What is an MOT test?

Originally called the Ministry of Transport test, an MOT is an annual examination of a vehicle that is three years old or more. The MOT tests both the safety of your vehicle and the level of emissions in the exhaust. The Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) is responsible for 'licensing' both the MOT test station and the MOT tester.

It is your responsibility to ensure that your vehicle is tested every 12 months. Without a valid MOT certificate, you will be unable to renew your road tax and your insurance may be invalid. Having a current MOT certificate is also a legal requirement in the UK.

The importance of an MOT test

The MOT confirms that at the time of the test and without dismantling it, the vehicle meets the minimum acceptable environmental and road safety standards required by law.

It doesn't mean that the vehicle is roadworthy for the length of time the certificate is valid. The MOT certificate is also no guarantee of the general mechanical condition of your vehicle.

The test doesn't cover the condition of the engine, clutch or gearbox.

Your MOT can be done up to one calendar month before it is due; this is to give you time to have any repairs done before the old certificate expires.

Most vehicles need their first MOT when they are three years old, then annually.

MOT test highlights

Lighting and signalling

Steering and suspension

Brakes

Tyres and wheels

Seatbelts

Body and structure

Driver's view

Exhaust

Emissions

Most common failures

Lighting and signalling

Tyres

Driver's view

Specialising in many vehicle classes

Class I Motorcycles up to 200cc
Class II All motorcycles except Class I
Class IV Cars up to eight passenger seats, motor caravans and quads
Class V Private passenger vehicles (minibuses) 13-16 seats
Class VII Goods vehicles (vans) 3000-3500kg DGW

The MOT confirms that at the time of the test it has met the minimum acceptable environmental and road safety standards without dismantling the vehicle.

What do we check for during the MOT test?

We check for corrosion, excessive wear and deterioration of in the areas listed on the picture below

If you are unsure when your certificate runs out, you can check online at

www.motinfo.gov.uk