Having an MOT? What you Need to Know

If your car is older than three years it is actually a legal requirement that your vehicle needs to be tested annually to make sure that you, as well as other motorists, are not being put at risk. All vehicles that are more than three years old are strictly prohibited from being driven on the roads in the UK, you are only able to use your vehicle if you have been given the official VT20 or VT32 safety certificate.

What does it involve?

The MOT test involves a few kinds of safety checks looking at the internal and external features of your vehicle varying from the steering and suspension, the fuel and exhaust system, the body and structure, electrical wiring and exhaust and emissions. The engineer carrying out the MOT will also take into consideration the more basic internal attributes of the car such as lights, mirrors, seats and doors. The engineer will also test the essential external factors such as the tyres, bonnet and windscreen.

How long will the process take?

Often an MOT service will take between 45 and 60 minutes, you are permitted to observe your MOT from a distance but not disturb the mechanic while it’s being carried out. You are also able to leave your vehicle and the mechanic will give you a call when the MOT is completed.

What reasons may your car fail?

Lots of the faults discovered in MOT tests can be easily avoided by carrying out regular, basic maintenance checks and will usually involve simple upkeep such as changing tyres or replacing a lightbulb. The MOT testing statistics for the UK highlighted that 40% of car owners fail their MOT’s on their first attempt - this is not a serious problem and you can often rectify whatever issues there are very easily.

If your MOT does not pass?

If you fail your MOT - there’s no need to panic. You'll be given a VT30 certificate and you will have to take your vehicle to be repaired to comply with MOT standards. You may not be covered by insurance in which case you are only permitted to drive it to a test centre or garage for the necessary repairs.

Here at Acorn Tyres, If you are looking for a Cheap MOT service, Aylesbury-based Acorn Tyres Aylesbury is the garage that you should call. We at Acorn Tyres Aylesbury can provide you with a quality service that is both quick and efficient. To find out more about the services we offer, please get in touch with us today.