How important are MOT tests?

/ /

All UK motorists are required by law to take their vehicles for an MOT (Ministry of Transport) test every year to keep their cars, motorcycles or vans on the roads.

But why are MOTs so important, and why does your motor need to be inspected by a professional technician if you know it’s working perfectly?

Here’s everything you need to know.

So, what is an MOT test and what does it involve?

If you’ve been driving for a while, then you’ll know all too well what to expect when you take your car for an MOT in Warrington.

But for those of you who have recently passed your driving test and aren’t quite sure what they are and how they work, we’ll talk you through the finer points below.

The annual MOT test checks and ensures that your vehicle meets acceptable environmental and road safety standards.

For vehicles that are at least 3 years old, an MOT test is required by law.

During the test, a mechanic will check the following:

  • Vehicle identification number and registration plates
  • Lights
  • Steering and suspension
  • Wipers and washer bottle
  • Windscreen
  • Horn
  • Seatbelts
  • Fuel system and emissions
  • Bodywork
  • Doors and mirrors
  • Brakes

If problems are flagged up in any of these areas, your vehicle must be repaired before you can legally drive it again.

For smaller issues, the work may be conducted on the day of the MOT, meaning you’ll have your motor back the same day.

However, for more extensive repair work, you may need to make a separate booking with your mechanic.

Once your vehicle has passed the MOT test, you’ll be issued with a certificate that is valid for 12 months.

This certificate will detail any work that your mechanic has carried out.

Why are MOT tests so important?

There are many reasons why taking your car for an MOT test is important, including:

It promotes good practice when maintaining your vehicle – We’re all guilty of leaving the odd bit of rubbish lying around on the back seat, but this won’t sit well with the mechanic who’s checking over your vehicle.

Even if your vehicle is something of an organised mess, it could still result in a fail. In fact, a cluttered vehicle is one of the top 5 reasons why a fail is issued. So, make sure to give it a once over before you hand over the keys.

Annual MOTs should encourage you to keep on top of your vehicle – This includes keeping it clean, topping up the various fluids (screen wash, coolant/anti-freeze, engine oil, etc), and making sure your tyres and windscreen for example are in good condition.

It’s a legal requirement – It’s important to make note of when your MOT expires, as it’s illegal to drive your car after this date.

If you’re caught, you could be prosecuted – receiving an unlimited fine, at least 6-8 points on your licence and even a ban on driving.

You should be notified by your test centre or garage when your current certificate is due to expire. This will give you time to arrange a suitable appointment to renew your MOT in Warrington.

It helps ensure the safety of yourself, your passengers and other road users – Last, but certainly not least, an MOT test helps ensure not just your safety, but that of everyone else on the roads, too.

Although it’s not as detailed as a full service, an MOT test will still identify many problems with your vehicle. These could include anything from your bonnet not opening correctly, your mirrors providing poor visibility, or even that dodgy seat you’ve been ignoring.

Anything out of order that could put you, your passengers or fellow drivers and pedestrians in danger, will be identified during your MOT test.

Ready for your MOT in Warrington?

If your MOT certificate is up for renewal or if you have a general enquiry about an MOT in Warrington, be sure to get in touch with a reputable, experienced team of mechanics.

Why not speak to the team at CJ Auto?

They’d be more than happy to provide you with further details about their MOTs and services and provide their expertise. Give them a call today!