Inside the MOT test: What happens to your car during its check-up?

If you are among the numerous car owners in the UK, the idea of taking your vehicle in for its annual MOT might make you feel a little uneasy. You may wonder what exactly goes on behind those garage doors. What are the testers looking for? Will they find something wrong? Could it fail? If you have been thinking of these questions, you are not alone. Most car owners are usually overwhelmed before taking their car for the test. But the truth is, the MOT test is not as mysterious as it seems. Once you know what is involved, it becomes much easier to understand, and far less stressful. Whether you are preparing for your MOT Brandon, or anywhere else in the UK, this simple guide will walk you through what really happens during your vehicle’s check-up.

What is an MOT test, really?

The MOT (short for Ministry of Transport) test is a legal necessity for most vehicles in the UK, once they are three years old. After that, your car needs to pass an MOT every 12 months to remain roadworthy and legally allowed on public roads.

The test does not just exist for paperwork. It is a vital check that ensures your vehicle is safe for you, your passengers, and everyone else on the road.

But contrary to what some people believe, the MOT is not a full service. It is more like a safety inspection. The goal is to make sure your car meets minimum legal standards, not necessarily to make it run at its best.

Step-by-step: The MOT inspection. 

So, what happens during the MOT test? The following list is your guide to understanding what you should expect during the test:

1. Lights and indicators

They ensure that every light on your vehicle, the headlights, tail lights, brake lights, fog lights and indicators, are functioning and have the correct positions. Bulb replacements are common for minor failure reasons.

2. Brakes

Safety depends greatly on your brakes. An important part of the check-up is testing your brakes. The tester will check for the wear and operating status of your brake pads and discs. They will also examine the handbrake.

3. Tyres and wheels

Any bulges or tears and treads that measure less than 1.6mm are not allowed. Wheels are frequently checked for cracks or other problems.

4. Suspension and Steering

The tester inspects the suspension and steering parts. They check that everything is safe and runs smoothly.

5. Exhaust and emissions

If you own a petrol/diesel car, leaks and signs of rust in the exhaust system could be checked during the inspection. The emissions from cars are measured to guarantee they fulfil UK environmental requirements. Because there is no tailpipe in an electric car, these emissions are avoided.

6. Seat belts and seats

They review the condition of all seatbelts and make sure they are held securely. Seats have to be securely installed and easy to adjust to match the needs of each user.

7. Windscreen, wipers and washer fluid

Cracks or chips on the windscreen are something the tester looks for, since they can obstruct the driver’s view. The wiper blades must keep the screen clean and enough washer fluid should be in the supply reservoir.

8. Mirrors and visibility

The condition and correct position of all mirrors are verified. Spot checks may find that a big air freshener or sticker can affect the driving view and cause an accident.

9. Vehicle structure

Testers check how all the parts of your car are arranged. If corrosion or damage puts your safety at risk, it has to be corrected.

10. Number plates and VIN 

Your number plates must be clearly visible and securely attached. The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) should match your car’s registration details.

What happens next?

When the test is complete, your vehicle will obtain one of three outcomes:

• Pass: Everything is in order. You are good to go for another year.
• Pass with advisories: Your car is safe to drive, but some parts may need attention soon.
• Fail: Your vehicle is not roadworthy until repairs are made and it passes a retest.

If it is a minor issue, like a blown bulb, it can often be fixed on the spot. For more serious problems, you may need to leave the car with the garage or book a return visit.

Common fears, reassured. 

You might worry that the garage is just looking for ways to charge you. But in most cases, testers stick to precise guidelines. They can’t fail your car without reason, and they must document everything. You can even ask to see the faulty part or get a printout of the results.

If your MOT is due soon, try to prepare your car beforehand. Check your lights, top up your washer fluid, and look at your tyres. Small steps like these can save you time, money, and stress.

An MOT test is not something to fear. It is simply a structured examination made to keep you, and everyone else, safe on the road. When you are a car owner in the UK, knowing what goes on during the check-up can give you confidence, not anxiety.

So the next time your MOT Evedon is due, you will know exactly what is happening behind the scenes. And with that, you can ensure a legally safe car for your hassle-free journeys.