Everyone who has a car or van on UK roads must keep it in a roadworthy condition and the MOT test checks that all vehicles meet road safety and environmental standards. The first MOT is due once your vehicle is three years old and if you
lease your vehicle then it is your responsibility (and liability) to ensure your vehicle has a valid MOT. This assumes the cars is new from date of first registration and has not been registered before i.e. as with an import car for example.
There are numerous garages (circa 19,000 in the UK) that can perform an MOT check and there is a fixed pricing policy set by VOSA. VOSA is a government agency and supervises the scheme to ensure the following criteria is met.
- - Authorising and making sure that MOT test stations follow the correct procedures and that all MOT testers are approved.
- - Setting the standards for testing and authorisation.
- - Training all the authorised examiners and MOT testers.
- - Making checks and visiting the 19,000 approved MOT test stations across the UK.
- - Giving advice and taking disciplinary action against MOT test stations where the correct standards are not being adhered to.
- - Finally dealing with any appeals and complaints from MOT customers.
When your vehicle is tested the MOT test examiners will check the following important items to ensure they meet the necessary standards.
- 1 - They check the body structure to ensure there is no excessive corrosion or damage in specific areas and that there are no sharp items likely to cause damage.
- 2 - The fuel system is checked to make sure there are no leaks and that the fuel cap fastens properly. If you have a key for your fuel cap make sure you take it with you when your vehicle is tested.
- 3 - The exhaust emissions are checked to see if the emissions meet the requirements for exhaust emission based on the age and fuel type of your vehicle.
- 4 - The actual exhaust is also inspected to make sure it has no leaks and that the silencer is working correctly.
- 5 - All seat belts are checked to make sure they work correctly covering type, condition, operation and security.
- 6 - The front seats are also checked to make sure they are secure and also that the front and rear backseats can be secured in an upright position.
- 7 - All doors are checked and front doors should open from the inside and out.
- 8 - The vehicle mirrors are checked for the correct numbers on the vehicle, their condition and security.
- 9 - The boot and tailgate are inspected so they can be closed properly.
- 10 - All brakes are tested for operation efficiency, condition and performance.
- 11 - The tyres and wheels are inspected for their condition, correct size, correct tyres and also correct tread depth. Your spare tyre is not inspected however.
- 12 - All lights are tested for their condition, operation and security and headlamps are tested for their correct aim.
- 13- The bonnet security latch is checked.
- 14 - All wipers and washers must operate correctly to give a clear view.
- 15 - The windscreen condition will be inspected to ensure the driver has a clear view of the road and that there are no cracks.
- 16 - The horn must operate correctly.
- 17 - All steering and suspension is inspected and tested.
- 18 - All vehicle identification numbers (VIN) are checked if your vehicle is used on or after the 1st August 1980 to ensure there is no more than one VIN displayed (except on multistage vehicles).
- 19 - Vehicle registration plates are also checked to ensure they have the correct colours and font typeface. All vehicles first registered on or after the 1st January 1973 must be white on the front and yellow on the rear with black characters.
A valid MOT test station will display the blue three triangles above and should have designated test bays with a wide range of equipment to carry out the correct MOT checks above.
If your vehicle fails the MOT test you will be given a failure document telling you what works needs to be completed before you can re-apply for your MOT. It is vital that your vehicle has a valid MOT as many insurance company policies will be invalidated and if you have an accident and make a claim they may not pay out.
With
vehicle leasing, most contract terms are set at three years however if you keep your car or van for longer i.e. perhaps on an informal extension while waiting for your new leased car, don't forget you will still need to get the MOT done. If you have opted for a longer contract then just remember it is on the
three year anniversary of the date of registration that you need an MOT (assumes the car is new and not an import with a previous registration date). If you are thinking of
leasing a vehicle the have a look at a selection of
Renault contract hire prices below. All other makes and models are available as well and our prices are compared on the same terms from our
car finance partners. We also offer
van contract hire prices too.
If you want to check if your vehicle has a valid MOT or the MOT history you can also do this at the
direct.gov.uk website through this link.