MOT Test Checks ⋆ M60Autos.co.uk

MOT Test Checks

Class 7 MOTs

If you need an MOT for your van or light commercial vehicle, at M60 Autos we have a number of MOT test centres with facilities especially designed to carry out class 7 MOTs on vehicles weighing 3,000-3,500kg. Contact your local Class 7 MOT centre to book.

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What is an MOT?

MOT testing is required by law on all vehicles in the UK that are 3 years old or more. The annual inspection follows strict criteria set out by the DVSA that determines if your car is fit for purpose and in roadworthy condition. The MOT test covers a broad range of vehicle safety checks including lights, tyres, seatbelts and emissions and can only be carried out by an MOT garage with DVSA-approved examiners. For a full list of what is included in an MOT when you have your test at M60 utos, see our MOT checklist.

During the MOT test the nominated tester, a person accredited by the DVSA to assess your vehicle, will conduct a comprehensive inspection to ensure the vehicle is in roadworthy condition. However, it is not the same as having your vehicle serviced and the MOT test does not check the general mechanical condition of the vehicle. Also, the assessment is based on the condition of the vehicle on the day.

If the vehicle passes, the nominated tester will separately list and inform you of any ‘advisory’ or ‘minor’ items that will require attention in the near future so you can keep an eye on them.

If the vehicle fails, you may be entitled to a free re-test.

How often do you need an MOT?

All vehicles 3 years old or more are required to have a valid MOT test certificate which should be renewed annually. It is your responsibility to ensure your vehicle is examined every 12 months. You can find the expiry date of your MOT on your existing MOT test certificate and you can have your vehicle MOT tested up to 28 days in advance. The expiry date on your new MOT is 12 months from the expiry of your old one rather than 12 months from the day you took the test, so as long as your MOT test is due in the next 28 days, you won’t lose any days for having your vehicle tested early.

What if my MOT has expired?

Without a current MOT certificate, you will be unable to drive your vehicle lawfully or renew your road tax. The penalty for not having an up to date MOT certificate could be a fine. Also if the vehicle is involved in an accident you may be asked to produce your MOT certificate. An insurance claim could be affected by the absence of your MOT, especially in the case of injury.

Recent computerisation of the MOT testing system by DVSA means police and mobile camera units can now check remotely to see if your vehicle has a current MOT.

Don’t leave it too late, M60 Autos has over 500 DVSA-approved MOT test centres nationwide.

What do I need to take with me?

The only thing you need to bring with you is the vehicle being tested! Our nominated tester will be able to look up your vehicle on the DVSA database to find the existing MOT details. You can even book MOT tests up to 1 month before your current due date without losing the existing expiry date, essentially giving your 13 months on your MOT instead of 12. Book your MOT online today.

MOT while you wait

The MOT test takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour to complete. Each M60 Autos MOT test centre is equipped with comfortable seating, free tea and coffee and free wifi so you can make yourself at home and we will carry out your MOT while you wait.

What’s Included in an MOT?

The nominated tester in centre will check the following components to ensure each meets the minimum standard set out by the DVSA before issuing an MOT certificate.

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Vehicle Identification Number

The MOT test checks that the Vehicle Identification Number, commonly referred to as the VIN, is present and legibly displayed on the vehicle. The VIN is a unique code including a serial number that is stamped on the vehicle. The location of the VIN varies from one vehicle manufacturer to the next.

Registration plate

The MOT tester will check the condition, security, legibility and the format of letters and numbers on your registration plate. The spacing and lettering on the number plate must meet current regulations and should not be altered in any way.

Lights

The MOT test checks the condition, operation, security and colour of your vehicles lights. The test will also check to see if the headlamp aim is correct.

Steering and suspension

The MOT tester will also check the steering and suspension components for correct condition and that the operation is correct.

Wipers and washer bottle

During the MOT the tester will check your vehicle’s wipers and washers ensuring they operate properly and give the driver a clear view of the road.

Windscreen

During the MOT the tester will check your vehicle’s windscreen for any chips or cracks. The maximum damage size is 10mm in the drivers’ line of vision or 40mm elsewhere in the remaining area swept by the wiper blades.

Horn

The MOT test will cover the horn’s operation for effectiveness and suitability.

Seatbelts

All seatbelts including those in the rear of the vehicle are checked for type, condition, correct operation and security and that all compulsory seatbelts are in place.

Seats

Your vehicle’s front seats are checked for security during the MOT test.

Fuel system

The fuel system is checked during the MOT test for leaks and that the fuel cap fastens and seals securely.

Emissions

The MOT test checks your exhaust emissions, ensuring that the vehicle is within the specified guidelines and that the exhaust is complete, secure, without serious leaks and silences effectively.

Bodywork

Vehicle structure and body shell are checked during the MOT test for excessive corrosion or damage in specific areas of the vehicle. Any sharp edge can result in an MOT failure.

Doors

The MOT tester will check that the doors open and close correctly and that the latch is secure in a closed position. Front doors should open from both the inside and outside of the vehicle. Rear doors may need to be opened to gain access to testable items like rear seatbelts.

Mirrors

The mirrors on your vehicle are checked during the MOT test for condition and security.

Wheels and tyres

The nominated MOT tester will check the vehicle’s wheels and tyres for a number of key points: the condition, security, tyre size and type and tread depth.