Our MOT Test Centre can usually be booked at a couple of days notice, and can be pre-dated up to 4 weeks in advance of the existing certificate.

All UK cars 3 years old and over require a valid MOT certificate by law. The contents and standards required are set by the Vehicle Inspectorate.

The annual testing of your vehicle is to ensure it meets minimum road safety standards. You may view the MOT test if you wish. It will be carried out by a VOSA approved tester. An assistant is essential for proper conduct of the MOT test. You must not interrupt or distract the tester during the inspection. Due to MOT procedures, items may appear under more than one heading.

Items checked during the MOT test:

  • Vehicle identification (chassis) number – a vehicle identification number must be permanently displayed and legible on a vehicle first used on or after 1 August 1980
  • Registration plate – condition, security, legibility and format of letters/numbers
  • Lights – condition, operation, security and correct colour. The headlamps will also be checked to see if the aim is correct
  • Steering and suspension – correct condition and operation
  • Wipers and washers – operate to give the driver a clear view of the road
  • Windscreen – condition and drivers view of the road
  • Horn – correct operation and type
  • Seatbelts – all seatbelts installed are checked for type, condition, operation and security. All compulsory seatbelts must be in place
  • Seats – front seats secure. Front and rear backseats can be secured in the upright position
  • Fuel system – no leaks, fuel cap fastens correctly and seals securely. The fuel cap will need to be opened. Make sure the key is available
  • Exhaust emissions – vehicle meets the requirement for exhaust emission. These vary on the age and fuel type of the vehicle
  • Exhaust system- complete, secure, without serious leaks and silences effectively
  • Vehicle structure – free from excessive corrosion or damage in specific areas. No sharp edges
  • Doors – open and close. Latch securely in closed position. Front doors should open from inside and outside the vehicle. Rear doors will need to be opened to gain access to testable items
  • Mirrors – presence, condition and security
  • Wheels and tyres – condition, security, tyre size and type, and tread depth. Spare tyres are not tested
  • Brakes – condition, operation and performance (efficiency test). Suitable vehicles will be tested on a roller brake tester. Vehicles such as those with permanent 4-wheel drive will be tested either on a suitable road using a properly calibrated and maintained decelerometer.