What's checked on a Mot
Vehicle structure and general items (body work):
These will be inspected to check that they are free from excessive corrosion, damage in specific areas and
there are no sharp edges likely to cause injury.
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Towbars:
Towbars will be inspected for secureness, condition, inappropriate repairs or modification.
The MOT tester will also check that the 13 pin electrical socket is working correctly. A seven pin electrical socket is not a testable item.
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Fuel system:
The fuel system will be inspected to check that there are no leaks, the pipes and hoses are secure and in a good condition, the fuel cap fastens and seals securely, You should make sure that the key is available as the fuel cap will need to be opened.
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Exhaust emissions:
The vehicle will be inspected (depending on the age and fuel type of the vehicle) to check that it meets the rules for exhaust emissions. The exhaust system will also be checked for any leaks, security and a catalyst or Diesel particulate filter is fitted and has not been tampered with or removed.
Seatbelts:
The vehicle will be inspected to check that the mandatory seatbelts are in place, they are suitable for the vehicle, they are in a good condition, they work properly and that they are attached securely. The malfunction indicator lamps (MILs) or dashboard warning lights will be checked for the, air bags seatbelt pretensioners (which remove the slack from a seatbelt in the event of a collision), seatbelt load limiters (which release a small amount of belt when it’s too tight).
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Seats:
These will be inspected to check that the driver’s seat can be adjusted, all seats are securely fitted and that seat backs can be fixed in the upright position.
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Doors:
These will be inspected to check that the latch is secure in the closed position, the front doors open from inside and outside the vehicle, the rear doors open from outside the vehicle, hinges and catches are secure and in a good condition.
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Mirrors:
The vehicle will be inspected to check for the minimum number of mirrors, their condition and security. Indirect vision devices will also inspected.
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Load security:
The vehicle will be inspected to check that the boot or tailgate can be closed properly.
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Brakes:
These will be inspected to check their condition, including inappropriate repairs or modifications their operation and performance, the anti-lock braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC), The MILs or dashboard warning lights will also be checked for the ABS, ESC, electronic park brake and brake fluid warning lights.
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Tyres and wheels:
These will be inspected to check for, condition, security, tyre size and type, tread depth. Vehicles first used on or after 1 January 2012 will be checked to make sure the tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) MIL is working.
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Registration plates and Vehicle identification number (VIN):
These will be inspected to check for condition, secure attachment, colour, characters correctly formed and spaced. The VIN will be on vehicles first used on or after 1 August 1980. Your car will be inspected to check that a single VIN is displayed,
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Lights:
These will be inspected to check their condition, operation, including high intensity discharge (HID) and light emitting diode (LED)
the headlamps for cleaning, self levelling and security, headlamp aim, main beam warning light working.
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Bonnet:
This will be inspected to check that it closes securely.
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Wipers and washers:
These will be inspected to check that they work properly and the washer jets are functioning correctly and hitting the screen so the driver has a clear view of the road.
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Windscreen:
The windscreen will be inspected to check for condition, damage and the driver’s view of the road.
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Horn:
This will be inspected to check that it works properly and it’s suitable for the vehicle.
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Steering and suspension:
These will be inspected to check their condition, that they work correctly and the power steering fluid is at the correct level. Power steering pipes or hoses are checked for leaks and corrosion, also the steering lock mechanism to make sure it works properly, and the MILs or dashboard warning lights will also be checked for the electronic power steering and steering lock. Finally, inspections are carried out for any inappropriate repairs or modifications.
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Electrical:
Visible electrical wiring and the battery will be checked for security.
What can I check
Before taking your car for an MOT (Ministry of Transport) test, it's a good idea to perform some basic checks to ensure your vehicle meets the required standards. Here are some important things you can check yourself:
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Lights:
Check all exterior lights, including headlights, front and rear side lights, indicators, hazard lights, brake lights, and registration plate lights. Make sure they are all functioning correctly and that the lenses are clean and not cracked. Indicators should be orange and sometimes the orange paint can come off the bulbs its worth checking they are the correct colour and also check the small indicators on the side of the vehicle or in the wing mirrors as these not working would constitute as a fail. Check the fog light works and it must be positioned on the offside (drivers side) of the vehicle and must be red at the rear. The front fog lights must be checked on a vehicle first registered on or after the 1st March 2018. The reverse lights must be checked on a vehicle first registered on or after 1st September 2009.
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Tyres:
Check the tyre tread depth, which should be at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre and around the entire circumference. Also, look for any signs of damage or uneven wear and ensure the tyre pressures are correct. Make sure the tyre is fitted in accordance with the side wall instructions as it may have a direction of rotation or inside outside markings on. finally check the tyre size and you have the same tyre size are fitted on the same axle
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Wipers and Washers:
Ensure the windscreen wipers are in good condition and effectively clear the windshield. Check the washer fluid level too.
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Windscreen:
Check for any cracks or damage in the driver's line of vision. Minor chips can sometimes be repaired, but large cracks may require replacement. Remove any air fresheners or trinkets from the interior mirror and any phone holders or sat nav holders attached to the screen.
Mirrors:
Ensure all mirrors are securely attached and adjustable. Make sure there are no cracks or significant damage.
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Horn:
Test the horn to ensure it's working correctly and audible.
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Seatbelts:
Check all seatbelts for signs of damage or fraying. Ensure they retract properly and buckle securely.
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Exhaust System:
Look for any visible signs of damage or excessive corrosion. The exhaust should not be excessively noisy or produce visible smoke.
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Number Plates:
Check that the front and rear number plates are securely attached, easily readable, and in good condition.
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Suspension:
While not easy to inspect thoroughly without proper equipment, you can check for obvious signs of damage, leaks, or worn components.
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Fluid Levels:
Check the engine oil, coolant (water/antifreeze), brake fluid, power steering fluid, and screen wash levels. Top up if necessary.
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Fuel Cap:
Ensure the fuel cap seals properly and there are no leaks.
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Dashboard Warning Lights:
Make sure all warning lights illuminate when the ignition is turned on and go off once the engine is running.
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These are some of the essential checks you can perform yourself before taking your car for an MOT. If you notice any issues during the inspection, it's best to address them beforehand or consult a qualified mechanic to rectify the problems. Keep in mind that the MOT test is comprehensive, and there might be other aspects beyond these checks that the MOT station will assess.