Heading
Close X
Menu
The MOT (Ministry of Transport) was introduced in 1960 and is designed to check the roadworthiness of a vehicle. MOTs apply to almost all cars that are at least three years old, and must be conducted on an annual basis. The inspection itself covers several parts and systems, from the braking and fuel system to lights and wipers.
Approximately 20% of vehicles fail their MOT every year, often for very minor reasons. Give your car the best possible chance of passing by checking the following components.
1. Headlights and indicators
Test your vehicle’s headlights, sidelights, taillights, hazard lights and indicators to make sure they each work.
2. Brake lights
A friend can check your brake lights illuminate while you press the brake pedal – or you can do it yourself by using a carefully placed reflective surface.
3. Number plate
If both number plates are clean and legible and the font and letter spacings comply with MOT regulations, your car will be one step closer to passing its inspection.
4. Wheels and tyres
Check to see that wheels and tyres are in good condition, and that each tyre has a minimum tread depth of at least 1.6mm across the middle third of the tyre.
5. Seats and seatbelts
Test the driver’s seat to see if it adjusts as it should, and ensure that all other seats move correctly where applicable. Then check the full length of each seatbelt for damage, before giving an abrupt tug to each to see how it might react in a hard-braking scenario.
6. Windscreen
When sitting in the driver’s seat, you should be able to see clearly through the windscreen. Are there any cracks or chips? If so, any that measure 10mm or more could result in MOT failure.
7. Windscreen wipers
Test your wipers to check that they can clean the windscreen, and look for any signs of damage which might cause your car to fail its MOT.
8. Screen wash
Check your screen wash container is topped up. If not, you’ll likely be issued with a failed MOT.
9. Horn
Check the horn works and if not, be sure to get it repaired.
10. Fuel and engine oil
For petrol, diesel and hybrid cars, make sure you have enough fuel in the tank for the testing of emissions, and check that there’s sufficient engine oil.
Please browse our frequently asked questions below if you have any queries.
Almost all cars aged three years or more are legally required to undergo an annual MOT.
If this is the case, please book an MOT as soon as possible. Driving without a valid certificate means you could be putting yourself and others at risk, and you may also incur a fine of between £1,000 and £2,500.
Make your Nissan MOT appointment today with the team at our Bolton, Liverpool or Wirral branch.
It should take between 45 and 60 minutes.
Make an enquiry
If you still have questions regarding MOTs, please contact your local Nissan Retail Renault Group branch at your earliest convenience.
Book an MOT with us today
Ready to book an MOT? Please phone us or complete our online booking form for an appointment.
Renault Retail Group UK Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Our firm reference number (FRN) is 311797.
We are a credit broker and not a lender and we are able to offer you credit broking services to help finance the purchase of your new or used motor vehicle, along with other ancillary products and services through our commercial arrangements with a select number of lenders. If we arrange finance for you, we may receive a commission, fee or other financial consideration from the lender for doing so. Our income may vary from lender to lender depending on the contractual and commission arrangements that we have in place. Credit is subject to status, terms and conditions See our disclosure document here
