Approximately half of all faults discovered during your MOT test could be avoided by carrying out simple maintenance. So it is worthwhile checking items like lights, wiper blades and tyres beforehand so that your vehicle has the best chance of passing first time.
Lamps, reflectors and electrical equipment
Lights and reflectors must be correctly positioned and secure and not obscured. Show the
correct colour and not be adversely affected by the operation of any
other light.
All Headlights aim should be below the horizontal, so as not to dazzle other drivers.
Horn must emit a continuous uniform note and must be loud enough to be heard by another road user.
Battery must be secure and not show any signs of leaking.
Electrical wiring should be secure and must not be damaged to the point where it is likely to short circuit or become detached.
Vehicles with a towbar - any
electrical socket will be tested for its condition and that it
correctly operates the trailer parking lights, brake lights, indicators
and rear fog lights.
Tyres and road wheels
Tyres must
be of an appropriate speed and load rating for the vehicle. Tread
depth must not be below the legal limit and will also will be examined
for lumps, bulges, tears, exposure of the cord and tread separation.
Vehicles with run-flat tyres, the warning light must operate correctly. Road wheels must be in good general condition.
Exhaust, fuel and emissions
Exhaust system is inspected to ensure it is secure and doesn't leak. If your vehicle
was originally fitted with a catalytic converter, it must still be
present.
Fuel system will be checked for leaks and the tank cap must seal properly.
Emissions tested
using a gas analyser probe while the engine is running to test the
smoke emitted from the exhaust. Carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons must
fall within the legal limit. A visual check for excessive dense blue or
black smoke emitted from the exhaust, which is a cause for MOT failure.
Windscreen
The
windscreen directly in front of the driver must not be damaged or
obstruct the view larger than 10mm. Outside this area there must not be
any damage or other obstruction larger than 40mm.
Steering and suspension
Steering check the strength and condition of the steering wheel inspect for wear or damage to the steering components.
Any locking device will be tested to ensure it only locks when the engine is not running.
Power steering must have at least the minimum level of power steering fluid in the reservoir.
Suspension components and shock absorbers will be checked for excessive corrosion, distortion and fractures.
Brakes The condition of the brakes, pedals and levers are inspected, as well as any warning lights. A performance test will be carried out to test brake efficiency.
Seat belts and restraint systems
Each seat belt plus any attachment is checked for its security and condition.
Body and Structure
Body A
general inspection is made of the body, engine mountings, seats , doors
and chassis. All components must be free from excessive corrosion and
must not have any sharp edges that might cause injury.
Registration plates must
be fitted at the front and rear. The plates must be secure and clearly
legible to someone standing 20 metres away from the car. The characters
should be correctly formed and spaced.
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) must permanently display a legible VIN.
Speedometer must be fitted checked so that it can be illuminated.
Mirrors and wipers
Rear
view mirrors and wing mirrors must be secure and provide adequate views
to the rear and side. Wipers and washers must sweep a wide enough area
to give the driver an adequate view of the road