About the MOT
What is checked during an MOT?
During the MOT there are many items which are checked. Using our online guide you can check many of the items yourself to help you pass your MOT first time.
Your Suspension and Steering
Here the tester will check the movement and condition of the car's steering and steering column. Under the bonnet the tester will check the security and condition of steering and suspension mounts. The tester will also be looking for corrosion, cracking or any bolts that are loose or missing. Underneath your vehicle the tester will be inspecting all four wheels for excessive wear to the steering, suspension joints and mounting.
Tyres
The tester will check the treads on your tyres to make sure that they are at least 1.6mm deep across the central three quarters of the tread width around the whole tyre. Tyres on the same axle will be inspected to ensure they are the same structure, type and size. Each tyre will also be checked for bulges or cuts.
Brakes
Inside the vehicle the tester checks that the break pedal has an anti-slip device in good condition and that all your break lights work. Also the tester will ensure that your hand break holds the vehicle on its ratchet and that the break pedal does not reach the floor. The tester will check outside the vehicle for any damage to break pipes, hand break cables or for any brake fluid leaks. Break pads will also be checked and will be inspected to ensure there is at least 1.5mm of friction material on the pads.
Lights
Your lights will be tested to ensure they are working properly, of good condition and are the correct colour. Your hazard lights will be checked when the ignition is off and on. The tester will also go through and check all of the following: number plate lights, indicators lights, two rear reflectors, stop lights, headlights and side lights. The indicators, hazard signal and rear fog lights will also be checked that there is both visual and audible signals which can be heard or seen from the driver's seat.
(If your vehicle was registered after the 1st of April 1986 then you must have hazard warning lights and side indicator lights. If your car was registered after 1st of April 1980 it must also have a rear fog light.)Seatbelts
During the MOT the tester will check the seatbelts inside the vehicle. They are checking that the seatbelts are mounted correctly, the locking/release mechanism is working as it should and that the belts are not frayed or cut.
General
Registration Plates
Your registration plates need to be securely fitted and not faded. The letters need to be of the correct size, space and be readable from 20 meters.
Exhaust System
Your exhaust system will be inspected to ensure there are no major leaks and that it is in good condition. The tester will also be checking that the exhaust is not making excessive noise.
Emissions
The tester checks the amount of carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons emitted from the vehicle using a special meter. During a test if the vehicle has a catalytic converter fitted the garage will check the air/fuel ratios.
Diesel cars are checked using specialist equipment at very high speeds so as a result the MOT tester will check the calm-belt and engine oil level to verify the vehicle can cope with the high speed.
Vehicle Horn
The car's horn is also checked to ensure it is loud enough and delivers a constant tone.
Wipers and Washers
During the test your washers and wipers will be checked to ensure they clean the windscreen and are in good condition.
Windscreen
The vehicles windscreen will be checked for any chips or cracks. Any chips, cracks or stickers found over 10mm in the area in front of the driver's seat, about the width of the steering wheel will cause your car to fail. In the windscreen swept area any stickers, chips or cracks over 40mm will again cause the car to fail.
Physical State of the Vehicle
The tester is checking for any major corrosion or welding repairs, which could make the vehicle unsafe. During this check the physical state of your vehicle will be inspected by the tester who will check the body, boot lid, doors, mirrors, fuel cap and seats of the car.
If my car failed do I have to pay for a second test?
If your car failed on one of the items listed below and you have since repaired the faults and returned the vehicle for a retest before the end of the next working day, then your MOT will be free of charge.
ABS warning light
Boot lid
Brake pedal anti-slip device
Direction indicators
Doors
Drop-sides
Exhaust emissions
Fuel filler cap
Hazard lights
Headlamp aim
Horn
Lamps
Loading door
Mirrors
Rear reflectors
Registration plates
Seats
Seat belts (not anchorages)
Sharp edges of projections
Steering wheel
Tailboard
Tailgate
VIN number
Windscreens
Windscreen washer and wipers
