As a responsible car owner , no one can avoid Mot test in UK. A car failed Mot test means, it automatically losses validity to be driven on the UK street. Therefore, keeping your vehicle up to date with Mot test is mandatory and holds right to keep driving your vehicle without any hassle.
Table of Content
- What is Mot test
- How to check the Mot history of a vehicle
- What does the Mot test include
- How or where to do the MOT test
- How to prepare for an MOT test
- What are the possible results of the MOT test
- What happens if my car fails the MOT
- How do I correct a mileage error on my MOT certificate
- Frequently Asked Questions –
What is Mot test
The Mot (Ministry of Transport) test is the annual inspection of a vehicle’s safety , road worthiness and exhaust emissions . This is a legal requirement for UK vehicles older than 3 years to have a valid MOT certificate since 1960, failure to comply results conceding a penalty of £1000 . Once a Mot is passed , a vehicle gets clearance to run on UK streets for the next one year . That means , your MOT is valid for one year only.
How to check the Mot history of a vehicle
MOT status of a UK vehicle is easily accessible by online check . People can check your vehicle status instantly using online tools like https://cardatachecker.co.uk by entering their car registration on the search bar . It can also be detected through the government website https://www.gov.uk/check-mot-status.
What does the Mot test include
The MOT test checks an array of components including brakes, steering, tires and wheels, driver visibility, fuel systems, exhaust system and catalytic converters, seat belts and body structure of a vehicle. Additionally all emissions must be within the legislated limits . It is important to be aware that failing to comply with UK MOT requirements can lead to difficult legal consequences.
How or where to do the MOT test
There are more than 22,000 approved MOT testing stations where people can conduct your vehicle’s MOT test in the UK . These testing stations are licensed by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) and offer comprehensive checks of vehicle’s roadworthiness, emissions and safety standards. You can find a nearby MOT testing station using an online search engine or a government website such as GOV.UK. It is important to choose a reputable testing station with certified professionals who follow strict guidelines to ensure that your car is safe to be on the road. Always make an appointment in advance and bring along all necessary documents such as your car’s registration certificate (V5C) and previous MOT certificates to avoid any inconvenience or delay during the test.
How to prepare for a Mot Test
An MOT test is a crucial aspect of vehicle safety, and thus it is essential to ensure that your car is roadworthy before attending a test. It is recommended to check your car thoroughly at least two weeks in advance and address any issues or problems beforehand. Ensure such things as tyres, windows, wipers and lights are all functional, as well as checking fluid levels, battery condition, brake pads, steering alignment and exhaust system, Any outstanding engine management lights or faults should be addressed prior to the date of testing.
What are the possible results of a Test
The new categories for an Mot test are as follows:
Dangerous – A direct and immediate risk to road safety or has a serious impact on the environment. Do not drive the vehicle until it’s been repaired. FAIL
Major – It may affect the vehicle’s safety, put other road users at risk or have an impact on the environment. Repair it immediately. FAIL
Minor – No significant effect on the safety of the vehicle or impact on the environment. Repair as soon as possible. PASS
Advisory – It could become more serious in the future. Monitor and repair if necessary. PASS
It meets the minimum legal standard. Make sure it continues to meet the standard.
What if my car fails Mot
It is important to address any issues promptly to avoid more serious problems in the future. First, ensure that you understand why your car failed the test by reviewing the examiner’s report. Then, seek out a qualified mechanic who can properly diagnose and repair any issues identified during the test. Once your vehicle has been repaired to standard, book a retest at your nearest testing facility, ensuring that all necessary documents are provided. It is also worth researching if you are eligible for a partial or full refund if repairs were carried out within prescribed time limits after failing an MOT test. Regular maintenance and servicing can help you identify any potential failures before they become major issues and can ultimately save you time, money, and stress in the long run.
How do I correct a mileage error on my MOT certificate
If you discover that there’s an error in the recorded mileage on your MOT certificate, it’s important to rectify the situation as soon as possible. Errors can occur due to a number of reasons, including data entry mistakes or technical faults. It’s essential to correct this error before selling or purchasing a car or for insurance purposes. To ensure accuracy, obtain written evidence of the correct reading from your service receipts and bring them along with your current MOT certificate to the testing center where you originally had your vehicle tested. The examiner will then be able to amend the recorded mileage, issue you with a new certificate, and update their central database accordingly. Further action should also be taken if you suspect fraudulent activities or deliberate errors by submitting complaints about any unscrupulous parties involved through proper channels such as lodging complaints via DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency).
Frequently Asked Questions –
Is it allowed to drive a MOT expired car ?
Absolutely not! unless you have a MOT test booked and you are on your way to the test center. Should the police stop you, you must produce the booking evidence.
Can I set up a Mot reminder?
Yes , you can. You have to register with DVSA. Just follow this link https://www.gov.uk/mot-reminder
What is mostly looked at in Mot test?
Lights, Steering and suspension, Wheels and Tyres, Brakes (efficiency of braking performance), Wipers and washer bottle, Lights, Emissions, Fuel System .