The letter has slipped through your door, it’s time for your MOT. Finding out your MOT is due often causes that sinking feeling, especially if you have been trying to avoid big repair bills. However, there are simple checks you can do to increase your chances of passing your MOT.
What does the MOT check?
If your car is over three years old, you are required to take it for an MOT test every year. A mechanic will usually check these areas:
- Wipers and washers
- Steering and suspension
- Lights
- Brakes
- Registration place
- Vehicle identification number
- Windscreen
- Doors
- Mirrors
- Seat belts and seats
- Horn
- Wheels and tyres
- Fuel system
- Exhaust system
- Vehicle emissions
MOT Checklist you can do before your test
Reduce your risk of failing by following this simple checklist before taking your car an MOT test.
Vehicle body and tyres
- Does your horn work?
- How are your brakes, handbrake and steering wheel? The steering wheel should not feel loose and the handbrake should not be pulled up too high.
- Are your tyres at the right pressure and at the legal tyre tread limit of 1.6mm?
- Look out for any damage around the inlet filler cap.
Lights
Are they all working correctly?
- Fog lights
- Rear lights
- Brake lights
- Hazard lights
- Indicator lights
Have any of the bulbs blown? Are you able to replace them yourself? Check all the warning lights on your dashboard are working also.
Windows and mirrors
- Under no circumstances should anything be obstructing your view of the road.
- If needs be, remove any sat nav cradles, stickers or air fresheners that can block your view.
- Check for any damage on your wiper blades and replace them if worn.
- Mirrors need to be secure and intact.
Cleaning your car inside and out
- MOT washes can be carried out to ensure underneath your car is clean for inspection.
- Registration places need to be readable and in good condition.
- The car needs to be presentable inside and out. The tester can refuse to carry out your test if the car is dirty and full of clutter.
What if your car fails MOT?
Well, it’s simple, if it fails, your car is not roadworthy and you must have all issues repaired, then the car retested. The MOT test can also tell you about some minor faults, which are not immediate and can be fixed around a month or so after your initial test.
How do I check my car MOT date?
Thanks to GOV.uk, you can check your MOT date on their website - https://www.gov.uk/check-mot-status
