Pre MOT Checks

It's that time again, your car's due it's MOT. A pre MOT check is well worth the time it takes to carry out, even if you're not mechanically minded. There's nothing worse than your car failing it's MOT on something minor that takes 5 minutes to fix and then having to have a re-test.

Some of the checks listed below may not apply to some cars registered before 1986 and 1980 and indeed other dates (check with the MOT Station).

Some Easy Pre MOT Checks That Anyone Can Do:

• Check the windscreen for cracks, chips and deep scratches
• Check the wiper blade condition and washer operation
• Seat belt condition of buckles and webbing. note: your seat belt may work on inertia – seek advice if needed
• Tyre condition and tread depth (1.6mm minimum over three quarters of the tyre)
• Wheels – are there any cracks, big chunks out of it or is it buckled. Any missing wheels nuts?
• Rust/corrosion on body or underneath the car, any holes
• Any loose bumpers and other trim
• Check light bulbs (driving, main, side lights, brake lights, indicators, reversing light, fog lights (if fitted), 4 way hazard lights, rear number plate lights)
• Make sure the rear reflectors are showing
• Check light lenses aren't broken
• Ensure the horn operates, check tone and loudness
• Check exterior mirrors are ok
• Are number plates secure and showing correctly
• Do doors open and close easily from inside and outside car
• Handbrake - Pull the handbrake up, if it takes more than a few clicks before it will hold the car on a hill, the cable may need adjusting
• Check brake pedal travel
• Brake pedal rubber ok
• Does the fuel cap seals and lock ok
• Check steering wheel condition – is it secure and without play
• Check the Exhaust isn't hanging off or blowing
• Suspension - Do the shocks bounce if you push the car down on one corner? If it returns without bouncing more than once or twice, it is probably ok
• Make sure your car is reasonably clean

Here is a check-list from an old MOT test Sheet:
There are now over 150 checks carried out during an MOT.
Note: that the results of your MOT are now input into a computer and held by VOSA, this is to provide increased security against fraud.

Items Tested:

Steering ans Suspension
Steering control
Steering mechanism/system
Power steering
Front suspension
Rear Suspension
Transmission shafts
Wheel bearings
Shock absorbers
Wheel alignment

Brakes
ABS warning system/controls
Condition of service brake system
Condition of parking brake system
Service brake performance
Parking brake performance
Additional brakng devices

Tyres and Wheels
Tyre size/type
Tyre load/speed rating
Tyre condition
Road wheels

Seatbelts
Mounting/condition/operation

General
Drivers view of the road
Exhaust system
Exhaust emissions
General vehicle condition
Mirrors
Fuel system
Registration plates and VIN numbers
Speedo
Speed limiter
Driving controls
Glazing

Why not take a look at the general maintenance article to help with your pre MOT checks as well.

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