MOT Essentials Worth Knowing for Every Car Owner

If the vehicle is more than 3 years old and is not under exemptions, obtaining a MOT certificate is mandatory for every driver. If a vehicle is spotted by the authorities and is found to violate this rule, a fine and other penalties will be imposed on that vehicle. No driver needs this when there are already so many car-related expenses these days. So, it’s better to stay ahead of these regulations and get the certificate as early as possible. Once the certificate is obtained, it does not automatically mean that the car will be in the safe zone until the next MOT is due. That is why maintaining the car through regular servicing is essential. Servicing and MOT then becomes an ongoing process which must not be delayed or taken for granted. This blog highlights the important elements of the MOT and servicing. 

Understanding the Aspects of MOT

Due to rising concerns about dangerous cars on the road, the UK government has decided to introduce a basic check for all vehicles over three years old. The motive of starting this testing was to ensure that only safe vehicles are on the road. Also, environmental concern is another factor taken into account to conduct this test. Many vehicles cause toxic emissions that harm the environment and cause air pollution. Since the MOT has been introduced by the government, many changes have been added to it. The regulations are only becoming stricter with each passing year. The purpose of MOT Test Manchester is to check every vehicle, from motorcycles to big trucks, for its compliance with safety and environmental regulations. These regulations were laid out by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) to prevent drivers from driving dangerous vehicles and save the environment from harmful emissions. 

Various checks are done during the MOT testing, which include checking the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), number plates, steering, lights, seatbelts, fuel system, emissions, brakes, wheels, and tyres. Many of these checks can be done by vehicle owners themselves before taking it to the centre to prevent spending money on repairs. Once the MOT is completed, based on the results, the car owner receives a pass or fail certificate. 

Is It Practical to Book MOT and Car Servicing Together?

Various service centres in the UK provide attractive deals and discounts on the booking of car servicing and MOTs as a bunch. Even the mechanics advise customers to book these together to save money. Also, having a car serviced before taking the MOT test increases the chances of passing the test. Keeping a car well-maintained has various benefits, and one of them is passing the test on the first attempt. It is because during a car service, a car is thoroughly checked and repaired to eliminate the risks of sudden breakdowns. The components or checks include oil replacement, brakes, electrical system, air conditioning, tyres, suspension, wheel alignment, steering, seatbelts, emissions, lights, fluids, exhaust, windscreen, and engine filters, etc. The servicing is divided into three kinds that are done at different intervals and according to mileage and specific car requirements. These services are Interim, Full, and Major. Depending on the requirement, a driver can choose a car service Manchester that suits their needs best. Each service consists of different checks and replacements. Once the car is fully repaired through regular servicing, passing the MOT test becomes a cakewalk. Then, the driver does not need to spend extra money on getting repairs for the car if it fails the test. So, it is a smart and practical decision to book these together. 

How to Check MOT Status Online?

There are lots of websites where car owners or buyers can check the MOT status. Checking the status is necessary when a driver lost their certificate and needs to book the next MOT. In other cases, before buying a car, checking the car’s MOT is important to ensure safety. It is free to check the online MOT status, and it helps make important decisions concerning the car. These online services also help to keep up a schedule for getting the MOT test done to avoid legal repercussions and ensure safety on the road. To check the status, the registration number or the number plate details are required. Apart from the third-party websites, the government or DVSA website can also be used to check the status.

Conclusion

Following the rules and regulations as laid out by the government for everyone’s safety is not only essential but also smart to avoid unnecessary penalties. To ensure the safety, performance, and durability of the car, routine maintenance and MOT are important. It not only keeps you safe and sound, but also protects the environment and prevents penalties on your license. The best way to ensure comfortable and smooth driving is to avoid negligence towards the car and attend to the responsibility of maintaining it. Timely bookings, repairs, and MOT before expiration will then keep the car compliant with the regulations and save money in the long run. With online services now in place, the process has become much easier.