The MoT Test
The MoT looks at many parts of your car to ensure they meet key legal requirements at the time of test. The MoT Test will make sure:
- The body and vehicle structure is free from excessive corrosion or damage in specific areas and there are no sharp edges likely to cause injury.
- The fuel system has no leaks and the fuel cap fastens and seals securely. The fuel cap will need to be opened so be sure the key is available.
- The exhaust meets the requirements for exhaust emissions, depending on the age and fuel type of the vehicle.
- The exhaust system is secure, complete, without serious leaks and silences effectively.
- Seat belts are checked for type, condition, operation and security. All compulsory seat belts must be in place.
- Seats are secure. Front and rear backseats can be secured in the upright position.
- Doors latch securely in closed position. Front doors should open from inside and outside the vehicle. Rear doors may need to be opened to gain access to testable items.
- Mirrors are in place, in good condition and secure.
- The boot or tailgate can be secured in the closed position.
- The brakes are in good condition and the operation and performance (efficiency test) is satisfactory. Note the removal of the road wheels is not part of the test.
- The tyres and wheels are in good condition, secure, of the correct size and type and tread depth is sufficient. Spare tyres are not inspected.
- The registration plates are in good condition and secure and that the characters are correctly formed and spaced.
- The lights are in operational condition and secure. Headlamps are tested for aim.
- The bonnet securely latches in the closed position.
- Wipers and washers operate to give the driver a clear view ahead.
- The windscreen is in good condition and the driver's view of the road is clear.
- The horn operates correctly and is of a suitable type.
- Steering and suspension are of a satisfactory condition and operation.
- The vehicle identification number (VIN) is on vehicles first used on or after 1 August 1980. Not more than one different VIN is displayed except on multistage build vehicles.
Retests
Your vehicle may be able to have a partial retest for free or reduced fee in the following cases.
Leaving your vehicle at the test centre
If the vehicle is left at the test centre for repair and retested before the end of 10 working days following the day it originally failed, then only a partial retest is needed. There is no fee.
Bringing your vehicle back to the test centre
Before the end of the next working day.
You won’t have to pay again if the vehicle is brought back to the same test centre before the end of the next working day for a partial retest on one or more of the following items only:
Bringing your vehicle back within 10 working days.
If the vehicle is removed from the test centre for repair and returned within 10 working days following the day it originally failed, then only a partial retest is needed. In this case a partial retest fee may be charged