Automotive

Everything You Must Know About The Mot Test

By Mallingrepair Service 04 Jul, 2022 258

The MOT test is an annual test of vehicle safety, roadworthiness aspects and exhaust emissions required in the United Kingdom for most vehicles over three years old.  It is a legal requirement to ensure that your vehicle has a valid MOT certificate unless you are driving it on a trade plate or 'SORN'ed (declared off-road).

The test checks that your vehicle meets the minimum standards for safety and environmental protection. If your vehicle does not pass the MOT test, you will need to have it repaired and retested.

The purpose of the MOT test is to help improve road safety and keep up-to-date with the condition of vehicles on our roads.

What Does The MOT Test Include?

An MOT Maidstone test includes a number of different checks on your vehicle, including:

  • Lights and signalling equipment
  • horns
  • mirrors
  • windscreen wipers and washers
  • brakes (including parking brake)
  • tyres and wheels
  • seat belts
  • bodies, doors and door mirrors
  • exhaust system
  • fuel system
  • emissions (cars only)
  • registration plates and VIN (vehicle identification number)
  • driver's view of the road

What Happens If My Vehicle Fails The MOT Test?

If your vehicle fails the MOT test, you will receive a failure certificate which details the reasons for the failure.

You will then need to have the necessary repairs carried out within a set period of time, after which you can have your vehicle retested.

If your vehicle is more than three years old, you can choose to have it repaired at a garage of your choice, or you may prefer to use a mobile MOT Maidstone testing service.

If you choose to have your vehicle repaired at a garage, you will need to take the failure certificate with you when you take your vehicle for repair.

Once the repairs carry out, the garage will then issue you with a pass certificate.

You should then send the pass certificate, along with the MOT test fee, to the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) within 21 days to update your records.

There are a few things that you can do to help your vehicle pass its MOT test. These include:

  • Checking tyre pressure and tread depth regularly
  • Ensuring that all lights and reflectors are clean and working properly
  • Checking the condition of your wipers and washers
  • Make sure that your windscreen is clean and free from cracks or chips
  • Checking the condition of your seat belts
  • Make sure that your horn is working

If you are not sure about anything, it is always best to seek professional advice. It is important to remember that the MOT test is only a check of safety and roadworthiness, and does not mean that your vehicle is 'roadworthy' for the entire year. If you have any concerns about the safety of your vehicle, you should always seek professional advice. 

The Pros and Cons of the MOT Test.

MOT test is an annual test of vehicle safety and roadworthiness in the United Kingdom. It is essential by law for all vehicles over three years old. The test checks that your vehicle meets the minimum safety standards required by law.

The Pros

1) Ensures your car is safe to drive – The MOT Maidstone test is an annual safety check of your vehicle. The test checks that your vehicle meets the minimum safety standards required by law.

2) avoid potential points on your licence – If your car does not pass its MOT, you could also get points on your driving licence.

3) keeps your car’s value high – A car that has a valid MOT certificate is more valuable than one that doesn’t.

The Cons

1) can be expensive – The cost of an MOT can vary depending on the garage you use. However, it is usually between £35 and £54.

2) time-consuming – An MOT can take up to an hour, depending on the garage you use.

3) inconvenient – If your car fails its MOT, you will need to get it repaired before you can drive it again. This can be inconvenient, especially if you rely on your car for work or other commitments.

4) stressful – An MOT can be a stressful experience, especially if your car fails. This is because you may have to pay for repairs or get a new car.

 

The MOT test is an important annual safety check for all vehicles in the UK. The test ensures that your vehicle meets the minimum safety standards required by law.

However, the MOT can be expensive and time-consuming. If your car fails the MOT, you will need to get it repaired before you can drive it again. This can be inconvenient, especially if you rely on your car for work or other commitments.