28/12/2006
The UK government has announced the reintroduction of mandatory MOT tests for vehicles in England, Scotland, and Wales from 1 August. This follows a temporary exemption granted in March due to the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing drivers to delay their MOT by up to six months if their test was due during that period. With many vehicles having seen reduced usage over the past few months, it's crucial for owners to ensure their cars are in a safe and roadworthy condition before the deadline. This article will delve into the specifics of the MOT reintroduction, provide guidance on what to check on your vehicle, and offer practical advice for getting your car back into regular service. Whether you're a key worker or have been using your car sparingly, understanding these changes and preparing your vehicle is paramount for road safety and legal compliance.
Understanding the MOT Reintroduction
The extension period for MOT tests is now coming to an end. From 1 August 2020, all vehicles will be required to have a valid MOT certificate. This means that if your MOT was due between 30 March 2020 and 31 July 2020, and you received an extension, you will need to book your test by the end of July to ensure your vehicle remains legal to drive. The government's decision to reinstate mandatory MOTs is aimed at ensuring the roadworthiness and safety of vehicles across the country, particularly as traffic levels begin to increase. It's important to note that while the test date was extended, the requirement for vehicles to be kept in a roadworthy condition at all times has not changed. This means that even with the extension, drivers were still responsible for ensuring their vehicle was safe to operate. The reintroduction of the mandatory test simply means that official certification is now required again.
What to Check Before Your MOT
With the mandatory MOTs back in effect, it's a good time to give your car a thorough check to identify any potential issues before booking your test. This proactive approach can save you time, money, and the inconvenience of a failed test. Here are some key areas to inspect: * Lights: Ensure all lights are working correctly, including headlights (dipped and main beam), taillights, brake lights, indicator lights, and fog lights. Check for any cracked or discoloured lenses. * Tyres: Inspect the tread depth of all your tyres. The legal minimum is 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the breadth of the tread. Also, check for any cuts, bulges, or signs of uneven wear, which could indicate alignment issues. * Brakes: While a full brake system check requires professional inspection, you can listen for any unusual noises when braking (e.g., grinding or squealing) and feel for any sponginess in the brake pedal. Ensure the parking brake is functioning effectively. * Wipers and Washers: Check that the windscreen wipers clear the screen effectively and that the washers spray water onto the windscreen. Top up the washer fluid if necessary. * Horn: Test that the horn works and is audible. * Exhaust System: Look for any signs of damage, corrosion, or leaks in the exhaust system. Excessive noise from the exhaust could be an indicator of a problem. * Bodywork: While minor cosmetic damage might not cause a MOT failure, significant corrosion or sharp edges that could be a hazard to others may lead to a fail. * Windscreen: Check for any chips or cracks in your windscreen, especially in the driver's field of vision. A chip larger than 10mm or a crack over 40mm in the driver's line of sight will result in a fail.
Tips for Getting Your Car Road-Ready After Lockdown
If your car has been sitting idle for an extended period, it's essential to prepare it for regular use. Here are five tips to help you get your car out of lockdown and ready for its MOT and beyond: 1. Check the Battery: Batteries can lose charge when a car is not used. If you experience slow cranking or a completely dead battery, it might need charging or replacing. Consider using a trickle charger if you plan to leave the car unused for long periods again. 2. Inspect Fluids: Check the levels of engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. Ensure they are at the correct levels and look for any signs of leaks. If the car hasn't been used much, the fluids may still be in good condition, but it's always wise to check. 3. Tyre Pressure: Over time, tyres can lose pressure. Ensure all tyres are inflated to the correct pressure as specified in your car's manual or on the sticker usually found on the driver's side doorjamb. Underinflated tyres can affect handling, fuel efficiency, and tyre wear. 4. Brake Check: Gently apply the brakes at low speed in a safe area. Listen for any unusual sounds and feel for any sponginess or pulling to one side. If you have any concerns, it's best to have them inspected by a professional. 5. Start and Run the Engine: If possible, start the engine periodically (e.g., once a week) and let it run for a few minutes. This helps circulate oil and coolant, preventing components from seizing and keeping the battery charged. If you're taking it for a drive, ensure you drive for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the engine and exhaust system to reach their optimal operating temperature.
Common MOT Failures and How to Avoid Them
Understanding common reasons for MOT failure can help you prepare your vehicle effectively. Here's a table highlighting frequent failure points and what you can do:
| Failure Point | Description | How to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Lighting | Incorrect type of bulb, faulty bulbs, or misaligned lights. | Check all lights are working and are the correct type. Ensure headlights are properly aimed. |
| Brakes | Worn brake pads or discs, low brake fluid, or faulty brake pipes. | Regularly check brake fluid levels. Listen for any unusual brake noises. If in doubt, seek professional advice. |
| Tyres | Tread depth below 1.6mm, cuts, bulges, or incorrect tyre type for the vehicle. | Check tread depth regularly. Inspect tyres for damage. Ensure you are using the correct size and type of tyre specified by the manufacturer. |
| Visibility | Chips or cracks in the windscreen affecting the driver's view, or ineffective wipers. | Check the windscreen for damage. Replace worn wiper blades. |
| Suspension | Worn shock absorbers, damaged springs, or loose suspension components. | Listen for knocking or rattling noises from the suspension. Have any suspicious noises investigated. |
| Exhaust Emissions | Excessive emissions or a faulty catalytic converter. | Ensure your car is serviced regularly. Avoid prolonged idling, especially in cold weather. |
| Registration Plates | Illegible or non-compliant registration plates. | Ensure plates are clean, securely fitted, and comply with legal requirements. |
Frequently Asked Questions
- When exactly are mandatory MOTs being reintroduced?Mandatory MOT tests are being reintroduced from 1 August 2020 for vehicles in England, Scotland, and Wales.
- My MOT was due in April, and I got an extension. What do I need to do?If your MOT was due between 30 March 2020 and 31 July 2020, you must book your MOT test by the end of July 2020 to ensure your vehicle remains legal to drive.
- Does the reintroduction of MOTs affect my insurance?Yes, driving a vehicle without a valid MOT certificate when one is legally required can invalidate your car insurance. It's crucial to have your MOT completed on time.
- Can I still get a MOT test done now, even if my extension hasn't expired?Yes, you can book your MOT test at any time. If you choose to get it done before your extended deadline, the new expiry date will be 12 months from the original due date.
- What happens if my car fails its MOT?If your car fails its MOT, it cannot legally be driven on the road unless you are driving it to a pre-booked appointment for repair or to a pre-booked MOT test. You will typically be given a 'refusal of an MOT test certificate' notice, which details the reasons for failure.
Conclusion
The reintroduction of mandatory MOT tests signifies a return to normalcy for vehicle safety regulations. It is the responsibility of every vehicle owner to ensure their car is compliant and, more importantly, safe to drive. By taking proactive steps to check your vehicle and address any potential issues, you can ensure a smooth MOT experience and contribute to safer roads for everyone. Don't leave it until the last minute; book your MOT and give your car the attention it needs after a period of reduced use. Safety first on our roads is paramount.
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