MOT Checklist

MOT Checklist: What Gets Checked and Why

Ensuring your vehicle passes its MOT test is crucial for your safety and legal compliance. The MOT test is an annual inspection mandated in the UK for vehicles over three years old, designed to ensure that your car meets road safety and environmental standards.

Understanding what gets checked during an MOT and the reasons behind these inspections can help you maintain your vehicle and increase the likelihood of passing the test. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the MOT checklist and why each component is important.

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

What Gets Checked: The tester will verify that the VIN is present and legible.

Why: The VIN is crucial for identifying the vehicle. Ensuring the VIN is correct guarantees that the car being tested matches its registration details.

Registration Plate

What Gets Checked: Condition, security, and legibility of the registration plates; correct format.

Why: Proper registration plates are necessary for vehicle identification and to comply with legal standards.

Lights

What Gets Checked: Condition, operation, security, and correct colour of headlights, rear lights, indicators, and brake lights.

Why: Properly functioning lights are essential for visibility and for signalling your intentions to other road users, thereby enhancing safety.

Steering and Suspension

What Gets Checked: Steering wheel, columns, mountings, power steering, and suspension components.

Why: Ensuring these parts are in good condition is vital for maintaining control of the vehicle and providing a smooth ride.

Wipers and Washer Bottle

What Gets Checked: Operation and effectiveness of wipers; presence and functionality of the washer bottle.

Why: Effective wipers and washers are essential for maintaining a clear view through the windscreen, especially in adverse weather conditions.

Windscreen

What Gets Checked: Condition of the windscreen; chips or cracks in the driver’s line of sight.

Why: A clear and intact windscreen is necessary for unobstructed visibility and safe driving.

Horn

What Gets Checked: Operation and suitability.

Why: A working horn is needed to alert other road users of your presence, especially in emergencies.

Seat Belts

What Gets Checked: Security, condition, and operation of seat belts.

Why: Seat belts are critical for occupant safety in the event of a collision.

Seats

What Gets Checked: Security of the driver’s seat and other seats.

Why: Securely fixed seats are important for safety and comfort.

Fuel System

What Gets Checked: No leaks; cap fastens securely.

Why: A secure and leak-free fuel system prevents fires and ensures the engine runs efficiently.

Exhaust System and Emissions

What Gets Checked: Security, condition, and emissions of the exhaust system.

Why: Properly functioning exhaust systems reduce pollution and noise while ensuring the vehicle meets legal emissions standards.

Vehicle Structure

What Gets Checked: No excessive corrosion or damage, especially in load-bearing areas.

Why: Structural integrity is crucial for the vehicle’s safety in the event of an accident.

Doors

What Gets Checked: Operation of doors, including the latches; front doors must open from inside and outside.

Why: Functional doors are necessary for entry and exit, especially in emergencies.

Mirrors

What Gets Checked: Condition and security of rear-view and wing mirrors.

Why: Mirrors are essential for monitoring traffic and ensuring safe manoeuvring.

Tyres and Wheels

What Gets Checked: Condition, security, tyre tread depth, and type.

Why: Tyres are the only contact point between the vehicle and the road. Proper tread depth and condition are vital for traction, handling, and safety.

Brakes

What Gets Checked: Condition, operation, and performance of brakes, including the brake pedal, servo, and brake pads.

Why: Effective brakes are critical for stopping the vehicle safely and preventing accidents.

Battery

What Gets Checked: Security and condition of the battery.

Why: A securely fastened and well-maintained battery ensures reliable starting and electrical functionality.

Electronic Stability Control (ESC)

What Gets Checked: Functionality of the ESC system, if fitted.

Why: ESC systems help maintain control of the vehicle during extreme steering manoeuvres, enhancing safety.

Regular maintenance and understanding this checklist can not only help you pass your MOT but also ensure your vehicle remains safe and roadworthy throughout the year. Stay proactive about vehicle care to enjoy smoother, safer drives and avoid unexpected failures during your MOT test.

If you would like to book your car or motorcycle in for an MOT, repairs or servicing, please do not hesitate to contact us at Pantech Auto Technicians today.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *