;

• taking it to a test station for a test booked in advance
• bringing it away from a test station after it has failed the test, to a place of repair
• taking it to or bringing it away from a place where, by previous arrangement, repairs are to be made or have been made to fix the problems that caused the vehicle to fail its test

Even in the above circumstances you may still be prosecuted for driving an unroadworthy vehicle. Furthermore your insurance may not be valid either.

>> When will I need it?

You need your MOT Certificate when you apply for a new tax disc, unless your vehicle is not subject to MOT testing because of its age or type. If you have a new style MOT certificate you can renew your tax online.

The Police are also entitled to see an MOT certificate for a vehicle that’s required to have one.

>> > Cost

It will cost £53.10 to have an MOT test for a car. Be aware of additional costs that you may have to make to fix the vehicle to the required standard.