What Does the MOT Test Cover?
The MOT test examines over 100 items on your vehicle across several categories. These include lights, steering and suspension, brakes, tyres and wheels, seat belts, bodywork and structure, exhaust emissions, windscreen and wipers, horn and mirrors. Each component is assessed as either passing, having an advisory (a potential future issue), a minor defect, a major defect or a dangerous defect. Major and dangerous defects result in an automatic fail.
Common MOT failure reasons include worn tyres with insufficient tread depth (the legal minimum is 1.6 millimetres across the central three-quarters of the tread), faulty bulbs, excessive exhaust emissions, windscreen damage in the driver’s line of sight and worn brake pads or discs. Many of these issues are straightforward and inexpensive to fix before the test, which is why a pre-MOT check can save you a retest fee.
MOT Costs and How to Save
The maximum fee a testing station can charge for a standard car MOT is currently 54.85 pounds, though most garages charge between 30 and 50 pounds to stay competitive. Many offer MOT deals bundled with a service, which can be good value if your car is due for both. Some garages provide free retests within a set period if your car fails, so ask about this when booking. You can also get your MOT done up to one month before the expiry date without losing any time on your current certificate.
If your car fails its MOT, you have the right to take it to a different garage for repairs. The testing station must provide a written list of the defects found, and you do not have to pay for repairs at the same place. However, if the failure is for a dangerous defect, you must not drive the car on public roads until the issue is fixed, except to take it directly to a pre-booked appointment for repair.
Preparing Your Car for the MOT
A quick visual inspection before your MOT appointment can help you catch common failure points. Check all exterior lights are working, including brake lights, indicators, fog lights and number plate lights. Examine tyres for adequate tread depth and any damage to sidewalls. Top up windscreen washer fluid and ensure the wipers clear the screen effectively. Make sure the horn works, mirrors are secure and the dashboard warning lights go out after starting the engine.
Check your full motoring costs with our fuel cost calculator and car tax calculator. For official MOT information and to check your vehicle’s history, visit GOV.UK.
This calculator provides estimates for guidance only. Results are based on the figures you enter and typical UK averages. This is not professional, financial, medical or legal advice. Always consult a qualified professional for specific guidance.