Preparing for your MOT? Here’s a breakdown of the key components that will be checked.

Vehicle Identification Number

During an MOT, inspectors verify the presence and clear display of the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) at its manufacturer-specified location. The VIN, a unique 17-character code etched onto the vehicle, acts as its fingerprint, allowing for accurate identification and tracking.

Registration Plate

During an MOT, your registration plate undergoes a close examination. The tester will assess its physical condition (no cracks, warping, etc.), secure attachment, and the clarity of letters and numbers. Additionally, they’ll verify the format adheres to current regulations, meaning no unauthorized modifications like spacing changes or non-standard fonts.

Lights

During an MOT, your car’s lights undergo a thorough inspection. This includes verifying their physical condition (no cracks, damage, etc.), operational functionality (all lights working correctly), secure attachment (avoiding movement or detachment), proper colour (white for headlights, red for brake lights, etc.), and accurate headlamp aim (not blinding oncoming drivers).

Steering and Suspension

During an MOT, the inspector meticulously assesses the steering and suspension systems. This includes checking for signs of wear and tear, damage, or loose components, as well as testing their smooth and responsive operation to ensure safe and controlled driving.

Wipers and Washer Bottle

MOTs ensure wipers and washers work effectively, providing the driver an unobstructed view.

Windscreen

During an MOT, the tester inspects your windscreen for any chips or cracks that could impair your vision. They will specifically pay attention to the driver’s line of sight, where a maximum defect size of 10mm is permitted. In other areas swept by the wiper blades, a larger 40mm defect is allowed. Remember, even smaller chips or cracks can pose safety risks and warrant repair or replacement.

Horn

The MOT test ensures your horn operates effectively, meaning it’s loud enough to be heard by other road users. Additionally, it checks that the sound produced is suitable, meaning it’s not harsh, grating, or plays multiple tones like a novelty horn.

Seatbelts

MOTs comprehensively inspect all seatbelts (including rear ones) for type, condition, operation, security, and presence of mandatory ones.

Seats

Your vehicle’s front seats are checked for security during the MOT test.

Fuel system

During an MOT, the tester meticulously inspects the fuel system for any signs of leaks. This includes checking all fuel lines, hoses, the fuel tank itself, and the fuel cap for damage, corrosion, or loose connections. They also verify that the fuel cap seals securely to prevent fuel evaporation and potential fire hazards.

Emissions

The MOT test checks your exhaust emissions, ensuring that the vehicle is within the specified guidelines and that the exhaust is complete, secure, without serious leaks and silences effectively.

Bodywork

During your MOT, the inspector meticulously examines your vehicle’s structure and body shell for potential safety hazards. This includes:

Excessive corrosion (rust): Rust weakens crucial components, impacting the car’s integrity and potentially leading to failure.

Damage: Sharp edges, dents, or cracks can compromise passenger safety in case of an accident.

Doors

The MOT examiner will inspect the functionality of the vehicle’s doors, ensuring they open and close properly with secure latches in the closed position. Front doors should open smoothly from both inside and outside the vehicle, while rear doors may be opened as necessary to access items for testing, such as rear seatbelts.

Mirrors

The mirrors on your vehicle are checked during the MOT test for condition and security.

Wheels and Tyres

The MOT tester will inspect the wheels and tyres of the vehicle, checking for various key aspects including their condition, security, tyre size and type, and tread depth.

Brakes

The MOT assesses the effectiveness of the vehicle’s braking system, examining its performance, condition, and functionality. Typically, vehicles undergo testing using a roller brake tester.

For more information about MOTs and the checks carried out as part of the MOT test, Please visit the GOV.UK website