MOT time. It’s stressful for many people but shouldn’t have to leave you feeling worried. Accordingly, we’ve outlined some main things you’ll need to know about MOTs as follows.
Things You Should Know on MOT Checks
Before sending your car for its (or your) first MOT, knowing what’s about to happen could help. Remember, though – the specifics will vary from garage to garage. So, if you’re unsure, contacting your local provider may help.
Can I View my Car’s MOT History
Yes. If you’d like to see your car’s MOT history, you can run a car history check to help. Car history checks allow you to quickly see the history of your car, along with plenty of other details. Some of the features car history checks bring to light can include:
- Vehicle details.
- Number plate registration.
- Finance information.
- MOT history.
- Mileage records.
- Stolen/write-off status.
- And much more.
Altogether, this information can help in many ways. It’s especially useful when buying a new car, as this can allow you to quickly decide if a vehicle is safe or likely to be fraudulent. So, why take chances? Make sure you’ve double checked your car purchase first; this can help you decide if it’s had a clear MOT history or if it needs extra work.
What Vehicles Need an MOT
Generally speaking, most cars will need an MOT after reaching three years of age. Newer cars than this will not need an MOT until they get to three years. However, it’s worth keeping in mind that you should still keep a close eye on the condition of your vehicle. So, even if your car isn’t old enough to need an MOT, inspecting it regularly for safety is still crucial.
What Happens During an MOT
During an MOT, the tester will inspect the overall safety of your vehicle to ensure it meets minimum safety standards. This process is crucial for keeping the car in good condition, especially as it gets older. The test aims to identify any potential factors that could compromise the safety of the vehicle. In addition, the MOT will also determine whether your car meets emissions rules.
What if My Car Fails an MOT
If your car fails its MOT, this isn’t an immediate write-off. Instead, you’ll have a chance to repair the damage. Since the reasons for its failure are noted, these issues can be targeted individually.
In addition to the main cause of failure, you will also be informed of advisory issues. These aren’t necessarily enough to fail the car now, but they could in the future. Repairing advisories before your next MOT is advisable to reduce the risk of the car failing in future.
Final Thoughts
MOTs are a requirement for vehicles over three years old. However, that doesn’t necessarily make them any less stressful. Still, knowing what you’re up against can help, and today’s brief MOT guide may have eased things. But remember: while knowing about MOTs is useful, it’s better still to have a clear understanding of your car’s history. Fortunately, car history checks make this significantly easier, offering a simple way to verify your car’s safety.
