Every car owner in the UK has to take their vehicle to a VOSA approved garage for an annual MOT. The exception lies with new cars that do not need an MOT for the first three years. It is up to the driver to remember and book the MOT, as unlike tax, no reminder is sent and this is where problems can occur. Unless you make a diary note a year in advance, it is easy to let the date pass.
Driving on public roads without a current MOT certificate is against the law and if you are stopped by the police, you may be fined, receive points or have your vehicle removed. The exception is if you have a pre-booked MOT and you are driving to that appointment.
The lack of a current MOT can also invalidate your insurance, so you could be facing an unexpected bill if an incident should occur. It is also necessary to have a current MOT certificate in order to tax your vehicle. Failure to tax your car is another reason why you could be stopped, fined and possibly have your car confiscated. All in all, it really isn’t worth avoiding.
If you are unsure when your MOT is due, it’s time to go and check your paperwork now. Your last MOT certificate will include a renewal date. If it has passed, you should book an MOT as soon as possible and not drive your car again until it has passed. If your vehicle doesn’t pass, you shouldn’t drive it until the necessary work has been carried out.
What happens in an MOT?
An MOT is a check to ensure that your vehicle is roadworthy and compliant with legal requirements. There is a standard set of DVSA guidelines, which every MOT garage has to follow as part of the MOT process, so the checks will be the same, no matter where your car is booked in for an MOT.
If your car should fail, the garage must detail the issue and should advise you on what needs to be done in order to rectify the problem. They may offer to undertake the work for you then and there, although if your current MOT is still valid, you can chose to take your car to another garage.
Once the work has been carried out, a retest is essential before an MOT certificate can be presented.
If you are looking for a reliable garage to undertake your MOT, Holmer Green Service Centre has the expertise and equipment to assist.
What Checks are Made in an MOT?
The MOT guidelines include checks on the Vehicle Identification Number, the Registration Plates and the emission levels. The MOT will use a roller brake tester to ensure your vehicle can stop within acceptable limits, they will check the steering and suspension is fully operational and in good condition, along with checking there are no leaks or damage to the fuel system.
The condition of bodywork, mirrors, windscreen, lights, seatbelts, wheels and tyres are checked. These are all clearly visible to the driver, so it is possible for you to see signs of wear, corrosion or damage and action these prior to the MOT test. You can also check the fluid levels, tyre pressure and that the horn works before the MOT.
If your car passes, this doesn’t mean that no work is required until the following year. The test certificate may include advice on areas that might soon need replacing. It is also wise to make regular checks and undertake maintenance as required, to keep your car in the best possible condition.
