MOT

Everything You Need to Know About Vehicle MOTs

Keeping your car roadworthy isn’t just about safety – it’s also the law. In the UK, a valid MOT (Ministry of Transport) test certificate is essential for most vehicles over three years old. Below, we’ll cover everything you need to know about MOTs, why they’re important, and how to ensure your car passes with flying colours.

What Is an MOT Test?

An MOT is an annual inspection required by law to ensure your vehicle meets road safety and environmental standards. During the test, a qualified mechanic will check critical components such as brakes, tyres, lights, and emissions to ensure your car is safe to drive.

Failing to have a valid MOT can result in fines of up to £1,000, invalid insurance and potential legal issues, so it’s crucial to stay on top of your renewal date.

How Often Do You Need an MOT?

Most vehicles require their first MOT when they reach three years old, and after that, it’s due every 12 months. You can check your MOT due date online via the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) or find it on your last MOT certificate. Still not sure? Give us a call and we'll find out your due date.

What Does an MOT Check Include?

During the MOT, a technician will inspect the following key areas of your vehicle:

Lights and Signalling: Ensuring all headlights, indicators, and brake lights function correctly.
Steering and Suspension: Checking for wear and tear or damage.
Brakes: Testing braking performance and condition.
Tyres and Wheels: Ensuring adequate tread depth (1.6mm minimum) and no significant damage.
Exhaust and Emissions: Making sure emissions meet legal limits.
Visibility: Inspecting the windscreen, wipers, and mirrors.
Bodywork and Structure: Checking for any damage that may affect safety.

This list isn’t exhaustive as the DVSA are constantly working on the standards to keep us safe, but it is a rough guide to what you can expect.

How to Prepare for Your MOT

Avoiding a fail is easier than you think with a few simple checks:

Lights: Replace any blown bulbs and test all lights.
Wipers and Screenwash: Ensure your wipers are effective, and top up the screenwash.
Tyres: Check tread depth and tyre pressure.
Cleanliness: Remove any clutter that might obstruct visibility or access.

If you’re unsure, consider a pre-MOT check with us to try and get on top of any easy resolved issues!

What Happens If Your Vehicle Fails the MOT?

If your car fails, you’ll be issued a “refusal of MOT certificate” and a list of reasons for failure. You must get the issues fixed and arrange a retest. Some garages offer a free retest if repairs are done within 10 working days.

Driving a car without a valid MOT is illegal unless you're driving to a pre-booked test or repair appointment.

Why Choose Us for Your MOT?

At Chesterfield Tyres & Exhausts, we make MOTs simple and hassle-free. Using our local partners you can trust us to keep your vehicle safe and legal. Give us a call today on 01246 454095.

MOT