Preparing for an upcoming MOT test and wondering what’s included?
An MOT involves several checks of your car’s parts, including the brakes, fuel system and lights.
In this helpful guide, we provide a comprehensive overview of all the systems and components that will be checked during the test.
What Is Included in an MOT Test?
The following systems and components will be checked during an MOT test:
- Bodywork, checking for any significant damage, rust or sharp edges that could cause injury
- Bonnet, checking that it closes properly and won't pop open while driving
- Brakes, most notably visually checking the condition of your brake pads, as well as how they work with use of a ramp
- Doors, checking the front doors open from inside and outside, and the rear doors open from the outside
- Electrical components, checking all visible wiring as well as the battery
- Exhaust system and emissions, checking the system is leak-free and the catalytic converter is present
- Fuel system, checking for any leaks in the system
- Horn, checking this is the right type and working properly
- Lights, checking these are working and correctly positioned
- Load security, ensuring that the boot or tailgate closes properly
- Mirrors, checking the security and condition of your mirrors
- Registration plates, checking the condition, colour and attachment
- Seats, ensuring the driver's seat can adjust and all other seats are secure
- Seatbelts, checking these are in good condition and attached securely
- Steering and suspension, checking their condition and function
- Towbars, most notably checking their security and condition
- Tyres, checking their condition, security, size, type, inflation and tread depth
- Vehicle identification number (VIN), certain vehicles' VINs will be checked
- Windscreen, wipers and washers, checking the driver's view of the road and the condition of these parts
- Wheels, checking their security and condition
What Is Not Checked on an MOT?
Though an MOT test is fairly comprehensive, there are a few parts that are not checked during an MOT test:
- The clutch
- The engine
- The gearbox
- Spare wheels and tyres
These components – excluding the engine mountings - are not checked on the MOT test as they are not viewed as safety-critical.
Parts such as the clutch and gearbox are not easy to inspect without disassembly, whilst certain operational checks would require that the car be driven on the road.
Given that some cars won’t have a valid MOT whilst others could pose dangers to other drivers, it makes sense that these parts aren’t checked during the test.
Knowing what is checked during an MOT can significantly increase your chances of passing the test – but it doesn’t guarantee it.
If you’re worried about your car failing an upcoming MOT or want to make sure your vehicle is in good condition for the test, we’ve got you covered.
When you’re ready to make your booking, we’re here to help you find your perfect local test centre – and secure the best deal in the process.
