How long does an MOT take?

What is an MOT test? 

MOT stands for Ministry of Transport, which was the government department responsible for checking vehicle roadworthiness when the test was introduced in 1960. An MOT test is an annual inspection that ensures your vehicle meets the minimum environmental and road safety standards required by the law. If your vehicle is more than 3 years old, you will have an MOT test every year. However, some classic cars and other historic vehicles may be exempt from MOTs if they fit a certain criteria. 

How long does an MOT test take? 

Typically, an MOT test lasts around 45 to 60 minutes. This allows for a thorough check of your vehicle whilst not taking up too much of your time. You will be able to go about your day as usual and be able to collect your vehicle in no time at all.  

If your vehicle passes its MOT test, you will receive a certificate and can safely drive your car until your next MOT test is due the following year. If your car fails its MOT, you will be presented with a VT30 ‘Refusal of an MOT Test Certificate’ that informs you of a list of reasons why your vehicle has not passed the test and what to do next.  

What is checked during an MOT test? 

An MOT test consists of various checks to ensure the car is safe to drive on the road. These checks include: 

• Seats 
• Horn  
• Speedometer  
• Car body 
• Registration plates 
• Doors 
• Lights 
• Tyre size & structure 
• Tyre condition 
• Wheels 
• Windscreen 
• Washers & wipers 
• Mirrors 
• Engine 
• Steering 
• Suspension 
• Battery 
• Brakes 
• Exhaust  
• Emissions  

How to prepare for an MOT test 

Your MOT test will occur every year. But is your car ready to be tested and is it likely to pass? Here are some quick and easy checks to prepare for an MOT test and to give your vehicle the best chance of passing. 

• Check to see if all your lights are working properly. These include headlamps, parking lights, reversing lights, indicators, registration plate bulbs 

• Check your dashboard warning lights come on and then go off when your turn the ignition 
   
• Ensure your tyres are in top condition. Looks for signs of damage such as punctures, inflate your tyres to the correct pressure and measure your tyre tread depth 
   
• Check your view from your windscreen is not obstructed  

• Ensure your mirrors are clear and visible 
   
• Test your handbrake, steering and horn 
   
• Carry out some mechanical checks such as giving your exhaust the all-clear and ensuring your fuel system is free of damages  
   
• Give your car a good clean 

Here at Merityre, all our MOT test branches are DVSA approved and have reached green rated approval levels. What’s more, all Merityre MOT testers are fully trained to the highest level. Book your MOT Test online today or contact our friendly team to find out more. Make sure to check out our gold club for a 10% discount on MOT testing and more – sign up today and start saving.