A Guide For Your First MOT Test

If you are a new car owner and it’s time for your very first MOT test ever, it can be a little overwhelming for you. You might have had your share of knowledge from people around you, but the first-hand experience is always different. For that, understand what MOT Holmes Chapel is better, how it’s done, what could be the possible issues, where you can go wrong, and more things like that.

To help you navigate through your first MOT smoothly, we have this guide for you with an attempt to help first-timers in their MOT experience. 

We will try to cover some most common questions people have about the first MOT test. 

What is an MOT Test? 

If you live in the UK with a vehicle that’s more than three years old, MOT is like a yearly legal requirement for those vehicles to check their roadworthiness and environment friendliness. This test involves checking various vehicle parts to make sure it’s in a good condition to drive that’s safe for all. Once you pass the test, you get an MOT certificate that’s proof that your vehicle has undergone the test and it’s good to go. 

When Is The Time For Your First MOT? 

As mentioned earlier, if your vehicle is more than three years old, it’s the right time to get your MOT done. Before that, there’s no need to get the MOT test done. But after that third year, you will always have to get an MOT certificate every year. A pro tip would be to book the MOT before the expiry to avoid any kind of legal issues. 

How Much Time Does it Take to Get the MOT Test Done? 

As a beginner, you would want to know how much time it takes to get the MOT test done. Well, it typically takes around an hour to get the MOT test done. If your vehicle passes the test, you will get a certificate there and then. In case it fails, you will have to get all the issues fixed that resulted in that failed MOT. Once that’s done, get your car for another MOT and wait for the result. 

What All Is Checked During the MOT Test? 

Here’s a list of all the things that get checked during the MOT test. For better preparation, you can check this checklist beforehand and make sure you are all set for the test. 

• Headlights
• Break lights
• Indicators
• Hazard light
• Brakes
• Tires
• Windscreen
• Exhaust
• Emissions
• Seatbelts
• Horn
• Steering
• Suspension

These are just the major things we have covered here. There are more parts you should be informed of. Get firsthand information for better knowledge. 

What Happens When the Car Fails the MOT Test? 

If you get a “failed” certificate, there’s no reason to panic. You will receive a failed certificate with reasons cited as to why the car failed the test. There are two main reasons:

Major Reasons: There are some serious issues with the car that led to a failed MOT. If the reasons are major, you won’t be allowed to drive the car any further until the issues are fixed.
Minor Reasons: Next there are minor reasons. During this failure, you can still continue to drive the car but you must get those issues resolved. 

In both cases, you get enough time to resolve all the issues. 

Things to Know About MOT Retest

In case of MOT restest, keep the rule of 10 days in mind. Many garages might offer 10 days free retest if you come back after 10 days. Beyond that, there could be charges. So, keep this in mind. 

Are There Any Penalties Of Driving Without an MOT? 

In the UK, driving without a current MOT certificate is illegal. If you get caught without driving a MOT, you can be fined up to £1,000. Also, your insurance can be canceled if you have an accident and don't have a current MOT. 

Some Common Myths Debunked About MOT? 

Here are some common myths debunked about the MOT Test:

• An MOT check covers all the parts in your car. Well, that’s not true. 
• You cannot drive at all with a failed MOT. You can if they are minors. 

So, as a first-timer, you can have many questions in mind, but you should be well-informed to navigate through all of those with ease for better peace of mind. No more stressing over your first MOT. Be a little prepared in advance and you are all good to go for MOT in Holmes Chapel. It’s not just a test but it’s for your own safety too. Getting the MOT done also means your vehicle is in the best condition to drive that’s connected with your safety too. Get the MOT done on time.