Everything You Need to Know About MOT Tests

Owning or leasing a vehicle comes with a handful of responsibilities to ensure that you are driving lawfully. For example, as the driver you are accountable for taking care of tax and insurance payments, and failing to abide by these regulations can result in a fine, points on your licence or even disqualification. Read on to find out everything you need to know about MOT’s…

What is an MOT?

First introduced in 1960, an MOT is an annual test that must be completed in order to ensure that a vehicle is roadworthy and safe for use. The initialism stands for Ministry of Transport and must be completed on every vehicle that is 3 years or older that will be used on any surface deemed to be a ‘road’ in the Road Traffic Act of 1988.

During the test, an experienced mechanic will look inside and outside the vehicle in order to ensure that every element is in full working order. If there are any serious problems, the car will fail the MOT and the driver will not be able to drive it legally until it is fixed.

The Inspection

The average MOT will take between 45 and 60 minutes to complete and during this allotted timeframe, the mechanics will check a variety of components to ensure that there are no hidden problems.

For example, on the inside they will check the headlights, indicators, windscreen wipers, horn, seatbelts and mirrors; whilst on the outside and in the engine they will check the brake lights, number plates, wheels/tyres, fuel and oil levels, suspension and exhaust system. Every check is part of a comprehensive checklist and each one must pass in order for the entire vehicle to pass an MOT.

Driving without an MOT

Since you need to pass an MOT in order to renew your road tax, there can be serious repercussions for driving without a valid MOT certificate. In fact, crashing a vehicle without having passed an MOT test often causes insurance companies to invalidate your insurance plan. Plus, you can also be fined up to £1000 for failing to comply with the law.

An MOT is in place in order to cover you as a driver. After all, breakdowns are often prevented with regular maintenance and an annual MOT test can find potential problems before they become serious.

Here at V12 Sports and Classics, we are proud to say that our range of used cars come with an AA Inspect and Protect Package that guarantees 3 months warranty and 12 months AA breakdown cover; ensuring that you are protected between your MOT’s! Get in contact with a member of the V12 team to find out more information today!