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MOT Guides

Our complete guide to the UK MOT test. What's checked, costs, common fails, pre-MOT checks to pass first time, and the latest rules.

Check any car's MOT history for free. See past test results, advisories, failures, and mileage records to spot clocked cars and hidden problems.

Find out when your MOT expires for free. Learn about booking early, what happens if it expires, and how to set reminders.

What do advisories, minor defects, major defects, and dangerous defects actually mean? A clear guide to understanding your MOT results.

Everything you need to know about booking an MOT. Where to go, what to bring, how to prepare your car, and what to expect on the day.

Failed your MOT? Don't panic. Learn what to do next, how to get a cheap retest, and how to avoid failure in the future.

An MOT test usually takes 45 minutes to an hour. Learn what happens during the test and when to book for the shortest wait.

Forgot your MOT? Here's what to do, whether you can still drive, and how to get legal again quickly.

How to check MOT history for older cars, plus which vehicles are exempt from the annual test.

How to use CarOwl's free MOT checker and when to upgrade to a full vehicle history report.

Your complete guide to what happens during an MOT test. Learn what gets checked, the process, timing, and how to prepare.

Nearly 40% of cars fail their MOT. Find out the top reasons and how to avoid them.

Lights, tyres, and brakes are the top MOT failures. Learn how to check them yourself before your test.

Cars over 40 years old are MOT exempt. Learn the rules, exceptions, and whether you should still get a test.

An MOT test costs up to £54.85 for cars. But many garages charge less. Learn where to find cheap MOTs and how to avoid surprise costs.

You can check any car's MOT history for free. Learn what to look for, how to spot red flags, and why MOT history matters when buying used.

Driving without a valid MOT is illegal in the UK and can lead to a £1,000 fine. Learn the rules, exceptions, and how to avoid getting caught out.

MOT advisories are warnings about parts that may fail soon. They do not cause a fail, but ignoring them can be costly.

Yes, you can get your MOT up to one month early without losing any time on your certificate.

An MOT covers over 100 checks on your car. Learn exactly what they test so you can prepare and pass first time.

Diesel cars face a strict emissions test during the MOT. Learn what they check, why diesels fail, and tips to pass.

The MOT test updates regularly. Here are the latest changes for 2026 and what they mean for your car.

Think your car failed its MOT unfairly? You can appeal. Here is how the process works and what to expect.

Driving without a valid MOT is illegal. Learn the fines, penalties, and what to do if your MOT has expired.

Simple checks before your MOT can save you money. Here are the top tips to help your car pass first time.

An MOT and a service are not the same thing. Learn what each one covers and why you need both.