Pre-MOT checklist

Over 7 million automobiles fail their yearly MOT, according to the most recent DVSA data. The MOT specialists have provided a pre-MOT Tooting checklist in light of this in order for you to pass it without a hitch and also conserve fuel.

A Ministry of Transport, or MOT, Test verifies that your car is roadworthy and complies with DVSA regulatory safety and environmental regulations by examining its overall condition and all of its parts.

Signaling and lighting

Lighting-related problems, like a blown bulb, a broken indicator, or an inoperative number plate light, are the primary causes of MOT failures. 

When performing your pre-MOT inspection, take a close look around your car and ask a friend or family member to make sure all the lights are on, including the brake, side, and number plate lights. 

Fluids

Make careful to top it off before your MOT because fluids like screenwash will get tested.

Your car’s engine must have enough oil in it to pass the exhaust emissions test as well.

Make sure the tank has enough petrol because your tester will also need to test the emissions. 

It’s a good idea to top off engine coolant and other vital fluids while you go through our pre-MOT checklist. 

Suspension and steering 

The majority of auto failures are due to suspension problems, such as a leaky shock absorber or a snapped coil spring. Since it’s difficult to see them while parked, while driving, keep an eye out for any strange noises or odd driving habits when cornering or braking. 

Structure, chassis, and body 

You risk failing the test if your car has corrosion or rust within 12 cm of a structurally significant location. Additionally, if there are any sharp edges that may cut someone, this could lead to failure.

Brakes 

Brake faults discovered during the MOT brake efficiency test are the cause of MOT failures. This is typically caused by worn brake discs, worn brake pads, or both.

Check each one carefully because you might be able to see the pads and discs through your alloy wheels. 

Tyres

The middle three-quarters of the tyre must have 1.6mm of tread depth to comply with the law. The 20p test can be also used to determine this. Put a penny into each tire’s tread groove. The tread is less than 1.6mm if the 20p coin’s outside band is visible.

Number plates 

Number plates are an essential component of any MOT checklist because they are also tested during the MOT. This falls under the MOT’s identification of the vehicle section and constituted 1% of all MOT failures. The British Number Plate Manufacturers Association states that these need to be fully laminated, completely visible, and damage-free. They are not allowed to have any backdrop overprinting, fixes, or elements that would impair their ability to see the law.

Windscreen

You should thoroughly check your windscreen for cracks and chipping. A chip must be less than 10mm from the driver’s line of sight in order to pass the MOT test. The length of other windscreen fractures could reach 40mm. Get rid of any air fresheners or satnavs that might be blocking your view, too.

windscreen washers 

To ensure they can spray enough liquid onto the windshield to clear your visibility when driving in the rain, your windshield wipers will go through a rigorous test during a MOT. Consequently, it is advisable to test them out ahead while paying attention to the rubber blades.

Gasoline and motor oil

Did you know that testers have the option to decline testing automobiles with low fluid levels? As the MOT technician will run the engine for a few minutes to perform the fuel emissions testing, we advise making sure your car has adequate fuel in the tank. Additionally, check your oil level by looking at the amount it reaches on the dipstick, and if necessary, top it off. It simply takes a short while.

 

The easiest approach to pass your MOT Tooting is to frequently service your car, van, or motorcycle in order to stay on top of any issues and have a road-worthy vehicle.