According to DVSA data, over 33% of vehicles and vans fail their MOT on the first try in the UK.
It is tough if you fail your MOT. Then it also becomes costly because you must pay to fix the things before you take another test. Even so, if you, the driver, perform routine maintenance on your car, van, or road bike using a pre-MOT checklist, you may be able to avoid a few of the most prevalent MOT failures and keep your vehicle roadworthy. Don’t worry if you’re not sure where to start.
This is a quick and simple MOT Test Bolton guideline with 7 key things to verify before your MOT to ensure your vehicle passes with flying colours.
What exactly is an MOT? What does it refer to?
In the United Kingdom, all cars over three years should have an MOT test and its certificate every year to ensure that they are roadworthy. MOT stands for Ministry of Transport, which refers to an MOT expert’s final inspection of a car, van, or motorcycle.
What is tested during an MOT?
An MOT test is a comprehensive, full-service vehicle inspection that covers everything from car safety to vehicle safety and emissions.
A service professional will investigate the vehicle using a vehicle inspection checklist. It must fulfil all MOT requirements and regulations in order to pass.
What should I bring to an MOT? What documents are required?
It is not necessary to bring many files to your MOT exam. Take your V5C vehicle registration document if your vehicle has previously passed an MOT, but don’t worry if it is a new car.. The centre ought to be able to locate your information online.
What tends to happen if your vehicle fails its MOT?
If your vehicle starts to fail its MOT test, it will not get a MOT certificate. Also it will be illegal to drive on public roads.
You will be issued a VT30 ‘Refusal of a MOT Test Certificate’ by the test centre. Keep this because it will detail the reason(s) for the MOT rejection. Then, call your local professional car service department and present them the VT30.
Driving without a legitimate MOT certificate is illegal and may result in fines, points on your licence, or a driving ban.
Checklist for Your MOT
Given below is a pre-MOT checklist full of simple stuff to check before your MOT test to give your car the best opportunity of passing.
1. Indicators & Headlights
Before your MOT, check that all of your headlights and indicators are working properly.
Fog lights, warning lights, sidelights, and back lights are all included. During the test, the orientation of the headlights will be checked to ensure that they do not blind moving cars.
2. Stop Lights
Inspect your brake lights by having a friend stand in a safe location behind your car while you press your feet on the ground on the brake pedal.
3. Tyres & wheels
Tyres are among the most likely causes for an MOT test failure. Inspect your tyres meticulously to ensure they’re all in the right place with regards to the vehicle. Examine the wheels for any slashing or bulges and the rims for any damage.
You must also double-check the tread depth on your tyres. The legal minimum tread depth is 1.6mm, but security professionals frequently recommend 3mm.
4. Windshield
We advise you to thoroughly inspect your windscreen for fractures or bits. Chips in the driver’s line of sight must be less than 10mm in order to successfully complete the MOT test. Other fractures on the windscreen can measure up to 40mm in length. Consider removing any air fresheners or navigation systems that may be impeding your view.
5. Windshield Wipers
Your windscreen blinkers will be tested extensively during a MOT to ensure that they can splash sufficient liquid onto the windscreen to clear your vision.
As a result, it’s a good idea to test them ahead of time, including verifying the rubber blades.
6. Screen Cleaning
It may seem insignificant, but were you aware that a blank screen wash vessel can cause a MOT failure? Most respectable garages will top you up and charge you for the fluid, but we say check and fill it anyway.
7. Engine Oil and Fuel
Did you know that testers have the power to decline to test vehicles with insufficient liquid levels? We recommend that you have enough fuel in your vehicle when you go for Car Repair Bolton. Because the MOT technician will operate the engine for a few minutes to perform the fuel emissions tests.