Everything You Need To Know About MOT Testing Services

Owning a vehicle should make your life easier, not harder. So, when it comes to MOT testing, how can you keep it simple? This article will cover where MOT tests come from, why they’re needed, how they work, and how our team at Acorn Tyres can help.

What does MOT stand for?

While we commonly refer to an MOT as the test itself, MOT actually stands for The Ministry of Transport. This ministry is know what we currently recognise as the Department of Transport. The test itself was first developed in 1960 in Great Britian, and was originally entirely optional. Since then, the test has become a requirement. MOTs are useful, as they can warn you of any upcoming issues that may arise with your vehicle, such as a need for new tyres.

Why do I need an MOT certificate?

MOTs are a legal requirement. Without a valid MOT certificate, you could be prosecuted. This could lead to a fine of up to £1,000, making it very costly to miss. An MOT needs to be carried out three years after a new vehicle’s registration, and from then on once a year. Some specific vehicles need to be tested at one year old, so it’s important to check the rules around your car as soon as possible to avoid being fined.

How do they work?

At an MOT test, the trained mechanic will check a variety of features within your car. Essentially, your car needs to be roadworthy and safe to drive, without any dangerous problems. Following the checks, the mechanic will let you know whether your car has passed or failed its MOT, and any potential issues that should be monitored from then on.

Examples of car components that may be tested at an MOT:

●     Brakes

●     Emissions

●     Exhaust

●     Horn

●     Lights

●     Tyres and wheels

●     Tow bar (if applicable)

●     Mirrors, wipers, and the windscreen

●     Registration

●     Exterior

●     Doors

●     Seatbelts and seats

If your car fails its MOT testing service, you will not be able to continue driving your vehicle until the issues are fixed. There are some exceptions to this rule, bu generally it is important not to continue driving a failed vehicle. If you do continue to drive a vehicle that has failed its MOT for having a ‘dangerous’ problem, you risk being fined up to £2,500, getting 3 penalty points on your license or being banned from driving entirely.

A failed MOT will also go on your car’s MOT vehicle history, which could impact its further resale. To avoid this, check the overall health of your car regualrly, as well as getting any repairs before the MOT testing service goes ahead. Car servicing can be incredibly helpful when looking to check this.

Where can I get one?

At Acorn Tyres, we offer a high-quality MOT testing service, helping you to achieve the certification you need. Our experienced team will explore your automobile’s health fully, making sure you and your loved ones are safe in your vehicle. Aside from the test itself, we also offer car servicing, helping to prepare your car to pass first-time.

Visit our website to learn more about what we do, or contact us directly to speak to a member of our team.