Introduction
MOT tests are a type of car inspection that is mandatory in the UK. This can be done at any time but is often required before buying a vehicle or when selling your current one. An MOT test will check all of the components in your car to ensure that it meets safety and legal standards. The list above shows what each component checks for, as well as how long it should take to perform each test on average.
MOT Check List
It must be carried out every year or 12 months, depending on the nationality of your vehicle.
The MOT test checklist includes:
- Brakes – including ABS (anti-lock braking system) and TPMS (tire pressure monitoring system)
- Lights – including indicators, side mirrors, headlights and tail lights
- Horns – if fitted
You may visit our garage for brakes, lights, horns and car battery Coventry.
The Lights
The lights in your car are a major part of whether you pass the MOT test. If they’re not working, what’s to stop a faulty bulb from ruining your chances?
- Headlights: Make sure both headlights are working and there are no cracks or chips in them. Check that all bulbs work properly, including headlight washer fluid (if applicable) and turn signals (if present). If you have fog lights fitted, ensure they work too.
- Rear Lights: Make sure rear lights are clearly visible at night, as well as during any weather conditions such as clear skies and heavy rain/snowfall where they may be hidden by other traffic.
Vehicle Structure
- Check that the vehicle structure is not damaged, corroded or weakened.
- Check that the vehicle structure is not distorted.
Tire Tread & Pressure
The tire tread is the part of your tire that makes contact with the road. It’s important to check this because it can affect your car’s handling, performance and safety.
Tread depth – The tread should be deep enough to cover a minimum of 4mm (1/6 inch) of rubber when measured at any point between two edges of their surface area. If there are cuts or bulges in the sidewall then these could cause damage when driving over uneven surfaces such as potholes or rough roads.
Pressure – The air pressure inside each tyre must be within 0–10 kPa (0-1 bar). A reading between 5 and 8 kPa (0–0.5 bar) is acceptable but if you notice excessive noise while driving then this suggests that either your vehicle requires repair work or replacement tyres due to excessive wear caused by incorrect inflation levels.
Bodywork
Bodywork is the exterior of a vehicle. This includes all of the doors, bonnet and boot, but it also includes things like bumpers and mirrors. Bodywork check includes rust and corrosion, damage caused by weathering or wear over time (such as scratches), paint quality (such as scratches or chips), etc.
Seat Belts & Seats
- Seat belts must be in good condition.
- Securely fastened.
- Fitted to the correct seat.
- The seat belt webbing should not be stretched over a portion of its length or distorted. There should not be any fraying or damage to any part of it; this includes stitching at either end of the webbing which may have come undone due to wear and tear over time.
Windscreen and Glass
- Windscreen and Glass
- Windscreen wipers
- Indicators, headlights and brake lights.
- Rear number plate light (if fitted)
Steering & Suspension
- Steering & Suspension
The steering system should be free of leaks and excessive play. Suspension components such as shock absorbers, springs and bushings should be in good condition with no signs of leakage.
Battery and Exhaust System
There are several things that you can check for during your MOT test. These include:
- Battery condition
- Exhaust system condition (including the exhaust pipe and silencer)
- Exhaust emissions
The most important thing here is to ensure that there isn’t any kind of damage causing problems with either one of these parts so they don’t affect their ability to pass MOT requirements.
Conclusion
As you can see, there’s a lot packed into an MOT Coventry check. You may find yourself looking at a fine if you don’t do your best to pass the test. In particular, check that all lights and indicators are working and that the vehicle is roadworthy before driving away from the garage – otherwise there could be serious consequences for both driver and passengers!
