About the MOT Test ....

Everyone who uses a vehicle on the road is required to keep it in a roadworthy condition.

The purpose of the MOT Test is to ensure that cars, other light vehicles (including some light goods vehicles), private buses and motorcycles over a prescribed age are checked at least once a year to see that they comply with key roadworthiness and environmental requirements.

When your car is tested, the MOT looks at some important items to see if it meets the legal requirements. The MOT certificate is not a guarantee of the general mechanical condition of a vehicle.

What will be checked during the MOT Test ?

Vehicle Identification Number

Not more than one different identification number should be present on a vehicle first used on or after 1 August 1980. However, the same number may be displayed in more than one place.

Registration Plate

• Condition
• Security
• legibility
• Format of letters / numbers.

Lights

• Condition
• Operation
• Security
• Correct Colour

The headlamps will also be checked to see if the aim is correct.

Steering and Suspension

Correct condition and operation.

Wipers / Washers

Operate to give the driver a clear view of the road.

Windscreen

Condition and drivers view of the road.

Horn

Correct operation and type.

Seatbelts

All seatbelts installed are checked for type, condition, operation

and security. All compulsory seatbelts must be in place.

Seats

Front seats secure. Front and rear backseats can be secured in the upright position.

Fuel System

• No leaks
• Fuel cap fastens correctly
• Fuel cap seals securely

The fuel cap will need to be opened. Make sure the key is available.

Exhaust Emissions

Vehicle meets the requirement for exhaust emission. These vary on the age and fuel type of the vehicle.

Exhaust System

• Complete
• Secure
• Check for serious leaks
• Silences effectively

Vehicle Structure

Free from excessive corrosion or damage in specific areas. No sharp edges.

Doors

• Open and close.
• Latch securely in closed position.
• Front doors should open from inside and outside the vehicle

Rear doors may need to be opened to gain access to testable items.

Mirrors

• Presence
• Condition
• Security

Wheels and Tyres

• Condition
• Security
• Tyre size / type
• Tread depth

Spare tyres are not inspected.

Brakes

• Condition
• Operation
• Performance (efficiency test)

Wheels are not removed during the test. The tester only examined what they can see, reach or feel.

Please note that MOTs are carried out by Ringmer Service Centre