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The MOT consists of a series of vehicle checks. The vast majority of cars that are three years old or more are required by law to receive an annual MOT. It’s carried out by an authorised examiner, such as a member of the Brayley Kia technical team.
Roughly 1.5 million vehicles fail their MOT each year – so, it’s well worth checking some of the basics on yours to ensure they’re working properly before the test. Of course, not all drivers are tech-savvy but there are simple things you can test before your vehicle’s MOT date is due.
1. Headlights and indicators
Check to see that your vehicle’s headlights, indicators, sidelights, rear lights and hazards are functioning properly.
2. Brake lights
Ask a friend or family member to observe your car’s brake lights while you press the brake pedal. Alternatively, position your car in front of a reflective surface so you’re able to make the check yourself.
3. License plates
Front and rear number plates need to be fully legible, so give them both a clean – and check that the font and space between letters/numbers complies with legal requirements.
4. Wheels and tyres.
Examine wheels and tyres for any damage and check that each tyre has a minimum 1.6mm tread depth – although it’s recommended that tread is above 3mm.
8. Seats and seatbelts
Does the driver’s seat move forwards and backwards as it should? Is it secure? Extend all seatbelts fully in order to examine them properly – and tug on each to test whether they would work correctly in the event of maximum an emergency braking situation.
6. Windscreen
Your car’s windscreen should provide you with uncompromised visibility. Make sure it’s properly cleaned and check that any defects in the ‘swept’ area of the windscreen are no larger than 10 mm. Elsewhere, check that there are no chips, cracks, etc. larger than 40 mm.
7. Windscreen wipers
Are your wipers working properly? Are there any tears or cracks in the rubber? If so they’ll need to be replaced.
8. Screen wash
Something as innocuous as insufficient washer fluid can cause an MOT fail.
9. Horn
Try beeping the horn. If it fails to sound, you’ll need to have it fixed or replaced.
10. Fuel and engine oils
If the tank doesn’t have enough fuel (combustion-engined cars only), it could fail the emissions part of the MOT. Check that brake fluid and engine oil levels are sufficient too.
Please note: before carrying out any checks, ensure that your vehicle has cooled down sufficiently in order to avoid injury due to hot surfaces.
Almost certainly. If you’re at all unsure, please check here: https://www.gov.uk/check-mot-status.
Typically, between 45 minutes and one hour.
If a serious fault is detected, you won’t be able to drive it away. Any such issues will need to be repaired, which we’re more than happy to do. Don’t worry, we’ll provide you with a quote and won’t proceed until you give your permission.
If there are no serious issues and your vehicle’s previous MOT certificate is still valid, you’ll be able to drive it away. However, the identified problems will need to be remedied before MOT re-testing.
Is it time for your vehicle’s MOT? If so, don’t hesitate to make an appointment with us at your earliest convenience – the easiest way to do so is by completing our online contact form.
