MOT Test: What's Checked?

Understanding Your Car's MOT: A Comprehensive Guide

The annual MOT (Ministry of Transport) test is a legal requirement for vehicles in the UK that are three years or older. Its primary purpose is to ensure your car is safe to drive, environmentally compliant, and meets the required roadworthiness standards. Many drivers, however, are unsure about the specifics of what is actually checked during this vital inspection. Knowing what to expect can help you prepare your vehicle and potentially avoid a failure. This article will delve into the intricate details of the MOT test, covering all the key areas and components that a qualified tester will meticulously examine.

The Core Areas of an MOT Test

The MOT test is divided into several key categories, each focusing on a different aspect of your vehicle's safety and operation. These categories are designed to be thorough, leaving no stone unturned when it comes to your car's condition.

1. Vehicle Structure and Chassis

This is a fundamental part of the MOT, as a compromised chassis or structure can severely impact the vehicle's integrity and safety. Testers will be looking for:

• Corrosion: Significant rust or corrosion in critical areas like the chassis, suspension mounts, and body panels can lead to structural weakness. Particular attention is paid to the sills, wheel arches, and floor pan.
• Damage: Any signs of major damage, such as cracks, twists, or distortion, will be assessed. This includes checking for any signs of previous accident repair that may not have been carried out to a satisfactory standard.
• Suspension Components: The integrity of the suspension system is paramount for handling and stability. Testers will examine springs, shock absorbers, wishbones, and other suspension arms for signs of wear, damage, or leaks.
• Steering System: A properly functioning steering system is crucial for control. The MOT checks for excessive play in the steering wheel, worn steering rack ends, track rod ends, and any leaks in the power steering system.
• Tyres: Tyre condition is a major safety factor. The test includes checking for tread depth (a minimum of 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the breadth of the tread), cuts, bulges, and any signs of uneven wear which could indicate alignment issues. The correct tyre size and type for the vehicle will also be verified.

2. Engine and Drivetrain

While the engine's performance isn't directly tested in terms of power output, its general condition and emissions are scrutinised.

• Exhaust Emissions: A crucial check for environmental compliance. Your vehicle will be tested to ensure it meets the specific exhaust emission standards for its age and fuel type. A faulty catalytic converter or engine management issues can cause high emissions.
• Engine Oil Leaks: Significant oil leaks that could pose a hazard to other road users or the environment will result in a failure. Minor seepage is usually acceptable.
• Engine Mountings: These rubber or hydraulic mounts secure the engine and absorb vibrations. If they are perished, cracked, or broken, it can lead to excessive engine movement and a failed MOT.
• Transmission: While not a comprehensive mechanical check, the MOT will look for any obvious leaks from the gearbox or differential, and ensure the transmission is securely mounted.

3. Braking System

The braking system is arguably the most critical safety component of any vehicle. The MOT test includes a thorough examination of all aspects of the brakes.

• Brake Performance: Your car will be put on a brake roller tester to measure the braking efficiency of both the front and rear wheels, as well as the handbrake. There are specific minimum requirements for braking force.
• Brake Fluid: The level and condition of the brake fluid are checked. Contaminated or low brake fluid can severely impair braking performance.
• Brake Lines and Hoses: Testers will inspect brake pipes and hoses for corrosion, leaks, damage, or kinking. Any signs of wear or deterioration here can lead to brake failure.
• Brake Discs and Pads: The condition of brake discs (checking for wear, scoring, or warping) and brake pads (checking for thickness and even wear) is vital. Minimum thickness requirements apply.
• Handbrake: The effectiveness of the handbrake (also known as the parking brake) is tested to ensure it can hold the vehicle stationary on a gradient.

4. Lighting and Signalling

Correctly functioning lights are essential for visibility and communicating intentions to other road users.

• Headlights: Checked for operation, alignment (beam pattern), and condition. Different types of headlights have different requirements.
• Tail Lights, Brake Lights, and Indicators: All rear lights, brake lights, and turn signals are tested for operation, correct colour, and visibility.
• Number Plate Lights: The light illuminating the rear number plate must be working correctly.
• Reflectors: Rear reflectors must be present, intact, and in the correct position.

5. Visibility

The driver's ability to see the road clearly is paramount for safe driving.

• Windscreen: The MOT checks for any chips, cracks, or damage to the windscreen within the driver's primary field of vision. A chip larger than 10mm or a crack over 40mm in this area will result in a failure.
• Wipers: The condition and effectiveness of the windscreen wipers are assessed. They must clear the windscreen efficiently without smearing or leaving excessive streaks.
• Washers: The windscreen washer system must be working and able to direct fluid onto the screen.
• Mirrors: All mirrors (door mirrors and interior mirror) must be securely fitted and in good condition.

6. Other Components

Beyond the main categories, several other vital components are inspected:

• Horn: The horn must be working and produce an audible warning sound.
• Seatbelts: All seatbelts must be present, correctly fitted, and in good working order, with no fraying or damage to the webbing. The seatbelt warning light system is also checked.
• Fuel System: The fuel pipes and connections are checked for leaks or corrosion. The fuel cap must also seal correctly.
• Doors: Doors must open and close correctly, and the latches must be secure.
• Bodywork: Beyond structural corrosion, sharp edges or protrusions that could be a hazard to pedestrians or other road users will be noted.
• Exhaust System: Besides emissions, the exhaust system is checked for security, leaks, and excessive noise.
• Wheels and Wheel Nuts: Wheels must be securely fitted, and all wheel nuts must be present.
• Airbags: The airbag warning light should illuminate briefly on startup and then go out. If it stays on or doesn't illuminate at all, it indicates a fault.
• Tachograph (Commercial Vehicles): If fitted, a tachograph may also be inspected.

What Constitutes an MOT Failure?

An MOT test failure occurs when a vehicle does not meet one or more of the required standards. The reasons for failure can be categorised as:

• Dangerous: A defect that poses an immediate and direct risk to road safety or has a serious impact on the environment. The vehicle must not be driven until repaired.
• Major: A defect that may prejudice the safety of the vehicle or have a serious impact on the environment. The vehicle must be repaired without delay.
• Minor: A defect that has no obvious danger to road safety or impact on the environment. The vehicle will still pass the MOT but the defect should be repaired as soon as possible.
• Advisory: A defect that is not serious enough to cause the vehicle to fail the MOT, but should be monitored and repaired if necessary.

Preparing Your Car for its MOT

To give your car the best chance of passing its MOT, consider carrying out some basic checks yourself:

• Tyre Tread Depth: Ensure all tyres meet the legal minimum tread depth.
• Lights: Check that all your exterior lights are working correctly.
• Wipers and Washers: Make sure they are functioning effectively.
• Horn: Test the horn.
• Windscreen: Inspect for any damage in the driver's line of sight.
• Fluid Levels: Check your engine oil and brake fluid levels.

FAQs about the MOT Test

Q1: How often does my car need an MOT?
Your car needs its first MOT when it is three years old, and then annually thereafter, unless it is an electric vehicle which requires its first MOT after four years.

Q2: Can I drive my car without a valid MOT?
No, it is illegal to drive a vehicle on public roads without a valid MOT certificate, except when driving to a pre-booked MOT appointment. You can be fined up to £1,000 for driving without an MOT.

Q3: What happens if my car fails its MOT?
If your car fails its MOT, it will be issued with a refusal of an MOT certificate. You will be given a list of the reasons for the failure. You can leave the test centre if your car has a valid MOT certificate that has not yet expired, but you must not drive it until the necessary repairs are completed and it passes a re-test.

Q4: Can I get an MOT done early?
Yes, you can get your MOT done up to one month before the current certificate expires without affecting your renewal date. For example, if your MOT is due to expire on 15th June, you can have it tested from 15th May onwards.

Q5: How much does an MOT cost?
The maximum price for an MOT is set by the government, but garages can charge less. The current maximum prices are £54.85 for cars and £29.65 for motorbikes.

Conclusion

The MOT test is a comprehensive assessment designed to ensure your vehicle is safe and roadworthy. By understanding the various components and systems that are checked, you can be better prepared for the test, address potential issues beforehand, and ensure your car continues to meet the high safety standards expected on UK roads. Regular maintenance and awareness of these key areas will not only help your car pass its MOT but also contribute to a safer and more reliable driving experience.

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