ââIt is one of those jobs annually that most car drivers dread. Will it pass? Will it cost an arm and a leg?
But having a MOT done on your car every year is not only a legal requirement, but a vital one for safety on Britain’s roads.
The MOT test is an annual inspection that makes sure your vehicle meets environmental and road safety standards and it is a non-negotiable part of owning a car.
But if you are not sure what it is for, or how to check if yours is due, read on. We have broken down everything you need to know:
What is an MOT and what is checked?
MOT stands for Ministry of Transport and is a test required to keep your car on the road, done annually, to make sure it is safe for you and other road users.
MOT stands for Ministry of Transport as that is the body that has overarching power.
This was the government department responsible for checking vehicle roadworthiness when the test was first introduced in 1960, and during the test a range of things are checked on your car.
The MOT test checks a whole host of car parts that are vital to it running smoothly and safely.
A qualified mechanic is the only person who can do the test, and they will look at different parts of the car from the braking and fuel system to the seatbelts, wipers, mirrors, lights and the exhaust.
It doesn't look at the condition of the engine, gearbox or clutch.
The exhaust emissions are also tested on most vehicles – if the emissions are too high, your vehicle will fail its MOT.
If you do not pass the MOT, you are not awarded a certificate and the car must have work done to it before it is deemed roadworthy again.
How do I find out when my car's first MOT is due?
You can check the status of your car’s MOT status really easily. The UK Government has a checker service here where you simply have to input the vehicle registration information. This will then load up data kept on the car, including when it is due for its next test.
Will I get a reminder when my MOT is due?
You can sign up to get free reminders by text message or email when your MOT is due here.
When you sign up, you’ll get a reminder one month before your car, van or motorcycle MOT is due or two months before your lorry, bus or large trailer MOT is due.
When should I get my MOT done?
If your vehicle is new, you must get an MOT test by the third anniversary of its registration. It then must be done by the same date every year and is an annual thing to get done.
