What Classifies a Vehicle to Need a Class 7 MOT Test?

If you drive a commercial or larger vehicle, you may have heard about the Class 7 MOT Test. but what does that mean? An MOT test checks that the car is safe to drive and meets the environmental standards. Every vehicle must pass this test, compulsory for cars older than three years in the UK. This ensures that things like brakes, lights and tyres are working correctly. Especially for regular cars, they come under the MOT test class 4. Some of the vehicles are heavier and are used for different purposes. These vehicles come under class 7, and their test slightly differs from the normal ones. In the following blog, we will explain what makes a car fall into the Class 7 MOT Bristol category. 

Weight of the Vehicle

Weight is the most important factor in deciding if your vehicle needs a Class 7 MOT. If the vehicle's Gross Vehicle Weight (GVW) is between 3,000 kg and 3,500 kg, it falls under this class. The GVW is considered to be the vehicle's overall maximum weight. This includes passengers, fuel and cargo. This weight is usually written on a plate on the driver’s door or under the bonnet. If your van or truck is heavier than your regular car but not heavier than a lorry, then it needs a class 7 MOT. 

Type of Vehicle

Not every heavy vehicle comes in the Class 7 MOT. This must be of the correct type as well. Vehicles usually fall into the large vehicle group. The car is a large van, a pickup truck with double axles. Delivery vans also fall under this category. The medium-sized commercial vehicles are also in this category. These are not as big as lorries or buses. They carry more load than a regular car or a small van. 

Use of the Vehicle

The vehicle's usage also matters. If you use your vehicle for commercial purposes like delivering goods, transporting tools, or carrying equipment, it is a class 7 vehicle. Even if the van is used for business and personal use, it must still meet the weight limit. Vehicles that carry heavy tools are used by tradespeople like builders or electricians. They are in the standard category. 

Axle Count and Build

The Class 7 vehicles often have dual rear wheels and are stronger for suspension systems. They have a feature that helps carry more weight without damage or danger. Some have dual axles at the rear for better balance and safety. This makes them more stable under heavy loads. The overall build of the vehicle is more solid than that of cars. This is another reason they are under a different MOT Bristol category. 

Not Registered as HGV

Once the vehicle weight exceeds 3,500 kg, such vehicles won’t be classified under the class 7 category. This becomes a Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV). They are tested differently and are usually carried. If the vehicle doesn’t lie under that limit, it comes under Class 7. Knowing the GVW and checking the documents or the metal plate in the car is essential. 

Modified Vehicles

If the vehicle is modified or upgraded, it might now fall into the class 7 category even if it didn’t before. If a standard van has been upgraded with a larger engine and firmer suspension, this adds more weight to it. If there is any chance that makes the vehicle stronger, it will come under this category. This added towing feature may increase the weight. Any changes that make the car stronger or allow it to carry more weight in the Class 7 zone. This is something to be aware of, especially if you buy a used vehicle. 

Vehicle’s age 

Like the class 4 MOT test, the class 7 is needed once a year for vehicles over three years old. So even if your van is heavy enough and is used for business, it won't need the test until it reaches that limit. It is recommended to get it tested yearly at the MOT centre that can handle class 7 vehicles. Not all garages are equipped to test heavy vans. Check this before booking the test. 

Concluding Statement

It is important to understand what puts the vehicle in this Class 7 MOT test category if you own or drive a van or pickup used for work. The weight, size and how you use the vehicle play an important role. If you are unsure what the car needs for a Class 7 MOT test. It is essential to check the registration documents or ask your trusted MOT garage. Doing the test correctly will keep up the legality and help you ensure your vehicle is safe. Keeping up with the MOT test is not just the rule, it's about keeping yourself, your passengers and everyone else safe on the road.