MOT

The MOT test (Ministry of Transport, or simply MOT) is an annual test of vehicle safety, roadworthiness aspects and exhaust emissions required in the United Kingdom for most vehicles over three years old.  Rick will present your vehicle for mot and wait while the test is performed. If your vehicle fails the test then any work required and the costs will be fully explained before any work is arranged. The vehicle once repaired will then be re tested.*

*No retest fee if vehicle is completed within 10 working days

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To find out if your vehicle has a valid MOT and when your next MOT test is due, check out  MOT Due Date Check and enter your vehicle registration number.  The MOT can be completed on the vehicle at any time before the expiry date but in order to preserve your existing expiry date, you will need to take your MOT test up to 1 month (minus a day) before it runs out. So, if your MOT runs out on 16th May, the earliest date you can have your MOT test and keep the same renewal date for next year will be 15th April.

The MOT test checks that the Vehicle Identification Number, commonly referred to as the VIN, is present and legibly displayed on the vehicle. The VIN is a unique code including a serial number that is stamped on the vehicle. The location of the VIN varies from one vehicle manufacturer to the next.

The MOT tester will check the condition, security, legibility and the format of letters and numbers on your registration plate. The spacing and lettering on the number plate must meet current regulations and should not be altered in any way.

The MOT test checks the condition, operation, security and colour of your vehicles lights. The test will also check to see if the headlamp aim is correct.

The MOT tester will also check the steering and suspension components for correct condition and that the operation is correct.

During the MOT the tester will check your vehicle's wipers and washers ensuring they operate properly and give the driver a clear view of the road.

During the MOT the tester will check your vehicle's windscreen for any chips or cracks. The maximum damage size is 10mm in the drivers’ line of vision or 40mm elsewhere in the remaining area swept by the wiper blades.

The MOT test will cover the horn’s operation for effectiveness and suitability.

All seatbelts including those in the rear of the vehicle are checked for type, condition, correct operation and security and that all compulsory seatbelts are in place.

Your vehicle’s front seats are checked for security during the MOT test.

The fuel system is checked during the MOT test for leaks and that the fuel cap fastens and seals securely.

The MOT test checks your exhaust emissions, ensuring that the vehicle is within the specified guidelines and that the exhaust is complete, secure, without serious leaks and silences effectively.

Vehicle structure and body shell are checked during the MOT test for excessive corrosion or damage in specific areas of the vehicle. Any sharp edge can result in an MOT failure.

The MOT tester will check that the doors open and close correctly and that the latch is secure in a closed position. Front doors should open from both the inside and outside of the vehicle. Rear doors may need to be opened to gain access to testable items like rear seatbelts.

The mirrors on your vehicle are checked during the MOT test for condition and security.

The MOT tester will check the vehicle's wheels and tyres for a number of key points: the condition, security, tyre size and type and tread depth.

The MOT tests the efficiency of the vehicle's braking performance, condition and operation. Most vehicles are tested on a roller brake tester.