The importance of having an MOT
The MOT, or Ministry of Transport test – is an essential part of making sure that cars that are driving around the country maintain the basic roadworthiness. It was first introduced in the year 1960 and is now an integral element of maintaining and operating cars within the UK.
Since the MOT extension, designed to keep workers moving during the coronavirus outbreak, is over and more people than ever are heading to garages to have their vehicles tested. What exactly is it and why are we required to have one? Let’s discover.
What exactly is an MOT?
An MOT is a routine maintenance inspection that is performed once a year for vehicles that are more than 3 years of age. An MOT certified tester will conduct the process and concentrate on the most important areas of the vehicle, including brakes, the lights, and the windshield wipers. Additionally, they’ll conduct an emissions test to make sure that the vehicle is in compliance with standards.
Are there any components of a vehicle that the MOT can’t test?
While an MOT test Cheltenham can examine many aspects of a vehicle but there are certain parts which aren’t examined. The MOT tester doesn’t look on the gearbox, engine, or clutch systems, even though they must be in good functioning order. For instance, if your vehicle cannot be driven on an inspection ramp on its own power, it will be ruled out immediately.
What is the average price for an MOT? cost me?
Although you’ve probably seen garages advertise’special offers” for MOTs, the truth is that the most they are allowed to charge is £54.85. Like most things it’s a good idea to look around to ensure that you’re paying the correct amount.
If your vehicle fails its MOT, you’ll be able to book it back to have a retest in part at the same testing centre, which is usually no cost or at a discounted cost. You’ll have to retest within 10 days of the date you be eligible, but.
How do you think the MOT test will be?
Although an MOT test typically lasts between 45 to an hour, if your vehicle requires any additional work , you might be waiting longer. We’d recommend planning that your vehicle will be on the road for the entire day in the event that it needs more work.
What happens if my car is parked?
If your car is able to pass the MOT test you’ll receive an official certificate of passing at the test centre and the certificate will be recorded on the national database. Additionally, you’ll receive a list of any minor or advisory issues that need to be investigated and addressed in the near future. Then, you can drive the vehicle away.
If my car is not able to pass its MOT, will I be allowed to drive it off?
If your vehicle fails its MOT, and the certificate is expired, the garage won’t allow you to leave as usual. If, however, your vehicle’s certificate is still valid (if it’s still within expiry date of your test certificate) then you’re able to drive away with it, provided it doesn’t have any dangerous defects noted against it.
If that’s the situation, you aren’t able to quit the testing centre. If you do, you could be at risk of a fine of up to £2,500 if you are caught in the process, and also 3 penalty points to your license and possibly even an immediate ban on driving.
It is necessary to have these issues addressed and the vehicle tested again. If it passes, then you’ll be able to drive off.
Do I need to be a driver with no MOT?
Absolutely no. If you’re caught, you’ll be given a fixed penalty notification of £100. Although no penalty points will be given if you’re found have a vehicle without the MOT certificate, an penalty could be assessed by the courts to the amount of 1,000 £.
Are there any vehicles not required to have an MOT?
There is a limited number of vehicles that don’t require to undergo an MOT test to be legal to drive. This includes vehicles that are that are powered by electricity and that were registered prior to March 1 in 2015, as well as classic cars that were constructed or registered over 40 years ago.