What Exactly is an MOT and Why Do You Need It?
- Content Colin
- Jun 12, 2024
- 3 min read
Every car owner knows that once your car is older than three years, you have to take it for an MOT test every year. This is more than just a legal formality—it’s crucial for ensuring that your vehicle is safe to drive. Imagine driving a car with faulty brakes or poor emission controls on busy streets; it doesn't bear thinking about!
The Ministry of Transport (hence 'MOT') test checks that your vehicle meets road safety and environmental standards. If your car fails, it’s time for some repairs. Failing to have a valid MOT certificate might not just get you a fine but could also mean points on your driving licence or even a ban.
How Does the MOT Test Work?
When you take your car in for an MOT test, the examiner checks numerous components to ensure everything meets the required standards. Here’s a quick rundown:
Lights: Proper function and correct alignment
Steering and Suspension: Enough to guarantee safe manoeuvring
Wipers and Washers: Must sufficiently clear the windscreen
Windscreen: No chips or cracks in the driver's view
Horn: It must work (beep beep!)
Seatbelts and Seats: Must be secure and in good condition
Emissions: Your car needs to meet environmental standards
Bodywork: Should have no dangerous sharp edges
Doors: Should open and close properly
Mirrors: Must be secure and offer adequate views
Wheels and Tyres: Correct tread depth and no significant damage
Brakes: Must function effectively
Some of these are simple to check yourself, meaning you could potentially save money and time by ensuring your vehicle won’t be failed for issues like a blown light bulb or a low windscreen washer fluid.
Proving Your MOT Status
After a successful MOT, you receive a VT20 MOT Test Pass certificate. But what happens if you lose this document? No worries—any MOT test centre can issue a duplicate when you provide your vehicle registration and V5C logbook number, usually for a minimal fee.
Who Doesn’t Need an MOT?
That’s right, not every vehicle in the UK needs to undergo this check:
Cars under three years old are exempt because they’re likely still covered under the manufacturer's warranty.
Classic vehicles over 40 years old that haven’t been significantly modified also don’t require an MOT, though you will need to fill in an exemption form (Form V112).
Checking MOT Details and History Online
Wondering about your MOT due date or the history of a potential car purchase? Both are easily accessible online via the Government MOT checker. This allows you to enter the registration number and find out important details about past tests, provided directly from the DVSA.
Your MOT and Vehicle Tax
Possessing a valid MOT isn’t only crucial for your safety—it also affects your vehicle tax and insurance. You cannot tax your vehicle without a valid MOT, and driving without valid vehicle tax or MOT could lead to considerable fines. When it comes to insurance, whilst having an MOT is not required to purchase insurance, driving without a valid MOT could invalidate your claim.
Common Causes for MOT Failures and Tips to Pass
Amid the quirks of your daily drives, it's easy to overlook simple fixes that can fail your MOT test. According to the DVSA, the most common fail reasons include issues with lights and tyres. For instance, ensuring the correct tyre pressure and checking that all your lights function can prevent these fails.
Giving your car a general check before the MOT can save you from failing due to minor problems. Furthermore, cleaning your vehicle might not help pass the MOT directly, but it certainly lets you spot issues you’d have missed otherwise.
Preparing Your Vehicle: Best Practices
Plan your MOT test well ahead. Besides doing preliminary checks yourself, choose a credible and reliable garage. Booking early gives you the leverage of time to manage any repairs needed and avoid last-minute rushes. Regular cleaning and checks can ease your MOT test passage and boost your vehicle's longevity and performance.
Wrap Up
Understanding the MOT is essential not only to comply with the legal requirements but also for your safety and that of other road users. Regular checks and early preparations can make your MOT test a breeze.
