Driving in the UK comes with certain prerequisites, especially for cars categorised in classes 1 to 7. There should be a mandatory MOT test undertaken by these cars or vehicles of any size, model, or make. The test is a legal requirement for every driver owning any car specified in the above mentioned class, once they are three years old. The test measures the compliance of these vehicles with the safety and environmental standards laid out by the government. If any vehicle on the road is found to violate these standards, the driver is liable to pay fines, and their insurance is cancelled. The blog discusses the MOT details further.
Documents and Preparations Required
The primary document required to start the MOT process is a V5C logbook. Especially for the first MOT test, this is the most important document. From then on, the MOT details will be saved digitally, and there won’t be any requirement for hard copies. But, in any case, keeping the hard copies related to the MOT test is crucial. When the first MOT test is over, the drivers can check their MOT details on the website of the DVSA or the service centre. These centres and the official government website have an MOT checker. This helps drivers to enter the details, look at their MOT history and download documents as and when needed. Also, to get the MOT test done successfully, the drivers should ensure that their road tax and car insurance are updated. In case they are outdated, it is important to renew them. Before reaching the centre for the MOT Corby, drivers must consider taking a locking wheel nut with them. Additionally, having a payment method will give them the convenience of paying for the test. Keeping the car clean should definitely be considered before the initiation of the test. Also, ensuring the confirmation of the appointment before going to the centre will help in case the centre loses the booking details. Do check the car once for any visible damage and get it fixed before the test. This will increase the chances of passing the test. In case of any confusion, consulting professionals is a good idea. The details of the MOT process can also be checked on the official website to avoid common mistakes.
What Can Lead to Failing
Some common mistakes and failures lead to failing the MOT test. These failures are capable of easy fixing, but due to negligence or oversight, the drivers miss them and fail the test. The car must be checked thoroughly before being taken for the MOT test. In any case, to ensure the elimination of any defects, a Car Servicing is the solution for that. During a service, all minor and major issues can be repaired.
Some of the problems that lead to MOT failure are given below:
- One of the cheapest remedies is to fix the lights and bulbs of the car. Before the test, drivers must ensure to check these themselves and get them affixed at the nearest centre. The front, rear, fog lights, brake lights, indicators, and headlights all must be checked thoroughly.
- Tyres are one of the most important components of the car, and any kind of defect in them left unnoticed can lead to MOT failure. They come in contact with the road every day and are most likely to develop issues such as less pressure, punctures, incorrect tread depth, etc.
- Suspension failures are also one of the most common problems with the car. Every 1 out of 10 cars is detected with suspension issues. Every annual service covers fixing the suspension, so it’s better not miss out on that.
- Every diesel vehicle has a problem with emissions that become the reason of failing the MOT test. The minimum environmental standard, as per the DVSA, should be met to pass the test. Cleaning the fuel and engine system is advised to ensure the elimination of emission issues.
- The registration or number plates must be easily readable and visible. It is one of the most common reasons to fail an MOT. During servicing or before taking the car for the test, plates must be cleaned properly.
- If the seatbelts do not retract immediately, the car fails the test. Checking them for any knots or twisting before the test is helpful. Also, any warning lights on the dashboard will immediately raise a red flag during the test.
Conclusion
Understanding MOT requirements in the UK is essential for every driver to continue driving without interruptions and legal consequences. With the introduction of online services and booking methods, it’s convenient for every vehicle owner to move forward with this process. Every centre operates this process digitally and keeps the MOT history of every customer. This makes the process easier for everyone, and the number of safe cars on the road increases. The only thing to consider is to keep the car ready before the MOT process, and invest the time and effort towards safe driving.
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