What is an MOT test and what is checked
Learn more about what an MOT test is, how it is done, when it is due, and what an MOT certificate contains. You can also book an MOT with Volvo here.
An MOT (Ministry of Transport) test is an annual test, carried out by a certified testing station, of a vehicle's safety, roadworthiness, and exhaust emissions standards.
It’s a requirement for cars at three years old to undergo the test, and it aims to help ensure that the car meets the minimum safety and environmental standards required by law.
Where can I book my MOT?
You can book your car for its annual MOT via our website. Begin with filling in your personal information, registration number etc. In the fourth step, you can select that you want to book an MOT test and choose a retailer near you.
Finally, remember that even if your car passes the MOT test, it must undergo regular servicing to maintain its performance for as long as possible. If you are a Volvo owner, visiting a Volvo workshop is recommended to ensure that a Volvo expert takes care of your car, only using Volvo Genuine Parts .
What happens if I don't pass an MOT test?
If you don’t pass your MOT test, try to get your vehicle fixed as soon as possible. Once your car is fixed, you can request a re-test within ten working days and only pay a small fee. Sometimes the testing station will even offer the re-test for free. However, if you fail to get your vehicle re-tested within ten days, you will have to do a complete MOT test again, meaning that you will get charged a full fee again.
Until your vehicle passes its MOT, you won’t be able to drive it legally. It’s also worth noting that if you fail your MOT due to a major fault, such as brakes or steering not working correctly, you won’t be allowed to drive away from the testing centre either.
If you fail your MOT, speak to the garage that tested your vehicle – they should be able to advise you on what needs to be done for you to pass your next MOT.
What is checked on an MOT?
The list of items checked during an MOT varies depending on the type of vehicle being tested and its age. Generally speaking, there are a variety of elements which are inspected during an MOT, including:
- Exterior components such as lights, mirrors and wipers
- Steering system
- Suspension system
- Brakes
- Horn
- Wheels and tyres
- Exhaust emissions
- Seatbelts and seatbelt anchors
When booking an MOT, you can ask your garage which items will be checked on your vehicle.
When is my MOT due?
Your vehicle must have its first full annual inspection (MOT) three years after its registration date (which can be found on its V5C registration document).
After this initial inspection, all subsequent tests must occur at least annually for your car to remain legally roadworthy.
You can sign up for free reminders from the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) when your next inspection is due, but it’s always worth double-checking this, just in case.
How often do I need to do an MOT test?
By the third anniversary of its registration, all cars must have an annual full inspection (MOT). This means that every year after this initial three-year period has passed, you must take your car for an annual MOT before being allowed back onto public roads again.
