The manufacture of cars along with the level of car ownership in the population as a whole has changed massively. This immense change, especially in UK has given rise to some questions, such as how early can I take my vehicle for an MOT and whether is it necessary to have an MOT test done on electric cars?

MOT stands for Ministry of Transport test, and it is an annual test that is required by law in the United Kingdom for all vehicles that are more than three years old to ensure the vehicle is road-worthy. The MOT tests ensures that vehicles meet the minimum safety and environmental standards set by the government.

It includes a comprehensive inspection of various components of the vehicle, such as brakes, lights, tires, exhaust emissions, and more. It doesn’t cover the condition of the engine, clutch and gearbox. If a vehicle fails the MOT test, necessary repairs must be made before it can be considered roadworthy and legally driven on UK roads.

Mechanic is Running an Interactive Diagnostics Software on an Advanced Computer.
Modern cars require Diagnostics Software checks

What is covered in an MOT?

The following areas are covered in an MOT (Ministry of Transport) test annual inspection:

1. Vehicle Identification: The registration number, Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), and engine number are checked to ensure they match the documentation.

2. Lights: All lights on the vehicle, including headlights, indicators, brake lights, and fog lights, are checked for proper functioning.

3. Steering and Suspension: The steering system, including the condition and operation of the steering wheel, is examined. The suspension components are also inspected for wear and damage.

4. Brakes: The effectiveness and condition of the braking system, including brake pads, discs, drums, and brake fluid, are checked.

5. Tires and Wheels: The condition and tread depth of the tires, as well as the wheels and their alignment, are examined.

6. Seatbelts: The seatbelts and their mountings are inspected for proper functioning and security.

7. Windscreen, Wipers, and Mirrors: The condition of the windscreen, wipers, and mirrors, including visibility and potential obstructions, is checked.

8. Exhaust and Emissions: The exhaust system is examined for leaks, excessive noise, and compliance with emissions standards.

9. Fuel System: The fuel system, including the fuel cap, is inspected for leaks and security.

10. Bodywork: The vehicle’s bodywork, including doors, bonnet, and boot, is checked for structural integrity and corrosion.

11. Vehicle Interior: The condition and operation of the driver’s seat, seat adjustments, and safety-related components like airbags and dashboard warning lights are examined.

It is important to note that an MOT test does not cover the mechanical condition of the engine, clutch, or gearbox. It primarily focuses on the safety and environmental aspects of the vehicle.

How Early Can I Take My MOT Test?

In general, you can take your vehicle for MOT testing up to one month (minus a day) before the current certificate expires. For example, if your MOT certificate expires on 15th July, you can have the test carried out as early as 16th June. Taking the MOT test early allows you to maintain continuous certification while ensuring your vehicle meets the necessary standards.

However, if you renew your MOT more than one calendar month before the new test date, the test will be valid for 12 months from that date on. For example, if your certificate expires on the 15th July of the current year, but you had the new MOT test early on the 16thJune of the current year then your new certificate would be valid until 15th June of the next year.

So, if you are in a rush and your MOT is due soon. We concede that time is money! So, Elite Direct makes sure that when you book Same Day MOT, there’s no waiting around and you can get your MOT done as soon as you like.

electric car charging in the uk
Electric cars also have to be roadworthy

Do Electric Cars Need MOTs?

The short answer here is yes, electric cars do require yearly MOTs after their third birthday. The MOT test is all about ensuring that cars on the UK’s busy road network are all in roadworthy condition and unlikely to cause accidents and electric cars are part of that process.

However, while most features of the MOT will be the same – tyres, brakes, lights, etc. There are some important differences in the test for electric cars, for example, more emphasis is placed on checking the battery of an electric car as that is the powerhouse behind the car’s movement, and the lack of an emissions test – lacking an exhaust system such as ignition engines have, electric cars exude no discernible emissions.

In summary, the MOT test is an essential requirement for most vehicles in the UK, including electric cars. While the timing of the MOT test allows some flexibility, it is generally advisable to take the test within one month of the previous certificate’s expiry. Electric cars, despite their unique characteristics, require an MOT to ensure safety and compliance with the necessary standards.

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Holly MacDonald
Holly studied Digital Journalism at University of Strathclyde. A single mum, her young son Thomas battles for adulation with her love of wine and chocolate, and the very occasional guilt-driven Gym appearance. Other than writing, Holly has a love for making jewellery, thanks to her beloved grandmother.