MOT Checklist: What Do They Test on Your Car?

Summary

• Over 100 items are checked: Including lights, brakes, tyres, steering, and exhaust emissions.
• The test takes 45-60 minutes: A trained tester follows a set checklist from the DVSA.
• You can prepare: Check our common MOT failures guide to avoid surprises.

An MOT is a yearly health check for your car. It makes sure your vehicle is safe and legal to drive on UK roads.

Here is a full breakdown of what the MOT tester checks and how you can prepare.

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Lights and Electrics

The tester will check all your lights work properly:

• Headlights: Both dipped and full beam. They must aim correctly too.
• Brake lights: All rear brake lights must work.
• Indicators: Front, rear, and side repeaters must flash at the right speed.
• Fog lights: Rear fog light must work (front is optional).
• Number plate light: Must clearly light up the rear plate.
• Hazard lights: Must flash all indicators together.

A blown bulb is the most common reason for an MOT fail. Check them yourself before the test. It takes five minutes and could save you a retest fee.

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Brakes

Brakes are one of the most important parts of the MOT. The tester checks:

• Brake performance: Using a rolling road to measure stopping power.
• Brake balance: Both sides must brake evenly.
• Handbrake: Must hold the car on a slope.
• Brake pedal: Must feel firm and not sink to the floor.
• Brake discs and pads: Checked for wear and damage.
• Brake pipes and hoses: Must not be corroded, leaking, or damaged.

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Tyres and Wheels

Your tyres must meet strict standards:

• Tread depth: At least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters of the tyre.
• Condition: No cuts, bulges, or exposed cords.
• Size and type: Tyres must match on each axle.
• Wheel security: All wheel nuts must be present and tight.

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Steering and Suspension

The tester checks your steering and suspension for wear:

• Steering wheel play: Must not have excessive movement.
• Power steering: Must work and not leak fluid.
• Shock absorbers: Must control bounce properly.
• Springs: Must not be broken or cracked.
• Ball joints and bushes: Must not be worn or damaged.

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Exhaust and Emissions

Your exhaust system and emissions are tested:

• Exhaust condition: No leaks, holes, or excessive rust.
• Exhaust mountings: Must be secure.
• Emissions test: Measured at the tailpipe. Limits depend on your car's age and fuel type.
• Catalytic converter: Must be present and working.

Diesel cars have a stricter emissions test. Taking your car for a 20-minute drive before the test helps it pass.

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Body and Structure

The tester looks at the overall condition of your car:

• Rust and corrosion: Structural areas like sills, floor, and chassis must be solid.
• Doors: Must open and close securely. Latches must work.
• Mirrors: Must be present and not cracked.
• Windscreen: Must not have cracks or chips in the driver's viewing area.
• Wipers and washers: Must clear the windscreen effectively.
• Horn: Must be loud enough to warn other road users.

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Seats and Seatbelts

• Driver seat: Must adjust and lock in position.
• Seatbelts: All fitted belts must work. They must lock when pulled sharply.
• Seatbelt condition: No fraying, cuts, or damage to the webbing.

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What Is Not Tested

Some things are not part of the MOT:

• Engine condition and performance
• Clutch and gearbox
• Air conditioning
• Bodywork cosmetics (dents, scratches)
• Spare tyre
• Sat nav or infotainment

The MOT only checks safety and environmental standards. A pass does not mean your car is in perfect condition.

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How to Prepare for Your MOT

1. Check all lights and bulbs are working.
2. Top up your windscreen washer fluid.
3. Make sure your tyres have enough tread.
4. Check your wipers clear the screen properly.
5. Look under the car for obvious leaks or damage.
6. Remove warning lights by getting faults diagnosed.

Use our MOT history check to see what came up at last year's test. Fix those items first.

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Final Thoughts

Knowing what gets checked makes it easy to prepare. A few minutes of basic checks at home can save you time and money at the garage.

Check your MOT history with CarOwl and stay ahead of any potential issues.

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