If your car is more than 3 years old, it must be tested annually to ensure that it is roadworthy. This annual MOT test can only be carried out by approved test centres, and prior to booking your car in for its MOT test, you are advised to have a mechanic inspect the vehicle. A pre-MOT inspection would cover the following:
- Lights – Headlights, side lights, rear lights, indicators, reversing and brake lights should all be functioning properly, and any bulbs that have failed should be replaced.
- Steering – Prior to having the MOT in Sandhurst, your car’s steering should be checked for excessive play. The power steering fluid levels should be topped up and all joints visually inspected.
- Brakes – Your car’s braking system should be inspected, and any pads that are worn should be replaced. The handbrake will also be checked for correct tension.
- Tyres – All tyres (including the spare) should have a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm, plus the sidewalls should be inspected for bulges and tears. The tyres also need to be inflated to the correct pressure, which would be written in the owner’s manual.
- Seatbelts – The seatbelts should work properly and the webbing should not be damaged in any way.
- Windscreen – The windscreen should be free from cracks and chips, plus the wiper blades should be in good condition and there should be water in the washer bottle.
- Bodywork Inspection – The bodywork should be inspected for signs of rust, and any sharp edges that might be regarded as a danger to pedestrians.
Once the mechanic has inspected your car and did not find anything wrong, you can book the MOT test, confident that the car will pass with flying colours.