An MOT (Ministry of Transport) test is an annual test that is required by law for vehicles in the UK that are over three years old. The test ensures that the vehicle meets the minimum safety and environmental standards set by the government. In this checklist, we will go through the different parts of the car that are checked during an MOT test.
Exterior
Lights: All lights on the car must be working correctly, including headlights, sidelights, brake lights, indicators, and hazard lights. The lenses must be clean and not cracked or damaged.
Registration plate: The registration plate must be clearly visible and legible.
Horn: Check if the horn functions correctly and is loud enough to be heard by other on the road.
Windscreen: The windscreen must be free from cracks or chips that could obstruct the driver’s view.
Wipers and washers: The wipers and washers must be working correctly to ensure clear visibility in wet weather.
Mirrors: All mirrors on the car must be present and correctly adjusted to provide the driver with a clear view of the road behind.
Interior:
Seatbelts: All seatbelts in the car must be present, functioning correctly, and not damaged.
Seats: The driver’s seat must be securely mounted, and all seat adjustments must work correctly.
Dashboard warning lights: All dashboard warning lights must illuminate when the ignition is turned on and go out once the engine is running.
Steering wheel: The steering wheel should not have excessive play and must be securely mounted.
Gearstick: The gearstick should move smoothly between gears, and the clutch should engage and disengage smoothly.
Under the bonnet:
Engine oil: The engine oil level should be between the minimum and maximum marks on the dipstick.
Engine coolant: The engine coolant level should be between the minimum and maximum marks on the coolant reservoir.
Brake fluid: The brake fluid level should be between the minimum and maximum marks on the brake fluid reservoir.
Power steering fluid: If your car has power steering, the fluid level should be between the minimum and maximum marks on the power steering reservoir.
Battery: The battery should be securely mounted, and there should be no signs of corrosion or damage to the terminals or cables.
Brakes:
Brake pads and discs: The brake pads and discs should have sufficient thickness and not show excessive wear or damage.
Brake performance: The brakes should perform correctly, with no pulling to one side or sponginess in the pedal.
Handbrake: The handbrake should hold the car securely when applied and release smoothly.
Wheels and tyres:
Tyre condition: Tyres should have sufficient tread depth (at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre) and not show any signs of damage or bulges.
Tyre pressure: Tyres should be inflated to the correct pressure as specified in the owner’s manual.
Wheel condition: Wheels should not show any signs of damage or cracks.
Exhaust:
Exhaust emissions: The car’s exhaust emissions will be tested to ensure that they are within legal limits for your vehicle’s age and type.
Exhaust condition: The exhaust system should be secure and not show any signs of damage or excessive corrosion.
By following this checklist, you can ensure that your car is in good condition for its MOT test. If you have any concerns about your car’s condition, it’s always best to have it checked by a professional mechanic before taking it for its test.