MOT stands for Ministry of Transport, and the test has been around since 1960. It involves the inspection of numerous car components and systems, such as its braking and fuel systems (including the testing of emissions), windscreen, lights and seatbelts.
All vehicles that are three years old and above must have an MOT test every year to confirm their roadworthiness and safety.
About one in five vehicles fail their MOT each year. Often, the reasons are quite minor and could easily be addressed by owners. Before your next MOT is due, be sure to check the following:
1. Headlights and indicators
Do your car’s headlights, sidelights, taillights, hazard lights and indicators all work as expected?
2. Brake lights
Ask a friend to check that the brake lights illuminate when you put your foot on the brake pedal – or use a reflective surface to see for yourself.
3. Number plate
Are both number plates clean and easy to read? Make sure that the font and letter spacings comply with MOT regulations.
4. Wheels and tyres
Wheels and tyres should be undamaged. Check that each tyre has a tread depth of at least 1.6mm across the middle third of the tyre.
5. Seats and seatbelts
The driver’s seat should adjust according to your car’s handbook, as should all other seats (where applicable). Inspect the length of each seatbelt for damage, and give each a hard tug to see how it might react if full braking pressure were to be applied.
6. Windscreen
Can you see clearly through the windscreen when sitting in the driver’s seat? Any cracks or chips measuring 10mm or more could cause a failed MOT.
7. Windscreen wipers
Do your windscreen wipers function properly? If there’s any damage (cracks or tears), this will likely result in MOT failure.
8. Screen wash
Make sure your screen wash container is topped up – it’s a legal requirement.
9. Horn
Toot the horn. Does it work? If not, make sure it’s fixed before you book your MOT.
10. Fuel and engine oil
There should be sufficient fuel in the tank for an emissions test (unless it’s an electric vehicle, of course). Also, make sure the engine oil is topped up.
Do you have any MOT-related queries? If so, please take a look at our frequently asked questions.
The vast majority of cars that are three years old or more are required to undergo an annual MOT.
Driving with an expired MOT is not worth the risk. Firstly, your car could be a danger to you, your fellow passengers and other road users. Secondly, you could be fined up to £2,500.
If your Dacia is due an MOT, please book an appointment with our Bolton, Cardiff, Croydon, Enfield, Liverpool, Manchester, Orpington, Romford, Staples Corner (Brent Cross), Swansea, Watford or Wirral branch today.
You can expect the MOT to take 45 to 60 minutes to complete.
Make an enquiry
If you have any unanswered questions, please get in touch with your local Dacia Retail Renault Group branch. We’ll be happy to help.
Book an MOT with us today
To book your car MOT, please give us a call or complete our online booking form.
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