If your car in the UK is over three years old, then you, like many people, will need to put your car in for its MOT test. These can be stressful times, even if your vehicle seems to be OK, as there can sometimes be things wrong that you don’t know about until it’s tested.
However, there are some steps that can help you prepare for your annual MOT. So, we have below detailed three things you ought to think about before your vehicle’s next MOT.
1. Check Your Car Over Before You Go
There are many things that you can do before you take your car for its MOT. Some of these actions you can take yourself, in order to maximise the chances of your vehicle passing its MOT at the first attempt.
- Around 20% of cars will fail their MOT because of a blown headlight or indicator. These can be easily replaced, and you should have a manual that will explain how to replace them. Check all of your lights before the MOT Service in Laindon. This includes the number plate lights, fog lights and rear brake lights.
- Your registration plates need to be securely fixed and easy to read. If there are any parts of the number plate that are broken or damaged, then this can result in a failure. It can be easy to find replacements and some stores will fit them for you as well.
- Another big reason for cars failing their MOT is because the wheels or tyres are not up to code. You should check your tyres for any wear, bulges, cracks, or other damage. The ‘20p test’ is a well-known way of checking tyre tread depth, so you don’t need to have specialised equipment or tools in order to take responsible steps.
2. When to Book Your Car For an MOT
It is important that you book your car in for its MOT at the right time. If you are unsure when your car is due, you can check the paperwork you were given on your last MOT. The DVLA will also hold data on your car’s last MOT so that you can check it on their website.
As a rule, you cannot get a new MOT more than one month (minus a day) before your due date. You also must get the car tested by the previous testing date.
Your other alternative if your car isn’t ready to have its MOT is to register it as SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification). This allows you to keep the car off the road after its MOT has expired. You are not allowed to keep the car on a public road or drive the car until it passes an MOT.
3. What to do if the Car Fails the MOT
No matter how new or old your car may be, there is a chance that it may fail the MOT. If your car does fail, then you will need to decide what you want to do. The main option is to get the car fixed and get a quote on what it will cost. The other option is to take the car somewhere to get it fixed and then get it retested.
For small problems, you will likely be happy to get it fixed. However, for major issues, this can be a problem, especially if the cost is high. For some cars, the cost of fixing it might be more than the car is worth, so it might not be financially viable.
Other Things to Consider
Because there are many cars that need to have an MOT every year, garages can become booked up as they can only complete so many MOTs per day. Also, not every garage is accredited to be able to carry out MOT testing.
You should contact garages well in advance of your MOT due date so that you can get it booked in time. It is also a good idea to have alternative transport available if possible, in case your car needs to have work carried out on it.
Conclusion
It is always good to be prepared for any eventuality when it comes to your car’s MOT. You should check your car before it goes in to ensure you can fix any minor issues. It is also important to be aware of any possible issues that you know will need addressing.