An MOT (Ministry of Transport) test is a mandatory annual inspection for vehicles over three years old in the UK. It ensures that your vehicle meets the minimum safety and environmental standards required to be roadworthy. The MOT test is comprehensive, covering various components of your vehicle to guarantee its safety and compliance with regulations. Here's an overview of what is tested in an MOT:

1. Lights, Indicators, and Reflectors

• What’s Checked: All lights (headlights, tail lights, brake lights, indicator lights) and reflectors are checked for proper functionality, positioning, and condition. This includes the hazard lights, fog lights, and rear reflectors.
• Why It’s Important: Proper lighting ensures that your vehicle is visible to others and that you can see and signal clearly in all driving conditions.

2. Steering and Suspension

• What’s Checked: The steering system, including the steering wheel, column, and power steering, as well as the suspension system (shock absorbers, springs, and linkages).
• Why It’s Important: A functioning steering and suspension system ensures that your vehicle handles properly, keeping you in control and providing a smooth ride.

3. Brakes

• What’s Checked: The brakes are tested for effectiveness, balance, and condition, including the brake pads, discs, and any warning indicators on the dashboard. The handbrake is also tested for proper operation.
• Why It’s Important: Effective brakes are crucial for stopping safely and quickly, preventing accidents.

4. Tyres and Wheels

• What’s Checked: Tyre tread depth (must be at least 1.6mm), tyre condition (no cracks or bulges), and the correct tyre pressure. The wheels are also inspected for damage or wear.
• Why It’s Important: Proper tyres ensure good grip, stability, and braking performance, especially in wet or icy conditions.

5. Exhaust and Emissions

• What’s Checked: The exhaust system is checked for leaks, corrosion, and secure fittings. Emissions are tested to ensure the vehicle meets environmental standards, including checks for excessive smoke or dangerous levels of pollutants.
• Why It’s Important: A functional exhaust reduces harmful emissions and noise while ensuring your vehicle doesn’t pollute the environment excessively.

6. Seatbelts

• What’s Checked: All seatbelts (including front and rear) are checked for proper operation, condition, and secure fitting. Seatbelt pretensioners and load limiters are also tested.
• Why It’s Important: Seatbelts are a vital safety feature, protecting occupants in the event of a crash by restraining them and preventing serious injury.

7. Windscreen, Wipers, and Washers

• What’s Checked: The windscreen is checked for chips, cracks, or other damage that could impair visibility. Wipers and washers are tested to ensure they clean the windscreen effectively.
• Why It’s Important: Clear visibility is essential for safe driving, and any damage to the windscreen or malfunctioning wipers can hinder your ability to see the road ahead.

8. Horn

• What’s Checked: The horn is tested to ensure it is loud enough and functions correctly.
• Why It’s Important: A working horn is crucial for alerting other drivers and pedestrians to your presence in emergency situations.

9. Mirrors

• What’s Checked: The rear-view and wing mirrors are inspected for damage, secure fitting, and visibility.
• Why It’s Important: Mirrors are essential for observing your surroundings and preventing accidents when changing lanes or reversing.

10. Bodywork and Vehicle Structure

• What’s Checked: The overall condition of the vehicle’s bodywork and structure, looking for excessive corrosion, sharp edges, or damage that could be dangerous to passengers or pedestrians.
• Why It’s Important: Ensuring the vehicle’s body is in good condition prevents structural failure in the event of an accident and ensures safety for those around the vehicle.

11. Fuel System

• What’s Checked: The fuel system is inspected for leaks, secure fittings, and proper functionality of the fuel cap.
• Why It’s Important: A secure and leak-free fuel system prevents fire hazards and ensures the vehicle runs efficiently.

12. Number Plates

• What’s Checked: The number plates are inspected for correct size, spacing, clarity, and secure fitting. The plates must also be clean and legible.
• Why It’s Important: Clear and compliant number plates are essential for identification and legal driving.

13. Seats

• What’s Checked: The condition and security of the driver’s seat and other seats are checked, including the adjustment mechanism for the driver's seat.
• Why It’s Important: Properly fitted and secure seats are crucial for occupant safety, especially in the event of sudden stops or accidents.

14. Doors and Boot

• What’s Checked: All doors, including the boot and bonnet, are inspected to ensure they open and close securely. This includes checking that the latches and locks function properly.
• Why It’s Important: Doors need to open smoothly in case of an emergency and must remain securely closed while driving.

15. Electronic Systems and Dashboard Warning Lights

• What’s Checked: Dashboard warning lights for systems such as airbags, ABS, and traction control are checked to ensure they illuminate and turn off correctly when the vehicle is started.
• Why It’s Important: These warning lights inform you of potential safety issues with your vehicle, and they need to function properly to alert you to any faults.

16. Registration and VIN Number

• What’s Checked: The vehicle’s registration and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) are checked to ensure they match the vehicle and are clearly visible.
• Why It’s Important: Correct registration and identification ensure the vehicle is legally compliant.

Pass or Fail?

If your vehicle passes the MOT, you’ll receive a certificate, and your vehicle will be roadworthy for another year. If your vehicle fails, you will be provided with a list of issues that need to be addressed. At Bridgwater MOT Centre, we can carry out the necessary repairs and get your vehicle back on the road as quickly as possible.

Book Your MOT with Bridgwater MOT Centre

At Bridgwater MOT Centre, we take pride in providing thorough, reliable, and professional MOT tests. Our expert technicians ensure that every aspect of your vehicle is tested to keep you safe and roadworthy. Book your MOT with us today and enjoy peace of mind knowing your car is in expert hands.