MOT test: A guide for better preparation

A lot of vehicles fail their MOT tests every year due to several mechanical defects. Therefore, most new drivers are not fully confident before the test. Failure in the MOT test does not end your hopes, but a lot of time is wasted in repairs and retests. You can save this time with better preparation. You can get the certificate in the first attempt if you take some essential steps before the test.

This comprehensive guide is about MOT Bicester test and preparation. In this blog, we will provide essential information on MOT and we will guide you to submit your car confidently.

Let us start!

What is the MOT test?

MOT or the Ministry of Transport is a mandatory test for car drivers. Now, all car drivers need to have this test. This test is necessary for those car drivers who have over three years old vehicles. A new car is usually safe for roads. Therefore, this test starts from the third anniversary of vehicles.

You get a certificate if your car passes its test. This certificate is valid for one year. Next year, you need to have the test again to get a new certificate.

You may also fail the MOT test if your vehicle does not follow the safety standards.

How is MOT different from car service?

Car service is a routine checkup that is carried out with the guidelines of car manufacturers. This is a more thorough checkup and covers varied aspects, such as safety, comfort, performance and mechanical condition.

On the other hand, MOT test is carried out by DVSA every year. The main aim of this test is checking the safety level of a vehicle. So, this test concentrates only on safety aspects of a vehicle.

Mechanics have a clear aim to improve the condition of your vehicle during a car service. On the other hand, a MOT professional just assesses a vehicle for its mechanical condition. They declare final results after the assessment and have no intention to improve your car’s condition.

Legal importance of the MOT certificate

MOT is a legal test and the MOT certificate is a legal document. You cannot drive your car on public roads without a valid certificate. You have to note that this certificate is valid for only one year. After this time limit, you need a new certificate. So, you will be treated as without no certificate if you have an invalid certificate.

How to get the certificate for the first time?

If you are a new car driver and your car has completed three years in your service, you need a valid MOT certificate. You need to register to a nearby MOT center to get the certificate. You must reach the center on the assigned date for complete safety checkup. You will get an MOT pass certificate if your car has not mechanical defects and it is following safety standards.

What is checked during the MOT test?

During the MOT test, the MOT technicians will check your vehicle for safety issues. DVSA has made a list of components that are checked during a test. These components include seats & seatbelts, horn, bodywork, suspension, tyres, transmission, exhaust, doors & and windows, and number plate.

Types of defects in vehicles

According to the categorization of MOT centers, your car may have minor, major, and dangerous defects.

The MOT professionals will allow you to drive your car if it has minor faults. They may provide an advisory with the certificate that says you must keep an eye on the minor defects. Your car will fail its test due to major or dangerous defects.

How to handle failure in the test?

You do not need to worry if you do not get your certificate due to mechanical defects. They will allow you to repair your vehicle in their garage. Moreover, you can choose another garage if you hope to get a better deal. However, you cannot drive your car in the case of dangerous defects in your vehicle. In this condition, you can tow your vehicle to reach the garage.

You can have a retest if you repair your car within 10 working days. After 10 days, you need to have a full test again.

How to get the certificate successfully?

You can get the MOT certificate easily if you maintain your car according to the guidelines of the carmakers. Every driver gets a user manual with their vehicle. This document contains proper information about car servicing and maintenance. You have to follow the guidelines to maintain your car well.

You can perform several easy tasks to maintain your car. For example, checking your tyres for visible issues and air pressure is not a tough task. Moreover, you can improve your driving habits to keep your car comfortable on roads as well.

Deep aspects of car servicing are not easy and only a trained mechanic can perform those tough tasks. Therefore, visit a car service center before the test and let your mechanic check your car thoroughly. After that, you can enter the MOT center confidently to get your certificate. Car servicing before the MOT test is a good idea to get success in the test.