M.o.T Testing

Within the UK all vehicles over 3 years are required by law to have an MOT certificate to ensure that the vehicles are roadworthy and comply to current UK laws and requirements. This means that once a year you must present your vehicle to a VOSA registered MOT centre to undergo the MOT test.

The test relates to the testable items at the time of testing only.  Various safety and mechanical features are tested, including the vehicles emissions.  A summery of the tested items can be found below:

  • Vehicle identification number - a vehicle identification number must be permanently displayed and legible on a vehicle first used on or after 1 August 1980
  • Registration plate - condition, security, legibility and format of letters/numbers
  • Lights - condition, operation, security and correct colour. The headlamps will also be checked to see if the aim is correct
  • Steering and suspension - correct condition and operation
  • Wipers and washers - operate to give the driver a clear view of the road
  • Windscreen - condition and drivers view of the road
  • Horn - correct operation and type
  • Seatbelts - all seatbelts installed are checked for type, condition, operation and security. All compulsory seatbelts must be in place
  • Seats - front seats secure. Front and rear backseats can be secured in the upright position
  • Fuel system - no leaks, fuel cap fastens correctly and seals securely. The fuel cap will need to be opened. Make sure the key is available
  • Exhaust emissions - vehicle meets the requirement for exhaust emission. These vary on the age and fuel type of the vehicle
  • Exhaust system - complete, secure, without serious leaks and silences effectively
  • Vehicle structure - free from excessive corrosion or damage in specific areas. No sharp edges
  • Doors - open and close. Latch securely in closed position. Front doors should open from inside and outside the vehicle. Rear doors may need to be opened to gain access to testable items
  • Mirrors - presence, condition and security
  • Wheels and tyres - condition, security, tyre size and type, and tread depth. Spare tyres are not tested
  • Brakes - condition, operation and performance (efficiency test). Suitable vehicles will be tested on a roller brake tester. Vehicles such as those with permanent 4-wheel drive will be tested either on a suitable road using a properly calibrated and maintained decelerometer or, if one is installed at the test station, a plate brake tester