Making sure your vehicle has a valid MOT is about keeping your car safe, roadworthy, and running the way it should. If you’re unsure when to book or what’s involved, you’re not alone. Plenty of drivers forget important details that could lead to delays or even fines.
Understanding the essentials can save you time, money, and hassle. Keep reading to find out exactly what you need to know before your next MOT.
Know When Your MOT is Due
Once your car hits three years old, it needs an MOT every year to stay road legal. It only takes a minute to check the expiry date online, as you only need to type in your registration number. Forgetting could land you with a fine, and it might even affect your insurance, so it’s worth staying on top of it.
To avoid last-minute stress, book an MOT up to a month before the current certificate runs out. The new certificate will still be valid for a full year from the original expiry date.
What the MOT Actually Covers
The MOT test checks many critical safety and environmental features. This includes the brakes, lights, tyres, seatbelts, exhaust system, and even windscreen wipers.
If something fails the MOT, you’ll get a list of reasons. Some faults are minor and won’t stop you from driving, while others are dangerous and must be fixed before you can legally use the car again.
What to Bring to the Test
You don’t need to bring a load of paperwork to the garage. If your car has had previous MOTs, the tester can access these records online. But it’s still smart to bring the following documents:
- Your vehicle logbook (V5C) to confirm the registration.
- Your current MOT certificate, especially if you’re switching garages.
- Recent service records or repair history that help shed light on any issues.
Bringing this information helps avoid delays if something unexpected comes up during the test.
Common Reasons for MOT Failure
Most of the MOT failures are from problems that could have been fixed easily in advance. The most frequent issues include blown bulbs, worn tyres, dirty number plates, and cracked windscreens.
Giving your car a quick check before the test could make all the difference. Wipe your windows, test your horn, and check if all lights work. Small steps can stop small problems from turning into a retest.
MOT Retests and What Happens Next
If your car fails the test, you can leave it at the same garage for repairs and a free partial retest within 10 working days. If you take it elsewhere or wait longer, you’ll likely need a full retest.
Remember that you can’t legally drive a vehicle that has failed its MOT unless you’re going directly to a pre-booked test or repair appointment. Doing otherwise puts you at risk of a fine or penalty points.
Stay Ahead and Avoid Hassle
Getting your MOT doesn’t need to be a headache. Planning ahead, checking your car beforehand, and knowing what to expect can make the process quick and stress-free. A valid MOT keeps you legal and gives you peace of mind every time you get behind the wheel. Keep your documents handy, book your slot early, and drive safely.
