What Gets Checked in an MOT Test? 10 Essential Components Explained

Every vehicle over three years old in the UK must pass the MOT or Ministry of Transport test. If you drive a car in the UK, you need an MOT certificate to use public roads.

MOT tests check different parts of your car during the test. They check the car components to detect major and dangerous faults. If your car does not have any mechanical issues, you will easily get the certificate. On the other hand, you have to repair your car if it has faulty parts.

MOT centers have a full list of components that are checked during every test.

In this blog, we will look at 10 key components that are included in the test.

1. Body and Chassis: Structure and Safety

During the MOT test, testers will examine the car’s structure for excessive corrosion, rusting, loose parts, and sharp edges. Your car must be safe for you, your passengers, and pedestrians.

MOT technicians may detect loose bumpers, damaged sills, and rust holes as mechanical faults.

Wash your car before the test and check your car carefully to pass the test.

2. Windscreen and Wipers: Clear View Ahead

Visibility is ka ey factor for safe trips. MOT technicians check the windscreen for cracks and chips in the driver’s view. Windscreen wipers must clear water drops effectively.

MOTS testers will consider it a fault if the cracked windscreen area is larger than 10mm. Worn-out wiper blades are also not acceptable.

You would not fail your MOT test because of the MOT if you replace wipers yearly and repair windscreen cracks as soon as possible.

3. Brakes: Your First Line of Defence

The car brake system creates a primary safety system for your vehicle. This is one of the most important components. Brakes are vital for control and safe rides.

The testers will check your car's brakes for faulty brake pads, brake fluid, and performance. If your vehicle does not stop quickly at the correct distance, it will not pass the test.

MOT failures generally occur because of worn pads, leaking brake fluid and unpredictable braking.

4. Steering System: Control and Direction

For road safety and full control, the steering must be responsive. Moreover, power steering fluid should be at the optimum level. Fluid leaks, worn joints, and a loose steering rack are some common faults, causing MOT failure.

Visit a car service center soon if you observe a heavy and unresponsive steering.

 

5. Tyres : Grip, Safety, and Control

Your tyres keep your vehicle stable, and they carry its load as well. Moreover, they assist your vehicle in varied weather and road conditions. Therefore, MOT technicians check car tyres for tread depth. The tread depth of car tyres must be below 1.6mm. Moreover, sidewalls of car tyres should not have signs of bulges, cracks, cuts or punctures.

6. Lights and Indicators – See and Be Seen

The MOT testers will check all front, rear, brake, fog, and indicator lights. They must function correctly. Moreover, they all must be of the right color.

MOT testers generally do not issue the certificate if your car has blown bulbs, cracked lenses, or dim output.

7. Exhaust and Emissions – Environment and Noise Control

The exhaust system must be in good condition and not emit excessive smoke or noise. The emission test ensures your vehicle meets safety and environmental standards.

Issues like rusted pipes, noisy mufflers, and harmful emissions are some common faults that MOT testers may detect in the exhaust.

Check your exhaust for warning signs and visible damage before the test. Moreover, regularly visiting a garage will also save you from negative results.

8. Suspension System – Ride Comfort and Stability

The MOT tester checks for worn shock absorbers, broken springs, and suspension linkages. A faulty suspension affects steering and promotes uneven tread wear in tyres.

Get the suspension checked for leaking shocks, worn bushes, and faulty coil springs during regular car service sessions.

9. Seatbelts and Seats – Passenger Safety

Seatbelts should not show any signs of fraying or damage. Moreover, they must latch properly and retract smoothly.

MOT testers would not pass your car if it has torn seatbelts and loose mounting points.

You have to check all belts before your MOT test.

10. Horn, Registration Plates, and Mirrors – Small But Vital

These small components do a lot for your vehicle, but they are often overlooked. These components may cause MOT failure. The horn must be loud and functional. Number plates must be clean and legible. Mirrors must be secure and provide a clear view.

MOT testers will not accept faded plates, a broken mirror, and silent horn.

MOT Failure? Not the End – Just a Wake-Up Call

Do not panic if your car fails the MOT due to these faulty components. You will receive a failure certificate. You must fix major or dangerous faults before getting your car back with a valid certificate.

Dangerous faults in a car mean it is unsafe to drive. Major faults are not dangerous, but you must repair them to pass the retest.

MOT testing keeps faulty cars away from the road, but it is not a substitute for regular car servicing and maintenance. Checking your car components regularly is your prime duty.

Before the test, check your car yourself or visit a service center for proper car service.

Final words

Your car has several components, and these parts are essential for performance, comfort, and safety. You have to check these components for safe and comfortable rides. Only passing MOT Test Darlington should not be your main objective. You would not fail the test if you are a responsible driver and take care of your car regularly.