MOT
test centre

It is a legal requirement for all vehicles over the age of 3 years to have a valid MOT certificate. This is to ensure that the vehicle meets the minimum environmental and safety standards set out through Government legislation.

Without a valid MOT certificate you will be unable to renew your road tax and it will adversely affect your insurance.

You can book an MOT up to 28 days before your current certificate expires, any additional days will be added onto your new certificate.

How do we test your vehicle?

We have a  designated test bay where we conduct the test, using the latest equipment that meets the required specification for MOT testing stations. The standard test procedures are laid out in an inspection manual that is available on request.

If your vehicle has failed the test, we will give you a failure document with reference to this manual.
We will also retest your vehicle FREE within 2 weeks.

You can watch the test from our designated viewing area but you are not allowed to interrupt the tester while he is working.

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 the test.

Body or vehicle structure and general items

Free from excessive corrosion or damage in specific areas. No sharp edges likely to cause injury. Towbars for security, condition, inappropriate repairs or modification. Correct operation of 13 pin electrical socket. Speedometer condition and operation. Engine mountings.

Fuel system

No leaks. Security and condition of pipes or hoses. Fuel cap fastens and seals securely. Note the fuel cap will need to be opened. Make sure the key is available.

Exhaust emissions

Vehicle meets the requirements for exhaust emissions, dependent on the age and fuel type of the vehicle.

Exhaust system

Secure. Complete. Catalyst missing where one was fitted as standard. Without serious leaks and is not too noisy.

Seat belts

All the seat belts fitted are checked for type, condition, operation and security. All mandatory seat belts must be in place. Check of the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) for air bags and seat belt pre tensioners.

Seats

Driver’s seat can be adjusted. All seats for security and seat backs can be secured in the upright position.

Doors

Latch securely in closed position. Front doors should open from inside and outside the vehicle. Rear doors should open from outside the vehicle. Hinges and catches for security and condition.

Mirrors

Minimum number required, condition and security.

Load security

Boot or tailgate can be secured in the closed position.

Brakes

Condition including inappropriate repairs or modifications, operation and performance (efficiency test). Note the removal of the road wheels and trims are not part of the test. ABS or electronic stability control (ESC) where fitted. Check of the MIL for ABS, electronic stability control, electronic park brake and brake fluid warning.

Tyres and wheels

Condition, security, tyre size and type and tread depth. Spare tyres are not inspected. Note: vehicles first used on or after 1 January 2012 – check of the MIL for tyre pressure monitoring.

Registration plates

Condition, security, colour, characters correctly formed and spaced.

Lights

Condition, operation including HID and LED headlamps for cleaning, self levelling and security. Headlamp aim. Main beam warning light.

Bonnet

Securely latches in the closed position.

Wipers and washers

Operate to give the driver a clear view ahead.

Windscreen

Condition and driver’s view of the road.

Horn

Correct operation and of suitable type.

Steering and suspension

Condition, steering oil level, operation, a check for inappropriate repairs or modification including corrosion to power steering pipes or hoses. Operation of steering lock mechanism. Check of the MIL for electronic power steering and steering lock.

The vehicle identification number (VIN)

Is on vehicles first used on or after 1 August 1980. Only one unique VIN is displayed except on multistage build vehicles.

Electrical

Visible electrical wiring and battery.

I cannot find my MOT certificate

This is not a problem. If you have used ABS before for an MOT, we can reissue the certificate.