Taking your vehicle for its MOT can be a daunting task, but being as prepared as possible can simplify the process and potentially eliminate some of the stress. So, what do you need to do to get your vehicle ready for its MOT test?
You don’t need to be an expert mechanic to run through some essential checks before your MOT. These can make a real difference in getting your vehicle in the possible condition pre-test.
Here are the checks you can and should do yourself to minimise the chances of an MOT failure:
Check Your Tyres
Most tyres have tread indicators on them, with ridges in the bottom of the grooves to show where the required depth is.
You need to make sure all your tyres have at least the minimum legal tread depth of 1.6mm in a continuous band around the central three-quarter area of the tyre. If it doesn’t, you’ll have failed the MOT.
This is simple to check, and you should also look out for any cuts or bulges, with all tyres inflated to the right pressure. You can find this information in your handbook!
Check for Faulty Lights
Faulty lights can be easy to miss but are important. These include headlights, sidelights, indicators, brake lights, and lights above your registration plate (if your number plate is dirty, give it a wipe, too). You can’t see all of these when in the vehicle, so get a friend or family member to check them with you.
Check for Windscreen Cracks
You need to make sure there are no chips or cracks in your windscreen, especially in the ‘a zone’ directly in front of the driver’s side or anywhere within the area that your wipers cover. The wipers also need to be in full working order and topped up with washer fluid.
Check Fuel and Oil Levels
Remember to drop your car off for its MOT with enough fuel for the tester to be able to run the engine. You also need to check your oil level using a dipstick and top it up if the level is low.
Essential Exhaust Checks
Problems with your exhaust can be a major issue at an MOT, so listen out for any excessive noise or rattling when your vehicle is running. Also keep an eye out for any leaks or smoke from the exhaust.
Check your Brakes
Check these when driving normally to ensure they are working safely. Also make sure your handbrake is strong enough to hold your vehicle stationary – on a hill or on a flat surface.
Final Checks
Do a general check around your vehicle, looking at seatbelts, mirrors, testing the horn and looking out for warning lights on your dashboard. All of these can be areas that can lead to an MOT fail.
If you drive an electric vehicle (EV), your pre-MOT checklist will be fairly similar to the above tips but there will be some key differences to consider.
For example:
Battery Health
Check the battery health of your EV including its capacity and performance.
Charging System
Check the charging port, cables and onboard charger are working correctly to verify that the vehicle can charge properly from different points.
Electric Motor & Regenerative Braking System
The electric motor is a critical component of an EV. Check for any unusual noises, vibrations or performance issues. Also ensure to check the regenerative braking system to ensure it is functioning correctly.
Safety Systems
Safety systems are specific to EVs and so you should check that emergency shutdown features and high-voltage system safeguards are functioning.
This pre-MOT checklist should help make taking your MOT test a breeze. So, if you’re MOT-ready, book yours today on the PayByPhone app.
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