An MOT check is a yearly inspection of a car’s roadworthiness, safety, and exhaust emissions. Almost all vehicles over three years of age are required to undergo an MOT test in the UK and Northern Ireland. It’s important to know that your car needs this inspection to keep it on the road safely. The test takes about an hour and can be performed by a garage or independent technician.
The DVLA has several websites that let you check your vehicle’s MOT status. These are a great way to find out if your car is due for a service. Some even include service schedules.
When Do I Need an HGV MOT Check?
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Every year, HGVs must undergo a full HGV MOT check. This includes a visual inspection of the vehicle’s safety features and a test to make sure it’s working properly. The annual check is a far more thorough procedure than daily checks, and examiners will look for any signs of damage, wear, or developing mechanical faults.
It’s important to remember that HGVs must undergo an annual MOT test – they must be tested every year, regardless of whether they’re for business or pleasure. This is because their legal requirements are different from that of standard cars. In addition, HGVs require a more complicated and expensive MOT. Fortunately, there are companies in the UK that can complete these tests for you.
There are also a few exceptions to the HGV MOT requirement. If your HGV was manufactured before 1960 or was registered before 1st March 2015, you can get an exemption certificate. In addition, you can apply for an exemption certificate if you’re selling the vehicle, or transferring its registration number.
In addition to annual tests, there are voluntary tests that you can take. Some schemes require you to have a test certificate in order to transfer the registration number off a vehicle. You can also apply for an exemption from heavy goods vehicle annual testing through the government website. The government will then require the exemption form when you apply for Road Tax.
What is Checked in an HGV MOT Check?
An HGV MOT check is a safety check that will evaluate the condition of your vehicle. Among other things, the examiner will examine the lamps in your vehicle. If they are not in the right place or are not working properly, you will likely fail the check. Make sure all your lamps are in working order and secure. It’s also a good idea to have specialist lights checked.
Another area of concern is the steering mechanism. A steering mechanism is a vital element of an HGV’s maintenance. One reason why HGVs failed their annual check last year was because of faulty steering. The DVSA’s HGV inspection manual states that a steering mechanism must be functional, smooth, and easy to operate.
The DVSA also tests the vehicle’s brake system. In 2016, brake system failures accounted for 5.1% of all HGV MOT failures. Brake system problems affect both parking and secondary brakes. If the brakes are in bad condition, you will need to get them fixed or replaced.
You can also have your vehicle inspected before it goes for its MOT. You can schedule a pre-MOT check with a qualified mechanic. A qualified mechanic will use an MOT inspection manual for HGVs and PSVs.
How Long Does an HGV MOT Check Take?
How long it takes to complete an HGV MOT check UK depends on the type of HGV you have. For instance, a 1-axle trailer takes no more than 25 minutes. However, if you have a 4+ axle trailer, you may have to wait up to an hour for the check to complete. The cost also depends on the size of the HGV. An HGV MOT check can cost between £40 to £150.
A vehicle that passes its MOT will receive a certificate, which will allow it to drive legally for a year. If a vehicle fails its MOT, it will be repaired or deemed ‘unroadworthy’. In most cases, the vehicle will be passed if there is no dangerous fault. However, a vehicle with a dangerous fault will require a retest.
When you book your MOT test, try to book a few weeks before it’s due. This will give you a buffer so you can drive the vehicle until the expiry date. However, you should keep in mind that a garage cannot always fit you in on the same day. You can also take advantage of online MOT checkers that save your vehicle’s details and will provide an instant MOT check.
If you’re in a hurry to get your MOT check, you can book an appointment at a bigger garage that specialises in this type of vehicle maintenance. These centres usually have a long waiting list of customers, which means you have to book in advance.