WHAT GETS TESTED WHEN I BRING MY VEHICLE IN FOR AN MOT?
Posted by Julie Smith on
We all know that our car needs an MOT every year after its 3rd birthday but have you ever wondered what really gets tested? Is an MOT a mechanical spa day for your car or something more? Well, your MOT test checks that your vehicle meets the minimum legal standards. Below we will explain what we test along with the main reasons that some cars fail, so you can make sure you are not caught out!
There is a minimum of 21 important car parts that get checked. The diagram below shows the official checkpoint guidance by the DVLA
AN MOT DOES NOR CHECK YOUR ENGINE, CLUTCH OR GEARBOX. IF YOU REQUIRE MORE DETAILED MECHANICAL SAFETY CHECKS PLEASE BOOK IN FOR A SERVICE.
Broken headlights, hazards, indicators or brake lights can all results in a fail. If any are not working, check for broken bulbs and replace them or just give us a call. But do make sure the lights are the right colour, as full disco beams will most certainly fail you!
Also, check your horn. If it’s too quiet or sounds croaky then you need to get it checked out before it quite literally fails.
Tyres often cause a problem with MOT’s. Incorrect tyre pressures, damage to the tyre itself or tyre tread under 1.6mm will all result in a fail. Give your tyres a quick once over and if you want to check the tread then all you need is a 20p coin.
We all know how important your brakes are so check your brake pedals, warning lights and handbrake. As for your handbrake, how do you know if that’s tricky? Well just check the tension. If it slides up and down too easily or won’t fix in place then you need it checked over by a professional mechanic (like us!).
If you can’t see the road clearly then you are at risk. This includes your rear view mirrors, wing mirrors, wipers and washers. Make sure that they are all working and allow you to clearly see your driving space. This also includes your windscreen - make sure there is no damage larger than 10mm and no obstructing items or stickers in the central view area.
If you are looking to get a Class 4,5 or 7 MOT completed quickly by a reputable and reliable garage and you are in the Ellesmere and surrounding area - call us. We can book you in at a time to suit you, and even offer free local collection and delivery for your convenience.
Being a specialist MOT and service garage, we can help your vehicle pass and stay safe on our Shropshire roads and beyond!