"Everything about the MOT test you should know"
"Template Blogs- MOT repairs"
[ "Everything about the MOT test you should knowA car should be tested every 12 months if it is more than 3 years old and before being taxed for the first time (this may not apply to new cars). This is a general rule in the UK. If your test expires during a month when you can't book a suitable slot, you must either tax the vehicle or cancel the test. This is a legal requirement.The MOT is a legal test that ensures the roadworthiness of your vehicle. People often have confusion about the MOT. So, here is everything you need to knowHow long does the test take?Assuming you have booked at least a week in advance of when you want the test done, there are usually between three and six slots per working day. During busy periods there might only be one or two available times per working day - these are likely to be at concise notice. But it's worth trying, as they might become available again. When you receive your appointment letter, you should allow at least 60-90 minutes for the testThis is because it's a good idea to allow extra time if anything goes wrong (e.g., if there is an accident or roadworks nearby) and to make sure you get through the queue quickly enough. There may be queues on busy days, and we recommend arriving about 15 minutes before your slot startsOn quieter days, you might not need to arrive any earlier than 10-15 minutes beforehand - however, it's worth checking online or by phoning first in case your preferred times have suddenly become available again! Tests can take up to 30 minutes, but most are much quicker than around five minutes for most vehicles.What happens during an MOT test?A standard car MOT test will involve several checks on different aspects of your vehicle, including:Test 1 - A check on your vehicle's lights and indicators. If they are not working correctly or modified, this will affect the MOT result.Includes:Direction indicatorsHazard warning lightsPosition lamps (including hazard warning lamps)Front and rear position lampsRear reflectors;Test 2 - Check that your vehicle is in a safe condition and free from excessive noise and smoke. Includes: Exhaust system (including equipment to control exhaust emissions)Brake tests (disc/drum/fluid condition & efficiency) Parts of the brake test include: Brake pedal reserve Brake lining wear indicator Drum runout limit Wheel cylinder leakage Fluid level Check Anti-lock braking system (ABS)Electrical wiring condition and connectionsSeat belt anchorages, safeties, and releasing devicesSafety belts (rear seats);Test 3 - Check that your vehicle's steering is in a safe condition. Includes:;Steering linkage (including the track rod ends, king-pins & ball joints)Brake fluid leaks Steering wheel play or wandering.What happens during an MOT test?Check for any signs of severe damage to the engine, transmission, suspension, steering, etc. If this damage affects driving safety or has been caused by poor maintenance or disrepair, it will affect the MOT result. Car MOT testers will be looking out for evidence of oil leaks, coolant leaks, electrical issues, and corrosion.The MOT test also includes checking the tyre condition on your vehicle's wheels to see if they are in a safe condition to be on the road. This will consist of checking that their tread depth is more than 1mm across three-quarters of its width on each of the front tyres (the front two tyres if it has four) and around one-third of the width across three-quarters of its width at the back - although this only applies for vehicles first used after 1st September 2001. For this reason, you should make sure your car is outfitted with matching pairs of tyres if possible. The tester will also look for uneven tyre wear, suggesting that they may not have been rotated regularly. You should get the vehicle repaired regularly as the Template Blogs- MOT repairs can ensure a clear MOT pass result." ]