How do I get my car ready for the MOT?

What is it and what does an MOT check?

As the Swinging Sixties dawned so did the Ministry of Transport test (MOT), a voluntary once-over to see if the lights, steering and brakes on your motor were working properly. It swiftly became compulsory due to the number of vehicles that failed.

In 1961, all cars ten years or older needed testing and by 1967, this was reduced to cars aged three and up. The annual test was last updated in 2018, to tackle problems such as diesel emissions and distinguish between dangerous and major defects that you must put right straight away or minor problems that you should fix when you can.

Today the MOT is conducted by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) or Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) in Northern Ireland. The test includes a detailed list of checks for general vehicle roadworthiness and to meet environmental standards.

Common MOT fails and how to avoid them

It’s a smart idea to book a service or mini-service before the test. You can also book your MOT a month ahead of its due date without affecting your certificate expiry date next year. So, it’s effectively valid for 13 months – providing your vehicle passes first time.

According to the RAC, the most common MOT fails are to do with lights and signals (18.9%), suspension (13%), brakes (10%), tyres (7.7%) and restricted views (7.2%). The DVSA adds that, for those vehicles that don’t pass first time, almost 50% of faults could be avoided by carrying out some simple maintenance, such as replacing bulbs, wipers and tyres.

Check your lights and signals work

The easiest way to do this is to get someone to help. While one person operates the lights from inside the car, the other can walk around checking that everything is working. You can also park somewhere quiet and check your lights front and back by shining them against a wall. Don’t forget fog lights, hazard lights, indicators, brake lights and reversing lights. Follow this video for a full list of checks. You can buy replacement bulbs and follow the steps in your handbook to change them or your local garage or Halfords may help fit a new lightbulb for a small fee.

Top up your tyre pressure and tread carefully

Consult your car manual or manufacturer’s website to find out what your car’s tyre pressure should be – it may even be noted on a sticker inside the driver’s door. You can top up your tyres at a service station or by using your own pump. Give your tyres a visual check for cuts, bulges and other signs of damage. The tread should be a minimum of 1.6mm. A quick way to test is to take a 20p coin and place it into the grooves of your tyre – if you can see the outer rim of the coin, you should get your tyres properly checked. Check out this video clip for guidance.

Test your brakes

Testing your brakes can be done every time you set off. If they make any strange noises or your car pulls to one side, get it booked into a garage immediately. You can also check the brake fluid levels. Look for the high/low markings on the reservoir and top it up if necessary.

Check your fuel and engine oil

You should have enough petrol for the emissions test as well as getting you to and from the test centre. It’s a good idea to build oil checks into your regular car health routine.

Ensure the vehicle is on level ground and open the bonnet to remove the dipstick. Pull on the dipstick ring/handle (usually a bright colour), wipe the oily end with some kitchen roll, replace, then remove again and look where the level of oil has reached. If it is below the maximum mark indicated on the dipstick, then you should top it up with a bit of oil. Be careful not to put in too much. A little at a time is better. Don’t just use any engine oil, always check your car manual if you’re not sure what type of oil you need and keep a litre of in the boot.

Check you’ve got a clear view of the road

It’s easy to assess your windscreen wipers and washers. Top up your washer fluids if necessary and replace wiper blades if they show signs of damage or if they are more than a year old. Also check your view of the road is clear of any stickers, toys, air fresheners and chips or cracks. Your rear-view mirror must be adjustable and in good condition too.

Check your registration (number) plate

Ensure that your number plate can be seen clearly at a distance. You might want to visit a car wash or give your car a good clean before the test. Use a damp cloth to wipe the front and back number plates and remove any dirt or dust. The font and spacing of letters on both plates must also comply with legal requirements to pass the MOT test.

Review your car’s MOT history

This can be done easily – you can do it for any vehicle, so bear it in mind if you are ever looking to buy a second-hand car. It’s also worth doing before you present your car to an MOT testing station so you are as prepared as you can be for any points of failure.

Having said that, anything under the ‘Advisories’ section of your current MOT certificate can be dealt with at any time during the 12 months before your next MOT is due.

Make sure you use a reputable garage

Ensure you use a garage you can trust to conduct your MOT or service to avoid paying for any unnecessary work. You could also book a service and MOT together, so the car is serviced first, followed by the MOT to reduce the risk of it not passing first time.

Do I need an MOT for an electric car?

All electric cars over 3 years old need an MOT. The good news is that electric cars are usually cheaper to service and require less maintenance than a petrol or diesel car. Most MOT checks are the same such as windscreen wipers, brakes and brake fluid, lights, washers and tyres but EVs don’t have to take an emissions test to pass. Steering and suspension checks are also important for your electric car. You may need to change cooling and brake fluids, but you won’t need oil changes or filter replacements. The electric motor is sealed but it will need checking along with the battery pack and high-voltage cabling.

When does my car need an MOT?

Three years after its registration or when your last MOT is due to expire. Driving a vehicle without a valid MOT could land you with a fine of up to £1,000.

How much is an MOT?

The maximum MOT cost for a car is £54.85 but many centres will do it for less. You could save by booking your MOT and service together.