Why Bother With Pre MOT Test Checks?
Taking your car for its annual MOT test can feel like a necessary ordeal, fraught with the worry of unexpected failures. However, a proactive approach, involving a few straightforward pre MOT test checks performed by you, can make all the difference. These checks aren't about becoming a mechanic; they're about spotting the obvious issues that are commonly flagged during the official inspection. By identifying and rectifying potential problems beforehand, you not only increase your chances of a clean pass but also avoid the inconvenience and cost of a retest. It's about taking control and ensuring your vehicle meets the required safety and environmental standards without unwelcome surprises.
Many drivers leave the entire inspection to the test centre, only to be met with a list of advisories or, worse, a failure notice. This often means a return visit, additional expense, and the frustration of not being able to use your vehicle until it's repaired. The MOT test guidelines are clear about what constitutes a roadworthy vehicle, and a few minutes spent on pre MOT test checks can prevent many of the common reasons for failure. Think of it as a vital part of vehicle ownership, ensuring not just compliance but also your safety and the safety of others on the road. Even if your car is electric car MOT exempt, understanding these checks can still be beneficial for general maintenance.
Invest a little time before your MOT appointment; it often saves you significant time and money post-test.
Common MOT Failure Points
The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) publishes MOT test guidelines that detail all the checks undertaken. While the full list is extensive, many failures stem from a few recurring areas. These include problems with lighting (bulbs not working, incorrect colour), tyres (insufficient tread depth, damage, incorrect pressures), brakes (performance issues, leaks), and wipers/washers (not functioning). Other frequent issues involve windscreen chips or cracks, excessive exhaust emissions, and even minor bodywork damage that could pose a hazard. Understanding these common pitfalls is the first step in effective pre MOT test checks.
Your Pre MOT Test Checklist: Step-by-Step
Preparing your car for its MOT doesn't require a fully equipped garage. Many essential checks can be done with minimal tools and a bit of observation. The goal is to simulate some of the key inspections the MOT tester will perform, focusing on areas that are easy to assess and commonly fail.
Exterior Checks
Begin with the obvious. Walk around your car and check all lights: headlights (both main and dipped beams), tail lights, brake lights, indicators, and fog lights. Ensure they are all working and the lenses are clean and undamaged. Next, inspect your tyres. Look for any cuts, bulges, or excessive wear on the sidewalls. The tread depth must be at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the breadth of the tread. You can use a tyre tread depth gauge or a 20p coin; if the inner band of the coin is visible when placed in the tread, it's likely below the legal limit. Check tyre pressures are correct according to your vehicle's manual, as incorrect pressures can affect handling and wear.
Windscreen and Wipers
Examine your windscreen for any chips or cracks. A chip larger than 10mm anywhere on the windscreen, or a crack over 40mm in the driver's line of sight, will result in an MOT failure. Ensure your windscreen wipers are functioning correctly and that the blades aren't perished or leaving streaks. Test the windscreen washers too; the fluid reservoir should be topped up, and the jets should spray effectively.
Under the Bonnet (Simple Checks)
While you don't need to be an expert, a quick look under the bonnet can reveal potential issues. Check the engine oil and coolant levels. Ensure there are no obvious leaks from hoses or pipes. Check the brake fluid level; it should be between the minimum and maximum marks. Also, confirm your horn is working correctly – it should emit a clear, continuous sound.
Interior Checks
Inside, check that all seatbelts function correctly, locking and retracting smoothly. Ensure the driver's seat is adjustable. Test the operation of all door locks and ensure no warning lights are illuminated on the dashboard that shouldn't be. The handbrake should hold the vehicle firmly when applied.
Bodywork and Chassis
Visually inspect the bodywork for any sharp edges or protruding parts that could be a hazard. While the MOT testers will inspect the chassis more thoroughly, obvious signs of severe corrosion or damage might be worth noting. Don't forget to check your exhaust system for any signs of damage or excessive noise, which could indicate a problem.
- Check all lights are working and lenses are clear.
- Ensure tyre tread depth is above 1.6mm and no damage is visible.
- Inspect windscreen for chips/cracks over 10mm/40mm respectively.
- Verify seatbelts lock and retract properly.
What Happens if a Pre MOT Test Check Fails?
If any of your pre MOT test checks reveal a potential issue, don't panic. The purpose of these checks is precisely to identify such problems before the official test. For many common issues, a straightforward fix is all that's needed. For example, a blown bulb is easily replaced, and tyre tread can be topped up or tyres replaced. Windscreen chips may be repairable by specialist services if they fall within the permissible limits. For more complex issues identified during your pre MOT test checks, such as brake problems or exhaust damage, it's advisable to consult a qualified mechanic. They can diagnose the fault accurately and perform the necessary repairs to bring your vehicle up to standard.
The key is to address these findings promptly. If you find something that needs attention, get it sorted. This might involve ordering parts, visiting a garage, or simply performing a DIY fix. The sooner you tackle it, the less likely it is to cause a problem during the official MOT test. Remember, the MOT test is a safety inspection, and while it might seem like a hurdle, its aim is to ensure your vehicle is safe to drive. An MOT advisory notice, for instance, flags a potential issue that isn't severe enough to cause a failure now but should be monitored or addressed soon. These notices are also a valuable part of your pre MOT test checks for future maintenance.
The proactive driver who performs pre MOT test checks is the one most likely to drive away with a pass certificate, not a repair bill.
Understanding MOT Failure and Advisories
When your car undergoes its official MOT test, the examiner will classify any defects found. 'Dangerous' defects result in an immediate failure and the vehicle cannot be driven. 'Major' defects also lead to failure but might allow the vehicle to be driven under specific conditions to a pre-booked repair appointment. 'Minor' defects are usually passed but will be recorded as advisories. An MOT advisory is not a failure, but it highlights a component that may need attention in the near future, potentially becoming a failure point at the next MOT. Therefore, paying attention to these advisories during your pre MOT test checks can help prevent future failures. For example, if a previous advisory noted slightly worn brake pads, you would check their condition thoroughly during your own pre MOT test checks.
When Will a New Car Need Its First MOT Test?
For many new car owners, the question of when their vehicle will first require an MOT test is a common one. The regulations are designed to ensure vehicles are safe from a reasonable age. A brand-new car, typically registered for the first time, is exempt from needing an MOT test for the first three years of its life. This means you don't need to worry about pre MOT test checks or the test itself for the first 36 months. This exemption applies to most passenger vehicles, including cars and motorcycles.
However, there are exceptions. Commercial vehicles like vans and lorries generally have different rules. Also, if your vehicle has been modified in certain ways or previously registered elsewhere, it might require an earlier MOT. It is always best to check the specific regulations for your vehicle type. Once the three-year period passes, your vehicle will then need to undergo its first MOT test. It is crucial to remember the MOT test due date to avoid driving a vehicle with an expired MOT certificate. Many drivers find it helpful to set reminders or use services that notify them when their MOT is due.
Utilise the government's MOT test reminder service or set a digital alert well in advance of your car's due date.
Checking Your MOT Status
Wondering when your car's MOT is due or if it's currently valid? The government provides an online service where you can check your vehicle's MOT status history. All you need is your vehicle's registration number. This service will tell you when your MOT test is due, the results of previous tests, and any advisories noted. It's an invaluable tool for keeping track of your vehicle's roadworthiness and planning your pre MOT test checks. This also helps you understand when your car will need its first MOT test after its initial exemption period. For electric cars, while they are subject to MOT tests, specific checks related to their powertrains might differ, but basic safety elements remain consistent.
Understanding the MOT test process and performing your own pre MOT test checks empowers you as a vehicle owner. It's not just about ticking a box; it's about maintaining a safe, reliable vehicle. By familiarising yourself with common failure points and conducting these simple checks regularly, you can avoid unexpected costs and ensure your car is always roadworthy.