What happens during an MOT check?

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by: Matt Robbins
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Word Count: 491
Date: Tue, 19 Apr 2011 Time: 2:04 AM
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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 is required by law, it is also required by the Post Office when you purchase your tax disc.

An MOT will involve checking several different areas of your vehicle. It does not, however, cover the engine, clutch or gearbox. You can often combine your MOT with a full service to check these areas of your vehicle.

An MOT certificate will prove that your vehicle was safe and roadworthy at the time of the test; it will not guarantee that your car will be in the same condition by the time of the next MOT test.

The MOT checks several areas of the vehicle, including:
-Body and vehicle structure
-Fuel system
-Exhaust emissions
-Exhaust system
- Seat belts
-The seats
-Doors and mirrors
- Breaks
-Load security
-Tyres and wheels
-Registration plates
-Lights
-Bonnet
-Wipers and washers
-Windscreen, horn
-Steering and suspension
-Vehicle Identification Number

You can take your car for an MOT at a registered test centre, which will have the correct certified equipment to carry out the tests properly. There are thousands of registered centres across the UK.

The typical cost of a car MOT is around £50 and around £30 for motorcycles. Certain test centres 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.

A MOT is required three years after it was first registered. If your car is new then you will follow this policy, if you are buying a used car you must make sure that you receive the MOT certificate and details, as it will need an MOT annually. You can also check a vehicles MOT history online. Ambulances, taxis and passenger vehicles with nine or more seats will need MOT testing one year after registration.

It is important that you take responsibility to make sure that you take your car for an MOT annually as it is a legal requirement. The tester will be able to advise you on any items that may need to be seen to in the future, which will give you an indication into what needs to be done to your car.

Failing to produce an MOT certificate can have many implications. The police can 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.

If a vehicle fails its test, it can be tested again, most likely at the same testing centre, this will depend on the centre's own policy. The individual testing station or their website will be able to provide you with their re-testing policy and cost.

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, MOTs and repairs across the nation.
For all other enquiries, call 0800 096 4216