If you own a vehicle, then you will have likely had to arrange an MOT test for it before - if not, then we’re sure you’ve at least heard of MOT testing.
MOT testing is important for all vehicles. We’ll take a closer look at why in this blog.
What is an MOT Test?
Before we dive in, let us first discuss what an MOT test actually is. MOT stands for Ministry of Transport, which was the governing department that was responsible for checking the roadworthiness of vehicles when the test was introduced back in 1960.
The test itself is an inspection of your vehicle, ensuring it meets the necessary environmental and road safety standards. A vehicle’s first MOT test takes place in the third year after its registration, after which the test becomes an annual requirement.
What an MOT Test Checks for
An MOT test checks a wide range or your car’s elements, including:
Axles, wheels, tyres and suspension
Body, structure and attachments
Steering
Brakes
Brake fluid contamination
Brake pads warning light
Fuel system
Exhaust emissions
Diesel particulate filter (DPF)
Fluid leaks (other than coolant and Adblue)
Lights, battery and electrical wiring
Daytime running lights
Reversing lights
Horn
Number plates
Seatbelts
Speedometer
Visibility
It’s important to note that an MOT test doesn’t check the condition of your car’s engine, gearbox or clutch.
Why Book an MOT Test?
Legal Compliance
The first reason why it’s important to book your annual MOT test is because this is a legal requirement. Unless your vehicle is less than three years old or on the exemption list, then it’s illegal to drive a vehicle with an expired or failed MOT (unless you’re driving it to a pre-booked MOT test or you’re driving to get it repaired following a failed MOT inspection).
If you are caught driving with an expired or failed MOT certificate, then you could be fined up to £1,000. If your vehicle was classed as ‘dangerous’ at its last MOT test, then this penalty could rise up to £2,500 and you may even receive three points on your licence.
Peace of Mind
Not only do you want to arrange your annual MOT test for legal compliance and to avoid the repercussions of not doing so, but it’s also in your best interest for your own safety and peace of mind.
By arranging your MOT test, you will have peace of mind that your vehicle is safe to drive, ensuring you and any passengers won’t be put at risk that could otherwise be avoided. If it turns out that your vehicle is unsafe to drive and thus fails its MOT, then you will be glad to have booked it in the first place, rather than risking an accident that very much could otherwise have happened.
Car MOT Booking with Euroroute Recovery
Is your vehicle due for an MOT test? Place your booking with us here at Euroroute Recovery.
Based at our recovery depots in Dumfries and St Boswells, we offer MOT services for class 4, 5 and 7 vehicles, as well as a range of other garage services, including vehicle servicing and diagnostics, tyre changes and 3D wheel alignment.
Get in touch with us today to arrange for your vehicle to be seen.
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