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10
Point Checklist to Help Your Car Pass Its MOT
By James
Todman
Every
year the motorist is faced with the ordeal of the MOT test, unless
their car is less than three years old. The purpose of an MOT
is to ensure the vehicle complies with road safety and environmental
standards. Without it car owners are unable to obtain a tax disc
for driving on public roads.
But
what does the MOT tester look out for? Is it car tyres or fuel
emissions? It can become expensive when the vehicle fails and
needs to be re-tested. To help achieve a first time pass, this
10 point checklist highlights the main components that are included
in an MOT test:
1.
Brakes
The
car's brakes are tested on a 'roller brake tester' to assess their
condition, performance and efficiency. Brakes that 'lock up' when
applied will fail. Other areas to watch out for are loose brake
pedals and signs of leaking brake fluid.
2.
Doors and Mirrors
Ensure
the doors open and close correctly, from the inside and the outside
of the vehicle. Car locks need to work adequately. Wing and rear
view mirrors must be present and in good condition. A cracked
wing mirror will result in a fail.
3.
Exhaust System and Emissions
The
car will need to pass specific exhaust emission requirements,
depending on its age and fuel type. The exhaust system must not
have holes or leaks, often caused by rust.
4.
Car Bodywork
Excessive
rust corrosion, damage or sharp edges on the car's bodywork will
result in a fail.
5.
Wheels and Car Tyres
The
tread depth on a car tyre must be a minimum of 1.6mm. The car
tyre needs to be the correct type for the vehicle and have no
signs of excessive wear or damage. It is recommended to consult
a car tyres specialist to check this. Ensure all the wheel nuts
are present as any missing will result in a fail. Spare tyres
are not tested.
6.
Windscreen, Wipers and Washer
The
wiper blades need to be in good condition and the windscreen washer
must contain fluid. The windscreen cannot have any large cracks
and must have clear visibility.
7.
Lights and Indicators
All
lights and indicators need to work correctly, including the hazard
lights. Check that the headlamps dip to the correct angle and
are not loose.
8.
Seats and seatbelts
Ensure
all seats are secure in the upright position. It is compulsory
for seatbelts to be fitted in the front and back of a car. They
must be the correct type and in good, working condition.
9.
Steering, suspension and horn
All
three need to be in good condition and work correctly. Make sure
the horn is the right type for the vehicle. Ensure the wheels
are correctly aligned and the car tyre pressures are correct,
as these can affect the vehicle's steering.
10.
Registration Plate and Vehicle Identification Number
The
registration plate needs to be in the correct format, legible
and in good condition. Every car used after the 1st August 1980
must have its vehicle identification number clearly displayed.
Lights,
brakes, suspension and car tyres are the four most common reasons
why a car will fail its MOT. This checklist is intended as a guide
to improve your cars chance of passing. If in any doubt we recommend
consulting your local garage before taking the MOT test.
James
Todman is a freelance web
content editor working with Merityre, a leading UK independent
car tyres
retailer.
Article
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