What Is Checked During An MOT Test?

The MOT test is a rather necessary inspection. It is an annual test, compulsory for any vehicle three years old since its date of registration. The MOT test ensures that the vehicle is fit for driving. Furthermore, it also concerns itself with the emission levels of the car. This alone highlights the significance that an MOT test plays in a driver's life. 

Thus, it is an inspection one has to pass. But it is easier said than done. To pass an MOT test, drivers have to prepare thoroughly. But to do so, they should know what is actually involved in the test. The following blog answers that question.

What Is An MOT Test?

The MOT test stands for the Ministry of Transport test. It started back in the 1960s. It is a comprehensive inspection of a vehicle, which involves several checks. The MOT ascertains that the car is fit for driving. As such, it concerns itself with road safety. Furthermore, in recent years, the test has also evolved to include environmental aspects. It checks the emission levels of the car. This ensures that the pollution remains below the permissible limits.

To pass the MOT Test in Reading, drivers have to be fully prepared for this. They should know the different car components that will get evaluated. These checks are as follows:

Car Lights And Electrical Equipment

The car lights, along with the electrical system, are one of the focal points of the inspection. They make up a crucial part of the safety features of the vehicle. As such, the lights have to work and have to function optimally if the driver wants to pass the test. This includes almost every light on the car, such as:

• Headlights
• Rear lights
• Tail lights
• Brake lights
• Indicators
• Fog lights
• Cabin lights

The wiring and the electrical components also come under the radar. This includes the battery as well. Before going for the MOT test, drivers should go for a Car Service in Reading. This will help drivers take care of any potential problems while preparing for their upcoming inspection.

Steering And Suspension Systems

The steering of a car allows a driver to control it effectively. The MOT inspection also concerns itself with the steering. This checks how the vehicle responds to the driver's input. 

The test focuses on the steering wheel itself. It ensures the steering wheel is secure and in good condition. The MOT will also inspect the steering column for any excessive movement. This is indicative of wear and tear. It will also check fluid levels in power steering systems. There should be no leakage, as it will lead to an MOT failure. 

Similarly, the test will look for any signs of wear and tear in the suspension system. This includes components like shock absorbers and coil springs. They should be rust-free and without any physical damage. The test will also check for any damage in the suspension joints or bushes. Thus, the vehicle has to be fully functional to pass the test.

Braking Efficiency

Undoubtedly, braking is integral to the car's safety. Thus, it should not come as a surprise that the braking system is a focal point of the MOT test. The inspection will cover the physical aspect of brake components and their efficiency.

The checks will start with the different components like the brake pads, discs, rotors, callipers, etc. Drivers have to ensure that the brake pads and rotors are not worn out. Before heading for an MOT test, they can look for warning signs that indicate brake problems, such as a loud screeching sound. This sound is indicative of a worn-out brake pad or rotor. If they hear this, they should first head to a garage and get a mechanic to look at the brakes.

Other than the pads and rotors, the inspection will also look for any corrosion or leaks. Since the braking system uses brake fluid, any leakage will indicate a problem that can lead to an MOT failure. 

Tyre Conditions

Since tyres are the sole contact point between the car and the road, they are rather important. This is true for the MOT test as well. The checks will ensure that the tyres are in an optimal shape. They will look for any physical signs of damage, be it cuts, bulges, or scratches.

The tyre should also have sufficient tread depth. It is illegal to drive with a tyre that fails to meet the minimum tread depth of 1.6 mm. Moreover, the MOT will also check the air pressure of the tyres. To pass the test, the driver must take good care of the tyres. 

General Body Structure

The MOT test will also check the structural integrity of the car. This involves checking things like:

• Doors
• Windows
• Mirrors
• Registration plate
• Tow Bar
• Windscreen
• Chassis

The external body should be rust-free, and the various external components should be functional. There should also be no damage to pass the MOT test. If there are any sharp or protruding edges on the body, it will lead to a failure. All the doors, windows, mirrors, etc. should be damage-free as well. The registration plate should be clear, readable, and adhere to the various guidelines.

Exhaust Systems And Emission Levels

The MOT test also checks the exhaust system of the vehicle. It ensures that the emission levels of the car are under the prescribed limit. This minimises pollution and lowers the carbon footprint of the vehicle. During the test, an analyser will measure the carbon monoxide in the emissions. 

Conclusion

Passing the MOT is crucial if the driver wants to keep driving the vehicle. As such, he should prepare accordingly by visiting a garage. He can go for regular car service to ensure that the vehicle remains in an optimal shape. By focusing on the various components mentioned above, he can prepare for the upcoming MOT with ease.