MOT Test Changes Explained

The Ministry of Transport (MOT) test is a crucial annual check for vehicles in the United Kingdom, ensuring they meet road safety and environmental standards. Over the years, the MOT test has evolved to keep pace with technological advancements and increasing environmental concerns. Understanding these changes is vital for every car owner to ensure their vehicle remains compliant and safe on the road. This article will delve into the most recent and significant alterations to the MOT rules, providing a comprehensive guide for motorists across the UK.

Key Changes to the MOT Test

The MOT test underwent a significant overhaul in May 2018, introducing a new grading system and stricter requirements for certain components. These changes were designed to improve the accuracy of the test and to better reflect the condition of modern vehicles.

New Grading System

One of the most impactful changes was the introduction of a new three-tier grading system:

• Dangerous: A defect has a direct and immediate risk to road safety or has a serious impact on the environment. The vehicle must not be driven until repaired.
• Major: A defect that is not dangerous but may reduce the safety of the vehicle, or have an impact on the environment. The vehicle will fail the MOT test and needs to be repaired immediately.
• Minor: Defects that do not have a significant effect on the safety of the vehicle or the environment. These will be recorded on the MOT certificate and the owner should repair them as soon as possible.

Previously, vehicles would either pass or fail. The new system provides a more nuanced assessment, allowing for a clearer understanding of the vehicle's condition.

Stricter Emission Standards for Diesel Cars

The 2018 changes also introduced tougher emission rules, particularly for diesel cars. Vehicles with diesel particulate filters (DPFs) will now fail their MOT if:

• Smoke is seen being emitted from the exhaust (visible smoke).
• The DPF has been tampered with or removed.

This measure aims to combat air pollution and ensure that diesel vehicles comply with modern environmental regulations. It's crucial for owners of older diesel vehicles to ensure their DPF is in good working order.

New Items Tested

Several new items are now checked during the MOT test:

• Tyres: Tyres with a tread depth below 1.6mm are now a failure item. Tyres with visible cracks or bulges will also result in a fail.
• Brakes: Checks on brake fluid contamination have been introduced.
• Lights: Daytime running lights are now checked on vehicles first registered after March 1, 2018.
• Steering: Checks on fluid leaks from power steering systems.
• Other: Windscreen wipers and washers (if fitted), and headlight washers (if fitted) are now tested.

Advisories vs. Defects

It's important to understand the difference between an 'advisory' and a 'defect'. A minor defect may be recorded as an advisory, meaning it's not serious enough to cause an immediate fail but should be monitored and repaired at a later date. However, with the new grading system, many items previously categorised as advisories might now fall under the 'minor' defect category, requiring attention but not necessarily an immediate fail.

Why Are MOT Rules Changing?

The MOT test is regularly updated to reflect advancements in vehicle technology and to address evolving safety and environmental concerns. The primary drivers behind these changes include:

• Improving Road Safety: By identifying potential safety issues early, the MOT test aims to reduce the number of accidents caused by vehicle faults.
• Reducing Emissions: With growing awareness of climate change and air quality, the test is becoming stricter on emissions to encourage the use of cleaner vehicles and proper maintenance of emission control systems.
• Ensuring Fairness: The new grading system provides a more transparent and consistent assessment of a vehicle's condition, ensuring that all vehicles are tested to the same high standards.

What Does This Mean for You?

For vehicle owners, these changes mean a more rigorous and comprehensive check of their vehicle's safety and environmental performance. It's essential to stay proactive with your car's maintenance:

• Regular Servicing: Don't wait for the MOT test to identify problems. Regular servicing by a qualified mechanic can help catch issues before they become major failures.
• Check Key Components: Before your MOT, it's wise to do a quick visual check of your tyres, lights, wipers, and mirrors to ensure they are in good condition.
• Understand Your DPF: If you own a diesel vehicle, ensure your Diesel Particulate Filter is functioning correctly and has not been tampered with.
• Be Aware of Advisories: Pay attention to any advisories listed on your MOT certificate. While not a fail, these highlight potential future problems that need addressing.

Comparison of Pre- and Post-May 2018 MOT Rules

To illustrate the impact of the changes, here's a simplified comparison:

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: My car is only 2 years old, does it need an MOT?
No, vehicles under three years old do not require an MOT test. However, it's still your responsibility to ensure your vehicle is roadworthy at all times.

Q2: What happens if my MOT expires?
Driving a vehicle without a valid MOT certificate is illegal. You can be fined up to £1,000 and your vehicle may be seized if it's found to be untaxed and without a valid MOT.

Q3: Can I get my MOT done early?
Yes, you can get your MOT test up to one month (minus one day) before your current expiry date without affecting your expiry date. This is a good idea to allow time for any necessary repairs.

Q4: What if my car fails the MOT?
If your car fails, the garage must give you a refusal certificate. You can leave the premises provided the vehicle is still taxed and insured. However, you must not drive it until the necessary repairs have been made and it has passed the MOT test. You can have the vehicle repaired at the same garage or take it elsewhere. If it's repaired at the same garage, you may only need a partial re-test.

Q5: Are there any upcoming changes to the MOT test?
While the major changes were implemented in May 2018, the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) continually reviews MOT requirements. It's always advisable to check the official GOV.UK website for the most up-to-date information on any future changes.

Conclusion

The MOT test is an essential part of vehicle ownership, ensuring that our roads are safer and our air is cleaner. The recent changes reflect a commitment to these goals, making the test more comprehensive and aligned with modern vehicle technology and environmental standards. By understanding these updates and maintaining your vehicle proactively, you can ensure it remains compliant, safe, and environmentally responsible, ultimately saving you potential hassle and expense down the line.