Excel Vehicle Sales
MOT

It's always important to have a good local MOT garage, so if you live or work in Morecambe, why not book your next MOT test at Excel Vehicle Sales, Based at Northgate Trade Centre on the White Lund Industrial Estate, we provide MOT testing for cars and also vans up to Class 7.

Why you need an MOT Test

For all vehicles three years old or more it is a legal requirement that your vehicle has a valid MOT if you wish to continue to drive it on the road. The MOT test ensures that your car, 4x4 or van can meet minimum requirements in terms of environmental standards and road safety.

Should you fail to take your vehicle for its MOT every year then you will face a fixed penalty if you are caught using it on the road once your certificate runs out.

Dependent on the type of vehicle you drive there are two choices of MOT either a Class 4 or Class 7 MOT Test. A Class 4 MOT is the most common one and the MOT required on all passenger cars, whilst a class 7 MOT is usually carried out on commercial goods vehicles that carry between 3,000 kg and 3,500 kg in weight.

What is an MOT Test?

MOT stands for Ministry of Transport and is a test devised by the DVSA and ministry to test your car every year. This test is designed to look at your vehicle from a safety point of view. The aim is to check cars yearly for wear and tear items that can make your vehicle hazardous to other road users. To provide such a test, a mechanic needs to complete separate qualifications. These help the mechanic understand what to test, what is allowed and what will cause your vehicle to fail.

What is looked at on an MOT Test?

To determine if your car passes or fails an MOT a large number of items will be tested. We have compiled a brief list of what is tested and why. This will help you understand precisely why this test has now become law for all vehicles in the UK.

The mechanic will typically work through a standard checklist that includes your:

  • Vehicle identification number (VIN)
    MOT tests will check the Vehicle Identification Number or VIN is visibly displayed on the vehicle. The VIN is essentially a unique serial number that's stamped into the inside of the vehicle.
  • Registration plate
    The mechanic running through the MOT will check the registration plate to make sure it meets currents regulations. This includes the spacing and lettering but also the condition and stability of the license plate.
  • Lights
    The MOT will run through a set list of checks including the colour, condition, safety and aim of your car lights.
  • Steering and suspension
    The person conducting the MOT will check that the steering and suspension is operating normally and that both are in good condition.
  • Wipers and washers
    The MOT tester also checks that the wipers and washers give the driver a clear view through the windscreen.
  • Windscreen
    The tester will check to make sure the windscreen is free of any damage such as cracks or chips. If the damage exceeds 10mm within the driver's line of site this will be considered dangerous and will have to be changed.
  • Horn
    During the MOT, the tester will check that the horn is functioning normally.
  • Seat belts and seats
    The MOT will check the condition of the vehicle’s front seats for their safety. The seatbelts are also checked over for their condition and safety.
  • Doors
    The tester will check the functionality of the doors to make sure they open and close correctly and are secure when closed.
  • Mirrors
    The vehicle's wing mirrors will be checked during the test to see if they’re in good, working condition.
  • Wheels and tyres
    The condition of wheels and tyres are a hot topic at the moment in terms of public awareness. They'll be checked for condition and security but also tread depth to make sure they’re not too worn to the point of being dangerous. The Class 7 MOT includes an additional check of the tyres to ensure they are suitable for the extra weight, as well as a brake efficiency test.
  • Brakes
    The MOT tester will check the condition of the brakes to make sure they're functioning normally and safely. Additionally, braking efficiency is calculated differently for Class 7 vehicles.
  • Fuel system
    During an MOT test, the fuel system will be checked for leaks to make sure it's functioning properly.
  • Exhaust system
    The condition of the exhaust will be checked for leaks that may be considered not safe.
  • Vehicle emissions
    The MOT tester will check that the vehicle's emissions fall within safety guidelines.

Where Can I Find More Info on MOT Testing

The Ministry of Transport has their own blog. All the information needed for your car and its test can be found here. You will also find some useful hints and tips for all car owners. To see the latest on the up to date MOT rules for 2018, follow this link.

Call Excel in Morecambe, today to Book Your MOT Test