Pass your MOT test first time
We reveal how to get a half-price MOT and pass first time in our complete guide.
What’s an MOT test?
An MOT test is a series of checks which ensures a car is roadworthy.
Cars older than three years will have to undergo an MOT – Ministry of Transport test – each year.
Motorists are given an updated MOT certificate if their car passes the test, or may need to pay for repairs if it fails. It’s a legal requirement to have an up-to-date certificate.
What’s checked at an MOT?
• Steering and suspension
• Lights and mirrors
• Number plate and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
• Windscreen, wipers and washers
• Seats and seatbelts
• Fuel and exhaust system, including emissions
• Doors and vehicle structure
• Wheels, tyres and brakes
• Horn
• The bonnet catch
How can I pass first time?
If your car fails its MOT it will need extra work.
Save money on repair bills by checking your car before booking it in for an MOT.
1. Check your tyre pressure and tread depth, wheels and brakes.
2. Test the handbrake by pulling it on and trying to drive off gently. If it fails to hold the car back, it will need attention.
3. Turn the steering wheel from one lock to the other – it should be smooth. There should be no screeching, banging or knocking.
4. Check all lights work and mirrors are visible.
5. Ensure your number plate and VIN match the numbers in the V5C document.
6. Test the doors, seats and seatbelts are operating correctly, and are properly fixed.
7. Check the windscreen is completely clear and free of cracks. Fill up your washer level and make sure the wipers work.
8. Open your bonnet – it should open and close normally, without getting stuck.
9. Test the horn.
10. Check the vehicle chassis for any major dents, cracks or bulges.
View our bonnet check slide show:
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How do I book an MOT test?
Contact an approved garage and book online or over the phone.
Approved MOT garages will display the following logo:
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When should I book a test?
You can book an MOT anytime. If your car is tested earlier than one month before its due date, the MOT will run for twelve months from that point.
It’s a good idea to book a test almost one month before its due date. If your current certificate expires on March 1, 2009 and you book a test for February 2, the certificate will run until March 1, 2010.
New cars need one test when they are three years old – and one test each year thereafter.
Extensively modified or adapted cars may need a Single Vehicle Approval test (SVA) instead of an MOT. View Directgov’s SVA page to find your local test station.
How much does it cost?
A standard MOT test currently costs £54.
Can I get a discount?
Auto Trader has teamed up with Nationwide Autocentres to get your next MOT for half-price – bringing £54 down to just £27.
All you need to do is:
1. Visit the online MOT Centre
2. Print off the voucher
3. Book an MOT online
Present the voucher at the MOT station and you’ll receive the discount.
Nationwide Autocentres is the only chain of AA-approved garages with more than 200 MOT centres across the UK. They have more ATA-trained mechanics than anywhere else and offer a 12-month or 12,000 miles guarantee on all work.
What if I lose my certificate?
You can request a duplicate from any MOT testing station. You’ll need:
• The vehicle registration number
• The original MOT test number, or the V5C document reference number
• To pay £10 for a replacement
How else can I save money on an MOT?
Look for garages which don't carry out repairs - they're more likely to carry out an MOT without charging additional fees for servicing.
MOT testing stations for council vehicles such as buses and ambulances are a good example of this, which are also open to the public.
However if your car fails its MOT it may be liable for a re-test fee and you won't get a discount on the MOT itself.
Video: Check your oil
Watch this footage to find out how to check your oil before an MOT:
Disclaimer: The MOT certificate is not a guarantee of the general mechanical condition of a vehicle.
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