An MOT test or short for Ministry of Transport test is a test you need to take and pass each year to drive your car around the UK legally. In most cases, a new car requires its first MOT test after three years, followed by an annual inspection over the next three years. A vehicle check can ensure that it’s roadworthy and safe. There are thousands of approved MOT testing stations in the UK. You can schedule an MOT test, or if you can’t do it for some reason, you can let a person insured under your vehicle drive it to the testing station for you. Some MOT testing stations also offer a collect and delivery service. They will pick up the car at your place and deliver it back once done. They check various components when doing the test. You can do different things to prepare your vehicle for the examination and pass the MOT test. We listed some of them below.
Check the oil and brake fluid
The oil and brake fluid are vital in driving a car. If you don’t have enough oil, the parts will scratch each other, damaging the engine and eventually causing the vehicle to stop. Dirty oil could cause the filters to clog, damaging the car. If you don’t have enough brake fluid, it could cause accidents since you will not have enough power to stop the vehicle, especially at high speed. Check the oil and brake fluid levels by using the dipstick and ensuring their level is between the minimum and maximum marking. If the oil or fluid is dark, it’s also time to change them.
Ensure all lights work
The vehicle lights are also some of the parts they check in an MOT test. Double-check your headlights, rear lights, and fog lights to ensure they are all working. The lights on your dashboard and the warning and signal lights should also work. If you are around Birmingham, an MOT Birmingham testing station can do the test for you. Some testing stations offer their service for free if you fail the test. They will then give you another free test if you let them service your car to fix the issues.
Check the mirrors
Like the lights, mirrors are also vital for safe driving. They let you see the other cars and obstacles on the road and help avoid accidents like a collision. Make sure they are in perfect condition with no cracks or damages.
Ensure the windscreen is clear
Cracks, scratches and damages on the windscreen could affect the driver’s view and cause visibility concerns. If the damage is on the driver’s side, it shouldn’t be over 10mm, or it should not obstruct the driver’s view. If it’s on the other parts of the windscreen, it shouldn’t be more than 40mm. If it’s more than that or obstructing the driver’s view, it’s best to have it fixed.
Verify the horn works
The horn is another vital component of the vehicle as it could warn other cars or pedestrians that you are on the way. It’s one of the easiest to check, so be sure not to miss that.
Take care of your vehicle and keep it properly maintained to ensure that it passes the MOT test and keep you safe on the road.
