Get the Facts — What Does an MOT Test Include?

Are you unsure about what an MOT test includes? When you own a car in the UK, it’s important to understand the basics of MOT testing. In this blog article, we answer the questions — what does an MOT test include, is MOTing a car the same as servicing? We also explain the difference between MOT'd cars and car full servicing and provide tips on how to find the best MOT or car full servicing garages.

What Does an MOT Test Include?
The MOT test is an annual test of vehicles to ensure they meet the minimum legal road safety and environmental standards. It is a legal requirement for all vehicles over three years old. The MOT test includes a visual inspection of the car’s exterior and interior, a check of brakes and tyres, and a test of the car’s engine and its emissions, etc.

The MOT is a basic test and does not cover the full range of services that a full service would. For example, an MOT test does not include an oil change, a top-up of the coolant level, or a change of other fluids and filters.

The MOT test does, however, include a check of the car’s exhaust system, its steering and suspension, its brakes and tyres, its lights, and its windscreen wipers. The test also includes a check of the car’s seatbelts, its horn, and its mirrors. The exhaust system is tested for leaks, while the brakes are tested for effectiveness.

If any of the items on the MOT checklist fail, the car will not pass the test. The driver will then have to take the car to a garage and have the necessary repairs done before the MOT can be re-taken. The price of the MOT test does not include any repairs.

Is MOTing a Car the Same as Servicing?

No, MOTing a car and servicing a car are not the same. The MOT test is designed to check that a car meets the basic legal requirements for road safety and environmental performance. It does not include all of the checks and maintenance that a full service would.

The main difference between MOT and servicing is that the MOT is a legal requirement for all vehicles over three years old and is designed to check that a car meets the basic legal requirements for road safety and environmental performance. A full service is designed to keep a car running smoothly and is not a legal requirement.

Remember, MOT test does not include a service. the MOT test is a legal requirement to make sure that your vehicle is safe while a service ensures that your car runs smoothly and prolongs its life span.

Pre MOT Valet & Servicing

It is a good idea to have a pre MOT valet and servicing before taking the car for its MOT test.
The pre MOT valet and servicing ensures that the car is clean and in good condition before taking it for its MOT test.

The Difference Between MOT'd Cars & Car Full Servicing

The MOT test includes a visual inspection of the car’s exterior and interior, a check of brakes and tyres, and a test of the car’s engine and its emissions. It does not include all of the checks and maintenance that a full service would. A full service typically includes an oil change, a check of the coolant level, a check of the brake fluid levels, and a check of all other fluids. It also includes a check of the car’s suspension, steering, brakes, and tyres.

How to Find the Best MOT or Car Full Servicing Garages

Finding the best MOT or car full servicing garages can be a tricky task. It is important to do research and read reviews before choosing a garage.

Many MOT centres also offer servicing so feel free to use the postcode search at the top of this page to find some nearby garages and get in touch with them.