HomeNews April 2022 We’re breaking down MOT’s, so that your car doesn’t.

We’re breaking down MOT’s, so that your car doesn’t.


29 April 2022

We’re breaking down MOT’s, so that your car doesn’t. Essential for vehicles over 3 years old, MOTs are there to make sure that your safety is uncompromised when driving your vehicle.
 
Do you know when your MOT is due? If you purchased your car from TC Harrison Ford, we’ll be happy to let you know when this expires and send you a reminder closer to the time.  You can also check online using the DVLA's Official Website.
 

WHEN DO I NEED AN MOT? 

Vehicle MOTs are required by law, to be performed 3 years after its initial registration and annually thereafter.
 
If your MOT expires, you must not drive the vehicle. The only exceptions to this rule are:
  • You will be allowed to drive your vehicle to the test centre for a pre-arranged MOT
  • For repairs.
     
If you are found to be driving without a valid MOT certificate, you are breaking the law, alongside risking your life, and the safety of other road users there is the potential of receiving a fine of up to £1000.
 

WHAT HAPPENS DURING AN MOT?

During your MOT, all aspects of your vehicle will be checked to make sure that your safety is uncompromised whilst using the vehicle. This includes an inspection of your tyres, brakes, steering and lights, as well as the main body's structural integrity.
 

ARE MOTS AND SERVICES THE SAME THING?

No. MOTs only test the safety of your car, there isn't any maintenance work performed on it during this annual check.  However, your vehicle may also require a service. The service includes the inspection and maintenance of engine oil, oil filter, lights, tyres, bodywork, exhausts, brakes, steering, fluid and coolant levels, suspension and 12V battery. Most of our customers now have their Servicing and MOT’s carried out at the same time for convenience.
 
View servicing offers
 

HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE?

MOT’s usually take up to an hour to complete, however it is always best to check with the service department that you are taking it to, as pick-up times will depend on when they are able to undertake the MOT on your vehicle.  It is important to note that if the vehicle fails the MOT test, but your previous certificate is still valid then you will still be able to drive it home under the protection of the last certificate you received.

However, you will not be allowed to drive your car away from the test centre if it is deemed to have 'dangerous' problems. Dangerous problems can be issues such as having no functioning brake lights or tyres with tread depth below the legal levels.  If you continue to drive your vehicle with MOT failures deeming it to be unsafe, you could receive a hefty fine, so it’s best to have these repairs carried out on the same day if possible.
 
Save yourself the trouble and book your MOT with TCH Ford today.