MOT test – Why is it imperative?

One thing that everyone will agree with, is that we all must keep our cars maintained at all times. It not only enhances the performance of the vehicle, but also acts as a safety measure for yourself and for others driving on the road. 

To keep a reality check on the vehicles, the UK government has undertaken some substantial measures. It has provided some consequential guidelines and also an annual test called MOT, which keeps an eye on the vehicle and also updates its own driver about the status of his vehicle. So, here’s everything you need to know about the MOT test.

What is MOT?

MOT is a contracted name for Ministry of Transport, which is now a defunct government department. This test is done on automobiles which are three years old from the date of manufacturing. 

This test was first introduced in 1960 and since then it has been examining vehicles for their street worthiness, safety, exhaust emissions and numerous other parts. Vehicles under 200cc to the heaviest of the lorries are all covered under this test.

It is also mandatory for the vehicle to meet the standards prescribed by the DVSA (Driving and Vehicle Standards Authority). Failing to comply with the rules can land you in hot water.

Benefits of an MOT

This test is a requisite for various reasons –

·      It gives you a legal certificate to drive on the roads of the UK.

·      Purchasing or selling your vehicle becomes a hassle-free process and strengthens the trust of your potential customer in your ethics.

·      You save on heavy bills of repair if you remain up to date in this annual test.

Parts checked during MOT

This test takes around 45 minutes, during which most of the parts of your car are checked. These are Vehicle Identification Number, lights, steering and suspension, seats and belts, windscreen, washer bottle, horn, wipers, exhaust system, doors, brakes, tyres and wheels and fuel system.

What if your car clears the test with flying colours?

Passing the test means, you are eligible for the VT20 MOT Test Pass certificate. With this legal document in hand, you can drive your vehicle freely anywhere on the roads of the UK. 

In case, for any reason, if the MOT computer system breaks down that time, then you get a ‘Contingency MOT test certificate.’

What if your car fails the test?

Failing the MOT Manchester test means, your vehicle isn’t fit to be driven on the roads. In this case, you get a V30 MOT Test Failure Certificate. This implies, you need to take your car to a repair centre and apply for a retest thereafter.

Reasons for failure of the MOT test

Malfunctioning of brakes, suspension, tyres, windscreen, lights, steering are some of the reasons why a car would lose out on the test. 

What if the MOT certificate is damaged or lost?

In such a case, you can get it replaced with from any nearby MOT centre. For this, you need to provide them with essential information like vehicle registration number and the V5C logbook reference number. You also need to shell out £10 or half the fee of the MOT test, whichever is lesser.

Vehicles excepted from this test

·      Only those cars which are still not three years old, as they are still under warranty period.

·      Some vintage cars which were manufactured or registered forty years ago and there hasn’t been any major change in them.

Consequences of flouting the test

·      If by any chance, you fail to get an MOT certificate, then be ready to pay a heavy fine of up to £2500.

·      You can even be banned from driving or have these points added to your license.

Cost of an MOT

The maximum fee fixed by DVSA for the MOT Manchester test is£54.85. However, you might find some discount on some testing centres. It’s better to choose your centre wisely.

How to remind yourself of the MOT test?

Forgetfulness is basic human nature. So, in this case, you can avail the reminder service option offered by various websites in the UK, including the government’s official website.

You can also check your MOT status on these websites, by entering the vital information they ask for.

So, be careful of not taking this test lightly whatsoever and remain informed of its status at all times to avoid any kind of tumult at the last moment. 

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Created on May 5th 2020 02:06. Viewed 374 times.

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