What Gets Checked on an MOT? Full Guide to UK MOT Test
An MOT test checks the safety, roadworthiness, and emissions of your vehicle to ensure it meets UK legal standards. Every car over three years old must pass an MOT each year before it can be driven legally on the road.
Think of the MOT like a yearly health check-up for your car. Just as a doctor checks vital signs, an MOT inspector looks at key parts of your vehicle such as brakes, tyres, lights, and emissions. If anything is unsafe or below the legal limit, your car will fail the test until the issues are fixed.
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Knowing exactly what gets checked on an MOT not only helps you avoid surprises but also gives you peace of mind that your car is safe for everyday driving. In this guide, we’ll break down each area inspected during the test and explain why these checks matter.
Key Areas Checked During an MOT
The MOT test covers several parts of your vehicle to confirm it is safe and legal to drive. I hope you may be interested in reading Why MoT Checks are crucial for PCOs? Below are the main areas inspected:
1. Vehicle Identification and General Checks
The tester first checks that your number plate is clean, secure, and easy to read. The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) must match the one recorded for your car, and the mileage reading should be consistent and accurate. These checks confirm the vehicle’s identity and help prevent fraud.
2. Lights and Electrical Systems
All lights must work correctly, including headlights, brake lights, indicators, hazard lights, and fog lamps. The tester also checks the battery and wiring to make sure they are safe and secure. Faulty lights are one of the most common reasons for MOT failure.
3. Steering and Suspension
Your steering system must operate smoothly without too much play or stiffness. The suspension, including shock absorbers, is checked to ensure the vehicle handles properly on the road. Worn or broken suspension parts can make the car unsafe to drive.
4. Brakes and Brake Performance
The tester inspects the brake pads, discs, and other components for wear and tear. A performance test is also carried out to check braking efficiency. Since brakes are vital for safety, any faults here usually result in an MOT failure.
5. Tyres and Wheels
Tyres must meet the legal tread depth of at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre. The tester also checks for cuts, bulges, or other damage. Wheels must be securely fitted and aligned to keep the car stable.
6. Seatbelts and Safety Restraints
All seatbelts must be present, in good condition, and function properly. The tester ensures they lock and release as intended. Safety restraint systems, such as airbags, are also checked to confirm they are not showing warning lights.
7. Body, Structure, and Doors
The vehicle’s body and chassis must be free from corrosion or damage that affects safety. All doors, the bonnet, and the tailgate must open and close securely. Structural strength is key to protecting passengers in case of an accident.
8. Exhaust, Emissions, and Fuel System
The exhaust system must be secure and free from leaks. Emissions are measured to confirm the car meets environmental standards. The fuel system is also checked for leaks that could pose a fire risk.
9. Mirrors, Wipers, and Windscreen
Your windscreen must be clear, with no major cracks or chips in the driver’s line of sight. Mirrors should provide a proper view of the road. Wipers and washers are checked to make sure they clean the screen effectively.
10. Horn and Other Safety Features
The horn must sound clearly and be loud enough to alert other drivers. Warning lights on the dashboard, such as ABS or airbag lights, are also reviewed to ensure there are no safety issues.
What’s Not Included in an MOT?
An MOT test covers many safety and legal checks, but it does not examine every part of your vehicle. Some areas are outside the scope of the inspection, which often surprises drivers.
For example, the engine, clutch, and gearbox are not checked in an MOT. These parts may affect how well the car runs, but they do not form part of the legal safety checklist. Similarly, routine maintenance items such as the oil level, coolant, or engine condition are not inspected during the test.
This means a car can pass its MOT but still need servicing to stay in good working order. Think of it like this: an MOT makes sure your car is safe to drive on the road, while a service keeps it running smoothly. Both are important but serve different purposes.
Why These Checks Matter
The checks carried out during an MOT are designed to keep drivers, passengers, and other road users safe. Each part tested has a direct link to safety or environmental standards.
Environmental checks are equally important. The emissions test ensures your vehicle does not release harmful levels of pollution into the air. A car that fails this part of the MOT cannot legally be driven until the issue is resolved.
By covering all these areas, the MOT helps reduce accidents, prevent breakdowns, and limit environmental damage. Passing the test proves that your car is safe and roadworthy, giving you confidence every time you drive.
How to Prepare Your Car for an MOT
Preparing your car for MOT test can save you time, stress, and the cost of a retest. Many of the common reasons cars fail are small issues you can spot and fix yourself.
By spending a few minutes on these simple checks, you reduce the chance of failing the test and keep your car in better condition all year round.
FAQs About MOT Checks
How long does an MOT take?
An MOT test usually takes 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the condition of the vehicle. If repairs are needed, it may take longer.
What are the most common MOT failures?
The most common failures are faulty lights, worn tyres, damaged windscreens, and brake issues. These are often simple to check and fix before the test.
How much does an MOT cost in the UK?
The maximum MOT fee for a car is £54.85. Many garages charge less, so it’s worth checking local prices.
Does an MOT include car servicing?
No. An MOT only checks safety and legal requirements. A service covers engine oil, filters, and general performance, which are not part of the MOT.
