Why you need an MOT check

View PDF | Print View
by: Matt Robbins
Total views: 34
Word Count: 506
Date: Tue, 19 Apr 2011 Time: 2:21 AM
0 comments

An MOT may seem like another extra cost for you and your vehicle, but it is actually an important check that will make sure that your vehicle passes standards required by law.

An MOT (Ministry of Transport) involves a certified test centre using specialised equipment to check many different parts of your vehicle, testing the safety and the level of emissions in the exhaust.

An MOT will also show that your car is safe and road worthy at the time the test was taken; a recent MOT will also look favourable when trying to sell your car. Not having an MOT certificate will mean that you are unable to renew your road tax as you will need to take your MOT certificate to the Post Office for your new tax disc. You will also find it difficult to insure your car without an MOT certificate. The police can also ask to see your MOT certificate and they also have access to the computerised records of MOT results. The current penalty for driving on the road with an expired MOT is £60, or a court fine of a maximum of £1, 000.

According to Directgov, an MOT certificate ‘confirms that at the time of the test, without dismantling it, the vehicle met the minimum acceptable environmental and road safety standards required by law.'

The test covers most of your vehicle; however it does not cover the engine, clutch or gearbox. It is important to remember that the certificate shows that your vehicle was safe and road worthy, but only at the time of the test- the certificate does not guarantee the car's condition until the next MOT.

It is your own responsibility to make sure that you take your car for an MOT annually as it is a legal requirement. The tester will also be able to advise you on any items that may need to be seen to in the future.

You should be taking your vehicle for an MOT three years after it was first registered. This includes motorcycles. Ambulances, taxis and passenger vehicles with nine or more seats will need testing after one year.

When buying a used car you may find that it is due for an MOT or it has already had one. You can check your vehicle's MOT status and history online.

If a vehicle fails its test, it can be tested at the same station again. The individual station or their website will be able to provide you with their re-testing policy and cost.

There are thousands of garages across the UK that are certified MOT test centers, a typical cost of a car MOT is around £50 and around £30 for motorcycles. Some test centers will provide you with a range of package choices that can involve a full service as well as an MOT, which can often work out cheaper when purchased together.

After your vehicle has been tested, your test record will be entered on to a secure central database. You will then either receive your certificate or notification of failure.

About the Author

Matt Robbins - Online Manager of Halfords Autocentre (previously Nationwide Autocentre) have more ATA trained mechanics than any other independent garage group being the UK's leading provider of Tyres, MOT and repairs across the nation.
For all other enquiries, call 0800 096 4216.