What to Expect During Your First MOT Test
For new motorists, there are many things that learning and taking your test does not prepare you for. One of the most daunting steps is taking your car for an MOT, which is an essential annual safety test to assess the roadworthiness of your vehicle. By learning what to expect ahead of time, you can reduce stress and feel better prepared. Here is what you can expect with your first MOT test.
What is an MOT?
MOT stands for Ministry of Transport and is a test that will ensure that your car meets the minimum safety and environmental standards in the UK. This test is essential for improving road safety and air quality, and every car must have a valid MOT to be allowed to drive on the road, so you should always book your MOT test ahead of your current certificate expiring – you could face a fine of up to £1,000 if caught driving without a valid MOT.
What to Expect During Your First MOT
First, it is important to find a DSVA-approved MOT test centre. MOTs can only be carried out by certain garages, so you should take the time to find a reputable on in your area. You can book MOT online, which makes it easy to find a time that suits you. However, there has been a backlog since COVID-19, so be sure to book well in advance of your current certificate expiring. The maximum fee you can be charged for an MOT is £54.85. There are a few basic maintenance tasks you can do to get your vehicle in good shape for your test.
On the day of your MOT, you will need to drive your car to the garage. They will then conduct a series of tests on your automobile, including checking the lights, brakes, steering and suspension, tires, and emissions. The amount of time that it takes can vary, but generally, the test takes around 45 minutes, so you can either wait around or come back once they are done.
If your car fails its MOT, there is no need to panic, and it is quite common. You will be issued a ‘Refusal of an MOT Test Certificate,’ which will include the reasons for failure. You will need to get the issues resolved, and the car retested before you will be able to drive it – it is possible to pay less on the second test, and some places will allow a free retest.
Hopefully, the information in this post will help you feel prepared for your first MOT. It is always daunting the first time around, but as an annual test, you will get used to it over time! The key is to make sure that you book your test well in advance and prepare for the financial costs that can be incurred.
