What is Involved in an MOT?

Dec 04, 2017 Suhail Ajmal Tips 0

At least once a year, you must take your car for an MOT test, you can do this at a designated MOT Centre or your local Car Dealership may offer an MOT, such as California Cars and Commercials. During an MOT service, your vehicle will be thoroughly inspected in each of its elements to ensure that it’s safe to drive and that it meets all of the legal requirements.

The Vehicle Identification Number will be checked, along with the front and rear vehicle number plates to make sure that they are not damaged and are clearly visible. It is crucial that the headlights emit a good level of light, so they will be examined to make sure that they are in good condition.

MOT testing Image Source: Maxpixel

Your vehicle’s windscreen must not be damaged, or have any chips or cracks that are greater than 10mm in front of the driver, or that are larger than 40mm anywhere else. While the windscreen is being inspected, the wipers and washers will be checked as well, to ensure that they provide a clear view for the driver in any condition.

Various steering and suspension components will also be checked during an MOT to make sure that they are in good condition, are operating well and are correctly aligned. Items that are poorly fitted, joints that are worn or corrosion are likely to cause an MOT failure.

The safety of yourself and the other passengers within the vehicle is taken very seriously during the testing, therefore all seat belts and restraints will be checked to make sure that the material hasn’t become ripped, torn or damaged in any way. In addition, the mounts that connect the seat belts and restraints to the vehicle’s chassis will be inspected for signs of corrosion.

Furthermore, the vehicle doors will be examined to prove that they are able to close securely and can be easily opened from both inside the vehicle and outside. The mirrors should not be cracked, discolored or poorly fixed. The horn will also be tested to make sure that it isn’t too quiet or too loud.

An MOT certificate must be renewed each year to be certain that your vehicle meets the legal requirements to be on the road. Driving your vehicle on the road without a valid certificate could result in a fine of as much as £1,000 or more. Not to mention, failure to have your vehicle tested would put yourself, your passengers and other drivers at risk.