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The MOT scheme is primarily a road safety measure designed to ensure as far as possible that all cars, motorcycles and light goods vehicles more than 3 years old:
1. Are properly maintained
2. At least once a year are examined at an authorised MOT test station to make sure that they comply with certain important requirements of the law
Remember- the test certificate relates only to the condition of the testable items at the time of the test and should not be regarded as evidence of their condition at any other time; nor should it be accepted as evidence of the general mechanical condition of the vehicle.
Your Car and the MOT
If you have a car that is more than 3 years old it will need an MOT test each year to ensure that it meets at least the minimum road safety and environmental standards.
The test relates only to the condition of the testable items at the time of the test. It should not be regarded as evidence of the condition of the items tested at any other time nor should it be taken as evidence of the general mechanical condition of the vehicle
The test
MOT's are undertaken at garages authorised by the Vehicle Inspectorate to carry out the tests. They are easily identifiable by the blue, 3 triangle MOT Sign.
What items are examined in the MOT test?
Lighting Equipment, Stop Lamps, Reflectors, and Direction Indicators
Front and rear position lamps, rear registration plate lamps, rear fog lampsHeadlampsStoplampsRear reflectorsDirection indicators and hazard warning devicesHeadlamp aim
Steering (including suspension)
Steering controlSteering systemPower steeringSuspension - generalFront suspension, front wheel bearings and driveshaftsRear suspension and rear wheel bearingsShock absorbers
Brakes
Parking brake lever mechanismHand operated brake control valvesService brake controlAnti-lock braking systemMechanical brake componentsHydraulic, air and vacuum systemsBrake performance
Tyres
TyresRoadwheels
Seat Belts
Seatbelts
General Items
Drivers view of the roadWipersWashersWindscreenAudible warning (horn)Exhaust systemExhaust emissions -petrol & dieselGeneral condition of vehicle -vehicle structurebody securitybody conditiondoorsload securityspare wheel and carrierseatsMirrorsFuel systemRegistration plates and VIN details