When it comes to car ownership, one of the most essential responsibilities is adhering to your car’s legal and safety requirements. One of the best ways to ensure your vehicle remains compliant with the law and reduces the risk of an accident on the road is to pass the UK MOT test.
The MOT test is an important annual check which looks at the safety and condition of cars over three years old. It covers items like brakes, tyres, steering, lights, mirrors, exhaust and emissions, and is a legal requirement for any car that intends to be on the road.
Ultimately, passing your MOT in Leamington Spa is essential for trouble-free driving, yet sadly, many drivers do fail the test at the first instance. So, just what hazards should you look out for if you want to ensure your car passes the MOT test?
Tread Depth-
The legal minimum tread depth for cars is 1.6mm across the middle of the tyre’s tread and around the edges, so always ensure your tread is checked frequently. Driving with illegally low tread depth can make it much harder for your car to brake and turn properly, plus it can increase your chances of getting a puncture.
Faulty Brakes-
The MOT checks to see that the braking system functions correctly and that your car is able to stop safely in an emergency. If your car fails the initial brake test, then the tester will check that all brakes, handbrake and pedal are working well.
Oil & Filter-
During the MOT check, the tester will be looking at the oil filter to check that it’s not been blocked by dirt. Quality engine oil is actually the key to keeping your engine fit for the long-term, so regular checks are essential.
Windscreen-
The MOT tester will look for any cracks in the windscreen that are bigger than 10mm long. You’ll need to have these speedily repaired or replaced as driving with a broken windscreen is both dangerous and illegal.
Common Faults Noted on an MOT Test:
An MOT (Ministry of Transport) test is an important and necessary annual safety inspection of most vehicles driven on public roads in the UK. To ensure the safety and legal regulation of vehicles on the road, an MOT test is required by law for most vehicles having 3 or more years of age, with some exemptions.
It is important to be aware of and address any potential common faults that may be noted on an MOT test to keep your vehicle in optimum condition. Following are some of the most common faults noted on an MOT test:
1) Lights: The lighting system, including headlights, indicators, fog lights, rear lights, and brake lights should be in working order for any vehicle on the road. Faulty bulbs, broken or outdated wiring, and faulty operation or illuminations can be observed by a tester and marked as an issue in the MOT.
2) Tyres: The condition, type and tread depth of tyres on all 4 wheels must meet the legal safety limits. The tyre pressure should also be checked and adjusted to the manufacturer’s specifications. Worn-out or illegal tyres will not pass the MOT.
3) Brakes: The brakes, otherwise known as a vehicle’s braking system, are one of the most important safety components to any vehicle. Stopping distance, brake efficiency and pedal travel need to be within legal limits and any faults must be addressed before an MOT test.
4) Seatbelts: All seatbelts must function correctly and be in good condition. Damaged seat belts can significantly increase the risk of injury in the event of an accident and will not pass the test.
Cost of a MOT Test:
If you’re a driver in the UK, you’re likely familiar with the annual MOT test—an inspection which measures how safe your vehicle is to drive. Each year, millions of cars and other vehicles are put through their paces to ensure that they’re roadworthy and compliant with the laws of the road. It costs money to undertake a MOT test, but how much does it cost?
The short answer to this question is that MOT tests cost around £50. That’s the cost for a standard car, though the cost can vary a bit depending on the type of vehicle being tested. Larger vehicles—like vans and buses—cost a bit more, while scooters and mopeds cost less than average.
The cost of an MOT in Leamington Spa is also dependent on where you get it done. Depending on the garage or testing centre you choose, you can pay more or less for the same level of inspection. That said, you should always try to get the best deal possible when having your vehicle checked out.
