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AutoMobiles, Vehicles

The ABCs of MOT: Everything You Need to Know About Your Car’s Testing

Author Roberts Tyres, 11 months ago | 5 min read | 182

Getting your vehicle tested for MOT is often seen as a time-taking and challenging task. But it doesn’t have to! If you knew every trivial bit of information that could help you pass the MOT test, wouldn’t it be easier? This becomes even more essential for beginner car owners. Such information helps you ace the test successfully too! Besides, you also need to repair and service your car for a successful testing. And it is not easy to find the right centre for such services. You need experienced and skilled testers and technicians to help you understand your vehicle completely. This article is to help you in achieving that. Find out every basic information about MOT in Brandon and service centres with this beginner’s guide.

What is the MOT?

This is the most frequently asked question from car owners about the MOT. Many vehicle owners, especially beginners are not well-versed with the MOT tests and procedures. In simplest terms, the MOT is a government-specified test that checks your vehicle’s safety standards, emission standards, and overall roadworthiness. This test is compulsory for every vehicle that has crossed the age of 3 years and must be completed every 12 months. When the test was initially introduced in the UK, it consisted of a few basic checks for your vehicle, but now it has become a comprehensive test that inspects around 20 parts and components of your vehicle.

The MOT was introduced by the Ministry of Transport, which has been abbreviated to form the term MOT. Now known as the Department of Transport, it is responsible for overseeing the transport network of the state, along with controlling vehicle emissions, managing the safety and emission standards and the future of transport, or solving any transport-related security and civil issues.

MOT certificates:

The status of your vehicle regarding the MOT is reported on the MOT certificate, which is typically of two types. The VT 20 certificate, which you get when your vehicle passes the MOT. This certificate claims that your vehicle has exceeded the standards of safety and emissions, making it roadworthy. The VT 20 certificate is valid for the next 12 months, after which you will be required to get your vehicle tested again. If your vehicle fails the MOT, there could be many reasons for it. These are called ‘defects’ and they are classified as ‘minor’, ‘major’, and ‘dangerous’ defects. Although minor defects would not always fail your car, major and dangerous defects deem your vehicle unsafe to drive. The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency, also called DVSA, is responsible for these certificates and advisories.

Pay attention to the details:

During the test, a variety of parts are checked for proper functioning. Excluding clutch, gearbox, and engine, all other car parts are tested. From the bonnet to tyres, exhaust system, doors, and any other part: they are all examined for their proper condition. You could fail the test for even minor issues such as a dirty boot, untapped screen wash, and stickers blocking the driver’s view. Hence, it is necessary to keep attention on the details for you to pass the test.

What is the ‘class’ of your vehicle?

To ensure smooth MOT testing, vehicles are divided into classes based on their types and models. There are seven classes, and before getting your vehicle tested, you need to know your vehicle falls under which category. Class 1 and 2 are for motorcycles, while 3 has three-wheeled vehicles. Class 4 is reserved for 9 to 12 seater vehicles, such as caravans. Class 5 has vehicles with 13 or more passenger seats. Both class 4 and 5 include ambulances. Any public service vehicle falls under class 6, and class 7 has goods-carrying vehicles.

Choose a trusted centre

Now that you have the basic understanding of the MOT test, you must be thinking about the centre you should choose. There are numerous benefits you can enjoy if you choose a reputed centre for your next MOT test. Here are some of them:

  • Skilled Testers: When you choose a reputed centre for your MOT, you are trusting your vehicle in the hands of a team of experienced and skilled testers. Their testers are trained and certified by the DVSA authorities and are experienced in handling every type of vehicle models and types. So, whether you are driving a motorcycle or a good vehicle, they can provide the most accurate results efficiently.
  • State-of-the-art Equipment: Reputable auto centres use only the most advanced equipment that offers the most accurate and efficient results for your vehicle’s MOT. Besides being advanced, these technologies are also approved by the DVSA, so you can be rest assured that your vehicle is getting tested according to government-specified rules and regulations.
  • Pre-test Services: If you are worried that your vehicle might fail the MOT, you can get your vehicle serviced beforehand. The right centre will offer you a comprehensive service that covers every part and component of your vehicle, so you can be relaxed for the MOT test.
  • Accessible: You should be able to reach your centre easily. A convenient location adds up to an easy servicing and testing.

Worried about your car’s MOT as a beginner? Opt for regular car servicing to maintain its safety and emission standards, and you are good to go! Prepare for your MOT in Evedon with our pre-MOT services and checks to enjoy a smooth testing.