Things to Be Aware of Before You Head to the MOT

MOT Faringdon is a test that all vehicles in the UK have to pass. It is a test assessing the roadworthiness of your vehicle so that it can legally drive.

MOT is a Critical Test Assuring a Vehicle’s Viability

This evaluation is an annual necessity, and passing this test is essential for all vehicles. The Ministry of Transport or MOT test is a test conducted by the government of the UK. The test has certain safety and environmental standards that all vehicles have to adhere to. Upon passing this test, your vehicle is accredited with an MOT pass certificate. This certificate is to be kept as an essential credential along with all other papers of your vehicle.

If a vehicle does not have the MOT pass certificate, then it will be subject to penalties. In this test, there are a lot of testers who assess the functionality of different vehicle components. Although MOT is a comprehensive test, it does not include the checking of all the components of the vehicle.

Is it Mandatory to Take the MOT Test?

Yes, MOT is a compulsory test that all vehicles in the UK have to take and pass in order to prove their roadworthiness. Not clearing this test means that your vehicle is not eligible or safe to be on the road, and is a potential safety hazard. This is because the MOT test includes certain testers, and if you don’t clear all the testers, then that raises certain issues in the components of your vehicle. Therefore, passing the MOT test means that all the parts of your vehicle that are assessed in the test are workable and your vehicle is allowed to drive legally on the roads.

How Frequently is the MOT Test Conducted?

The MOT test is an annual test, so it is conducted once a year. For the vehicles taken just out of the showroom, you do not have to worry about taking the MOT for at least the next three years. It is only after your vehicle reaches three years of age that it has to take the MOT test each year. Afterwards, your vehicle is given an MOT pass certificate upon clearing the test, which also mentions the date of expiration of the certificate. The consecutive MOT for your vehicle has to be registered before the date of expiration of the previous MOT arrives.

How Long Does an MOT Test Take?

MOT is a comprehensive vehicle assessment including the inspection of the majority of vehicle parts. This test takes around 30 to 60 minutes to complete, based on the condition of your vehicle. If a car has faults or complexities, then its assessment will take more time than other, better-functioning cars. The time taken to undergo MOT also includes the paperwork, overall inspection of the vehicle, and, of course, the assessment of different parts of the vehicle, such as its lights, brakes, suspension system, tyres, steering, and more.

What are the Basic Components that are Checked During an MOT?

The basic components that are checked during the MOT include a variety of vehicle parts. MOT test is a compulsory test that is done on the vehicle to measure its roadworthiness, legal, and environmental compliance. Different components of the vehicle are checked for any faults and to ensure their efficient functions. When your vehicle clears this test, it is given an MOT clearance certificate validating the roadworthiness of your vehicle.

The vehicle parts that are commonly checked in an MOT are listed below.

• The whole bodywork of your car is inspected for any defects or any signs of corrosion.

• The suspension of your vehicle is also checked for its workability or to see if it's showing any signs of deterioration.

• The lighting of your vehicle is also checked, as perfect illumination is crucial for the safety of the vehicle.

• Tyres are thoroughly assessed for signs of wear and tear or damage. Their tread depth is also measured to make sure it is not below the permissible limit of 1.6 mm.

• The braking system is also checked for functionality and to make sure there is a shorter stopping distance.

• Mirrors and windscreens are also evaluated for any cracks, as the obstruction in the driver’s view is considered a hazard.

What Mistakes to Avoid Before Going to the MOT?

There are certain mistakes that are to be avoided before the MOT, and these are common faults that make vehicles fail the MOT test.

• The brakes of your vehicle should not be faulty. Check the pads, cylinder, rotor, and brake lights before the MOT test.

• The suspension system should also be working at its best. If there is damage in the suspension system or the vehicle is displaying signs of faulty suspension, then this needs to be corrected before the test.

• Tyres are crucial foundational parts of the vehicle and are thus thoroughly assessed during the MOT using various testers. Make sure the tyres are perfect with the correct tread depth.

• Overall lighting and bodywork of the vehicle should also be checked before you register for the MOT test.

At Your Garage Limited, we provide extensive Car Service Faringdon to make sure that your vehicle easily clears the MOT test.