Other services:

MOT

An MOT can be carried out anytime

If a vehicle is tested within the calendar month prior to when the MOT is due, the test certificate will run from the date of the test to one year after the expiry date of the current certificate. For example, if the current certificate was due to expire on 1 April 2009, and the vehicle was presented on or after 2 March 2009, the certificate would run from the test date until 1 April 2010.

The same rule would also apply when the vehicle is taken in within a calendar month of its first MOT. In this case, the vehicle owner would need to present their registration document.

If the vehicle is tested earlier than one month before its due date, the MOT will only run for twelve months

When does your vehicle need testing?

If a vehicle is registered with no prior use on the road, the MOT will be required three years after the date of registration. For example, a vehicle registered 'from new' on 1 April 2007 will require its MOT no later than 1 April 2010.

If a vehicle is used prior to registration, as would be the case with an import, the MOT will be required three years from the end of the year of manufacture. For example a vehicle manufactured at any time in 2007 will require an MOT no later than 31 December 2010.

About the MOT

The first test is required once a vehicle is three years old. Different rules apply if the vehicle is used as a taxi . When your vehicle is tested, the MOT looks at some important items to see if it meets the legal requirements. You should be aware that the MOT certificate is not a guarantee of the general mechanical conditions of a vehicle.

What Do We Test?

Brakes

We will perform tests on your brakes to check their condition, operation and performance. Specifically we test your handbrake, the foot brake and its anti-lock breaking mechanism, and all the brake components.

Doors

Your vehicle doors must open and close, from both the inside and the outside, and once closed they should latch securely.

Exhaust Emissions

We will check that your vehicle meets the acceptable level for emissions. The exact level will vary depending on the age of your vehicle and whether it's petrol or diesel.

Fuel System

The fuel cap on your vehicle must fasten and seal securely and there should be no leakages. Don't forget to leave us your key so we can test this!

Horn

We'll check your horn is in good working order and is the correct type for your vehicle.

Lights

All the external lights of your vehicle are tested for their condition, operation and security; the head lights, the front and rear position lamps, the fog lights, the indicators and hazard lights, the brake lights, the rear registration light as well as the rear reflectors. The headlights will also be checked to ensure they are aimed correctly.

Mirrors

We'll check your vehicle has rear and side view mirrors and that these are attached securely and are in good working order.

Registration Plate

Your registration plate must be in a legible condition, using the correct format of letters and numbers and securely fastened.

Steering

We test that your power steering, the steering control and steering system are in good working order

Suspension

The rear suspension and wheel bearings, front suspension, wheel bearings, drive shafts and the shock absorbers must be in good working order.

Vehicle Structure

Your vehicle must have a sound structure and be free from excessive corrosion or damage in certain key areas. Also there must be no sharp edges.

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)

We will check that the VIN number welded to your vehicle matches the VIN number your car is registered to.

Wheel and Tyres

We check that your wheels and tyres are in good condition and are securely fastened. We also check the tyre size, type and tread depth. Your spare tyre is not a testable item. However we will always advice you of any defects found during your MOT test.

Windscreen

Your windscreen is checked for visibility and condition and must provide a good view of the road.

Windscreen Wipers and Washers

Your wipers and washers must be in full working order to ensure you have good visibility of the road.