Important Checks Involved in an MOT

  Taking your car for an annual MOT is the best way to ensure that not only is it safe to drive, but will last you for years to come. Failing to do so, on the other hand could potentially result in driving a car that is illegal to be on the road as well as affect the future renewing of your car tax. An MOT consists of a variety of checks that are carried out by a qualified mechanic. These will determine if your car is in safe driving condition as well as if there are any underlying issues that could turn into more costly problems down the line. Lights and Horn Up to 20% of cars fail their MOT due to a light bulb being damaged or not functioning properly. The lights that are checked in the test are the headlights, sidelights, indicators, brake lights, number plate lights, rear fog lights, reverse lights and hazards. The horn is also tested to ensure it can be heard loud and clearly by others on the road. Tyres All tyres have to meet the legal tread requirement and should not show any signs of dents or damage. The mechanic will also check to make sure that all the tyres are the correct size. Windscreen and Wipers The windscreen will be checked for any cracks and chips – if there is a chip obstructing the drivers view that is more than 10mm in length, this will result in failure of the test. The mechanic will also check that wipers are fully secured and can clean the windscreen efficiently for clear visibility. Mirrors Wing mirrors must be secured to the car and show no signs of damage or cracks. Steering The steering will be tested to ensure it is working efficiently and that the car can be steered in various directions. Body A damaged car body is considered a dangerous hazard and depending on the severity, could result in an immediate fail. The mechanic will assess any corrosion or dents on the body to determine whether any issues are likely to worsen and cause further damage. Fuel The fuel cap must be able to lock securely and seal inside. Despite most new cars using an automatic sealing cap this will still need to be checked to ensure there are no leakages. Brakes  To check the brakes the mechanic will put the car onto a roller brake tester, which will help calculate the effectiveness of the brakes to ensure they perform effectively. Exhaust and Emissions Emissions must meet the standard requirements, which can vary depending on the age and size of the car engine. The exhaust will also be checked to make sure it is secured properly to the car and that there are no signs of corrosion. If your Nissan is due an MOT or service, click here to find out more about our servicing and repairs options.