37 million MOT tests were conducted in 2024 in the UK! A test that holds such importance requires the knowledge of all details. If you are a first-time tester, it is natural to be overwhelmed. The test with all its processes and inspections could seem challenging. But, with the right guidance, your vehicle could easily ace it. However, before knowing what you need to prepare, there are some basics you should be familiar with. Aspects like understanding the test, the different classes, and how it benefits you is important too. For beginners, this article covers all these aspects and much more! By the end of this guide, you will be more confident in going through the MOT test Leicester, and even acing it!
So, what is the MOT test?
A highly important test for your car, the MOT is a short form of Ministry of Transport. This is the department within the UK government that introduced this test. The test is standard for testing vehicle safety, exhaust emissions and roadworthiness. This car safety test is highly crucial for all vehicles in the UK, without which you will be likely breaking the law and can be punished.
The status of your vehicle regarding the MOT is reported on the MOT certificate. This certificate is usually of two types. A ‘Pass’ certificate, which you get when your vehicle passes the MOT. This certificate claims that your vehicle has exceeded the standards of safety and emissions, making it roadworthy. This certificate is valid for the next 12 months, after which you will be required to get your vehicle tested again.
Now, your vehicle might fail the test too. This might be due to many reasons, which are classified as ‘Minor’, ‘Major’, or ‘Dangerous’. Depending on the extent of damage, your vehicle could get an ‘advisory’ for the required repairs and a fail certificate. If your vehicle fails the MOT, it needs to be retested within the next 10 days. The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency, also called DVSA, issues every certificate related to your car’s MOT.
Which vehicles require an MOT test?
In the UK, almost every vehicle requires an MOT. So, you need to go for your MOT Leicester if:
Your vehicle is more than 3 years old. According to the standards, a vehicle stays roadworthy until 3 years. After that, it needs testing for safety standards and regular services.
Your previous test was 1 year back. An MOT certificate will only last for one year. So, the test has to be conducted annually.
Your vehicle belongs to any of the 7 ‘classes’. For better testing, the vehicles have been categorised into 6 classes. Depending on the type of your vehicle, the testing will be done accordingly.
There are some vehicles that are exempt from the testing too. These include the following:
Cars under 3 years of age are exempt from testing.
Cars that have an age of 40 years or above are also exempted. These should be in roadworthy conditions. Plus they should not have gone through substantial changes in the body, axle, engine, chassis, etc.
Lorries, buses, trailers, and some other large vehicles are exempted. But, they require an ‘annual vehicle test’.
Tractors and goods vehicles that run on electricity also fall under the MOT exempt category.
How to determine the MOT class for your vehicle?
The DVSA has classified every vehicle into different classes. To know about your vehicle’s class, follow the list below:
Class 1 and class 2: These classes include motorcycles.
Class 3: This class comprises three-wheelers weighing less than 450 kg, excluding any load.
Class 4: It is designated for vehicles with 9 to 12 passenger seats, including caravans, passenger cars, dual-purpose vehicles, and ambulances. Class 4 MOT Leicester also includes goods vehicles with less than 3000 kg design.
Class 5: Class 5 includes any vehicle with 13 or more passenger seats, including dual-purpose vehicles, ambulances, motor caravans, and private passenger cars.
Class 6: Public Service Vehicles come under this class.
Class 7: Any goods vehicle carrying goods weighing in the range of 3000 to 3500 kg.
Following this list, you can easily know the category your vehicle belongs to. The testing process and certificates might differ according to the vehicle class.
How to know the difference between class 4 or class 7 vehicles?
Motorists are often confused between class 4 and 7 vehicles. The major point of difference between the two classes is their gross weight. This is also known as different terms such as, the maximum laden weight, the maximum authorised mass (MAM) or the gross vehicle weight (GVW). These terms refer to the maximum weight the vehicle’s chassis can hold.
Find out your vehicle’s class using the maximum laden weight, which is usually provided in your vehicle’s manual. A vehicle belonging to class 7 will usually not weigh 3,500 kgs, but its load capacity could be up to 3,500 kgs.
A class 4 MOT Leicester usually includes a comprehensive testing for components such as, steering, lights, exhaust, tyres, wheels, brakes, suspension, signalling equipment and even the general body. A class 4 test ensures your vehicle is following all safety and emissions standards. On the other hand, a class 7 test makes sure the goods-carrying vehicle is safe to carry the extra weight for commercial purposes.
If you have an upcoming MOT and you are first-timer, knowing the basics is crucial. Ace your testing with the right knowledge and ensure a smooth experience ahead.