An MOT is an annual assessment of a vehicle to make sure that it’s safe for the road and meets environmental standards for emissions. This car check can sometimes be daunting for drivers when the time comes, as there is a chance that it might fail.
So, what does it involve? Check out the government guidance for testers to see what they inspect. The engine, clutch and gearbox are not part of an MOT. Here are just some of the elements they investigate:
MOT: Testing Tyres
Tyres are very important components of a vehicle, that’s why they need to be in great condition. A test will fail if these don’t meet the requirements. The wheels should be secure with no cuts or bulges in the rubber.
Testers will also measure the tread depth to make sure they maintain a good grip of the road. You can do this yourself with the 20p test. Simply place the penny in the grooves of your tyres. If the outer band is visible when inserted, then your tyres may be deemed unsafe to drive.
Safe Brakes
Along with the tyres, brakes should be working properly to pass the MOT. They’re critical for your safety. Your mechanic will make sure that all elements of the braking system are doing their job and decelerating the vehicle safely. If your car pulls to one side when you come to a stop, this could be an indication of issues within the braking system.
Assessing Windscreens
An MOT examines the driver’s view of the road to make sure it is safe and free from obstruction. Testers will look for damage and visual obstacles that could affect the driver. Having large cracks and chips in the window may be the reason for a failure. Moreover, the window wipers need to be able to have a wide enough reach to clear the motorist’s viewpoint.
Looking At The Lights
One of the biggest reasons for faults during a test is down to the lighting and signalling. This could just be a broken bulb with an easy fix. All lights need to be working, the correct colour and in the right position.
An MOT will also test for these elements:
- Working car horn
- Secure steering
- Seats and seatbelts in good condition
- Adequate suspension
- No electrical faults
- Enough mirrors
- Operating fuel system
- Legal and readable registration plate
- Load security
- Exhaust emissions
- Acceptable bodywork
Passing & Failing An MOT
Under the Ministry of Transports guidelines, a vehicle can either pass or fail the test, all which is recorded in the MOT database. You might pass but get provided with a list of ‘minor’ or ‘advisory’ problems to address or fix in the future.
But what if it fails?
Major Defects
Your vehicle will fail if the test result lists any major defects, and your vehicle will not pass the test until these defects have been fixed. Major defects include any break failure, shock absorber or exhaust system with leaking fluid, or lighting issues.
It is important to get these problems fixed right away to make the vehicle safe to drive. If you are having your vehicle MOT test done by a licenced garage, you should let them complete any listed repairs.
Arrange An MOT With Us Today
If it’s time to book a car check, contact Mann Auto Services and we can help you. Our technicians can make sure your vehicle is safe and roadworthy. If your car fails, then you need not worry because we can assist in fixing those problems.
