Once a vehicle is over three years old, it will require an MOT test to ensure the vehicle is roadworthy.
The test covers a number of aspects to check if the vehicle meets all of the required safety and environmental standards.
If you are curious to understand what will be checked during an MOT test, the Filter Services team have put together the following guide so that you know what to expect.
Legal Checks
Before inspecting the vehicle itself, the first step is some housekeeping to ensure the number plate conforms to UK regulations (spacing and font). The number plates should also be securely held in place.
Next, they will check that the VIN number is also visible. The MOT due date, insurance and tax will also be checked.
General Condition
Before getting under the hood, the outer layers of the vehicle will be inspected. The technicians will be looking to ensure that the bodywork has no sharp edges, major damage, or rust near structural points.
Lights & Indicators
The dipped and main beam headlights will be tested to ensure they work. As will the brake lights by having another technician visually confirm.
Next, the indicators and hazard lights will be checked to ensure they function correctly, before moving onto the rear lights and number plate lights.
For the vehicle to pass its MOT, there should also be no cracked or fogged lenses.
Tyres & Wheels
A measuring device will be used to confirm that the tyres have at least 1.6mm tread across the central ¾. There should be no bulges, cuts or exposed cords
The wheels and wheel nuts should also be secure.
Brakes
The brakes will be tested to ensure the car doesn’t pull to one side when braking, the handbrake holds the car on a slope and that there are no warning lights for brakes on the dashboard.
Seats & Seat Belts
The driver’s seat should be fully secure and adjustable.
All seat belts should clip in, lock securely and retract properly. The seat belts will be thoroughly inspected to ensure there are no frayed or damaged belts.
Windscreen, Wipers & Washers
There should be no chips or cracks in the driver’s line of sight. The wipers need to be intact and be able to clear the windscreen. The screenwash should be topped up and should also spray correctly when tested.
Dashboard Warning Lights
Warning lights will be checked to see if there are any faults, or if any lights remain illuminated unnecessarily.
Under The Bonnet
The technician will carefully check under the bonnet to ensure there are no fluid leaks such as oil, coolant or brake fluid.
The battery should feel secure and the engine bay should be tidy with nothing that appears loose or damaged.
Exhaust & Emissions
The exhaust should not produce excessive smoke. It should feel secure with no unusual sounds.
Mirrors & Horn
All mirrors should be present, secure and free from cracks.
The horn will also be tested to ensure it works properly.
Types Of Filters That Can Affect Your MOT
Since we specialise in vehicle filters here at Filter Services UK, we think it’s important to also cover how each filter type can impact your MOT.
Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) – Diesel Vehicles Only
The DPF reduces harmful emissions by trapping soot from the exhaust. It’s a legal requirement to have DPF for most modern diesel cars (especially post-2009 Euro 5 and later).
If the DPF has been removed, tampered with or is not functioning properly, your car will fail the MOT. In addition, if there is visible smoke from the exhaust during the emissions test, it’s also a fail.
A DPF warning light illuminated on the dashboard is a major fault and an MOT fail.
Air Filter
A clean air filter ensures efficient engine performance and good fuel combustion.
While not checked directly, a clogged air filter can lead to increased emissions, potentially causing an emissions test fail.
It can also cause poor running or hesitation, which might affect how the tester perceives the car’s roadworthiness.
Fuel Filter
The fuel filter ensures clean fuel is delivered to the engine, which helps maintain proper engine operation and emissions control.
Like the air filter, it is not inspected directly during an MOT. However, if the filter is blocked, the engine may run poorly or stall. This could indirectly cause a failed test due to excessive emissions or engine misfire.
Oil Filter
The oil filter keeps the engine oil clean and flowing properly to help protect the engine.
It is also not checked directly. However, if neglected, it can cause oil leaks or engine issues which could also lead to a potential test failure.
Filter Services – Discover Our Vehicle Filters & Accessories
There’s lots to consider when your vehicle is due its MOT. One such aspect is the quality and overall condition of its filters, as vehicle filters can impact the engine, fuel efficiency and emissions.
If you require any filters for your vehicle, then head over to our filters page to view our available stock.
Filter Services is based in Chesterfield with additional locations in Leeds and Leicester.
For any help or enquiries please send us a message or give us a call on 01246 802 822.