As a car owner, one of your obligations is to ensure your vehicle is roadworthy and safe to drive. One way to meet this responsibility is through an annual MOT (Ministry of Transport) test. An MOT is a legal requirement for all vehicles in the UK aged three years or older. This test checks the safety, emissions, and roadworthiness of your vehicle. 

1. Vehicle Identification

During an MOT test, the first thing the examiner does is to check the vehicle’s identification. This includes the registration number, vehicle make, and model.

2. Lights and Signaling

The examiner will then proceed to inspect the lights and signaling of your vehicle. This includes the headlights, brake lights, indicators, hazard lights, and reversing lights. The aim is to ensure they are in good working condition and aligned correctly.

3. Steering and Suspension

The steering and suspension of the vehicle will be assessed next. The examiner will check for any wear or damage to the steering wheel, shock absorbers, and suspension system. This helps to guarantee that the vehicle is stable, and the driver has full control of the car.

4. Brakes

The brakes are crucial to the safety of any vehicle, so they must be in good working order. The MOT examiner will inspect the brake pads, discs, and the handbrake. They will ensure that there is no excessive wear or damage to these parts.

5. Tires and Wheels

The tires and wheels of your vehicle are also significant safety features. The examiner will inspect the tires for any damage, punctures, or worn treads. They will also check the wheels to ensure they are not damaged, buckled, or distorted.

6. Windscreen, Wipers, and Mirrors

The windscreen, wipers, and mirrors are all essential parts of the car’s safety features. The examiner will assess the windscreen for any damage, cracks, or chips. They will also check the wiper blades to ensure they are in good condition and can clean the windscreen effectively. Lastly, they will check the mirrors for any damage or misalignment.

7. Exhaust and Emissions

The examiner will also check the exhaust and emissions of your vehicle. They will check for any leaks, cracks, or damage to the exhaust system. They will also check the emissions to ensure they are within the legal limits.

8. Seats and Seatbelts

The seats and seatbelts are significant safety features of the vehicle. The examiner will check the seatbelts for any wear or damage, and the seats for stability and security.

9. Other Factors

Lastly, the examiner will check other factors such as the horn, registration plates, and the overall condition of the vehicle.