MOT Test
Potters Garage is registered by the Vehicle inspectorate to carry out class 4 MOT tests. This is the statutory testing of motor vehicles such as cars and light commercials.
If your vehicle is 3 years or older you are required by law to have an annual safety check, the ministry of transport test, commonly known as the MOT Test. The purpose of the MOT test is to ensure the vehicle meets the minimum safety level required by law.
During the MOT test the nominated tester, a person authorised by the government body called VOSA (Vehicle and Operator Services Agency) will conduct an inspection and a comprehensive series of checks around the vehicle, including the interior, exterior, under the bonnet and under the vehicle.
The result of each check is recorded- if the vehicle passes a VT20 ‘pass’ certificate is issued. If the vehicle fails to meet the required standard a VT30 ‘failure’ document is issued. Items that are not quite a failure, but worthy of a mention to you so you can keep an eye on them are drawn to your attention as ‘advisory’ items.
It is your responsibility to ensure your vehicle is examined every 12 months. Without a current MOT certificate, you will be unable to drive your vehicle lawfully or renew your road fund license. Recent computerisation of the MOT testing system by VOSA means police and mobile camera units can now check remotely to see if your vehicle has a current MOT.
The penalty for not having an up to date MOT certificate could be a fine. Also if the vehicle is involved in an accident you may be asked to produce your MOT certificate. An insurance claim could be affected by the absence of your MOT, especially in the case of injury.
The MOT test for your vehicle
Everyone who uses a vehicle on the road must keep it in a roadworthy condition. The MOT test checks that vehicles meet road safety and environmental standards. The first MOT test for a vehicle is required when it’s three years old. There are different rules if it’s used as a taxi.
The MOT certificate
The MOT certificate confirms that at the time of the test, without dismantling it, the vehicle met the minimum acceptable environmental and road safety standards required by law. It doesn’t mean that the vehicle is roadworthy for the length of time the certificate is valid. The MOT certificate is also no guarantee of the general mechanical condition of your vehicle. The test doesn’t cover the condition of the engine, clutch or gearbox.
What the MOT test includes
The MOT looks at some important items on your car to see that they meet key legal requirements at the time of test.
The body and vehicle structure is free from excessive corrosion or damage in specific areas and there are no sharp edges likely to cause injury.
The fuel system has no leaks and the fuel cap fastens and seals securely. The fuel cap will need to be opened so be sure the key is available.
The exhaust emissions - the vehicle meets the requirements for exhaust emissions, dependant on the age and fuel type of the vehicle.
The exhaust system is secure, complete, without serious leaks and silences effectively. The seat belts are installed are checked for type, condition, operation and security. All compulsory seat belts must be in place.
The seats: The front seats are secure. Front and rear backseats can be secured in the upright position.
Components to be inspected
Doors: The doors latch securely in closed position. Front doors should open from inside and outside the vehicle. Rear doors may need to be opened to gain access to testable items.
The mirrors: The minimum numbers are on the vehicle, their condition and security.
Load security: Boot or tailgate can be secured in the closed position.
The brakes: Their condition, operation and performance (efficiency test). Note the removal of the road wheels is not part of the test.
The tyres and wheels: Their condition, security, size, type and tread depth. Spare tyres are not inspected.
The registration plates: Their condition, security, characters correctly formed and spaced.
The lights: Their condition, operation and security. Headlamps for aim.
The bonnet: Securely latches in the closed position.
The wipers and washers: Operate to give the driver a clear view ahead.
The windscreen: Its condition and the driver’s view of the road.The horn: Operates correctly and is of a suitable type.
The steering and suspension: Are of a satisfactory condition and operation.
The vehicle identification number (VIN): Is on vehicles first used on or after 1 August 1980. Not more than one different VIN is displayed except on multistage build vehicles.
Where to go for an MOT test
The blue three triangles logo is displayed to identify authorised test stations. The maximum fee for the test must be displayed on a poster inside every test station. The station, however, can charge less than what is on the poster if they want to.
How vehicles are tested
MOT test stations have designated test bays where they conduct the test, using a range of equipment that meets the required specification for MOT testing. The standard test procedures are laid out in an inspection manual that the test station should make available on request.
If your vehicle has failed the test, you’ll be given a failure document with reference to this manual. You can watch the test from a designated viewing area but you are not allowed to interrupt the tester while he is working.
All MOT testers have been on a training course with the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) and their test results are checked regularly.
Who supervises the scheme?
VOSA is the government agency responsible for supervising the MOT scheme. It does this by:
- authorising MOT test stations and approving MOT testers
- setting standards for testing and requirements for authorisation for the MOT test station and testers
- training authorised examiners and MOT testers
- visiting MOT test stations and carrying out checks to ensure testing standards and facilities are maintained
- giving advice and taking disciplinary action where tests are not being carried out to the required standards
- dealing with appeals and complaints from MOT customers
Check your vehicle’s MOT status and history online
You can check if an MOT certificate is legal or if a vehicle has failed an MOT test by doing an MOT check online. This will give you details about past tests. Find out what you need to get started.
To check Click
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Motoring/OwningAVehicle/Mot/DG_10020539