MOT & Servicing – Frequently Asked Questions

 Is it true that tyre pressures are checked during a MOT?

No, not at all. Tyre pressure isn't covered in and of itself, however if a tyre has damage that is releasing pressure, the tyre may fail the MOT. Furthermore, from 2012, vehicles have been obliged to feature a TPMS (Tyre Pressure Monitoring System), which if defective, will result in a serious or dangerous MOT test failure.

What should I do if I believe my vehicle's MOT was wrongly failed?

If you believe your vehicle has been erroneously failed, the DVSA recommends that you first speak with the MOT testing station. This gives them the chance to explain why the car failed and make amends if they made a mistake. If you're still unsatisfied, you can get an appeal form (VT17) from the testing station or the DVSA's website and submit it within 14 days of the failure.Check MOT status and book your car in with your local mechanic to have pre-MOT test checks completed beforehand to avoid any further hassle and unnecessary delays.

What happens if my vehicle fails the MOT?

If a vehicle fails its MOT, it is in fact illegal and must be fixed to fulfil MOT testing criteria. The MOT report will include remarks on the failure as well as warning issues that should be addressed but are not currently outside of the test boundaries. Please keep in mind that some garages in Reading may not be able to perform the necessary repairs for your vehicle to pass its MOT. It's recommended to double-check before making a reservation by phoning the selected garage.

Is it possible for a car to pass a MOT with a warning light on?

No. Warning lights indicate when anything need immediate care, so things like an incorrect engine oil level or a deteriorated battery will cause your MOT test to fail. Your warning lights must also work correctly, and testers will be able to verify that the sensors are working properly.  It is recommended to search online for car service near me and book your car with a garage that not only carries out MOT testing service but also vehicle repair and maintenance.

When is your first MOT due? Do you get a notification?

Your local garage or MOT centre may notify you, but it is your obligation to check the renewal date and schedule an appointment with an approved MOT testing centre. If you're afraid about forgetting, you can look for online companies that offer a free MOT reminder service. You may need to sign-up with them and once completed, they will send you an email when your MOT is due.

Will a MOT fail because of a crack in the windscreen?

An MOT will fail if a crack or chip in the 290mm region in front of the driver (zone A) is bigger than 10mm. A crack or chip greater than 40mm in any other location will likewise fail a MOT test. Go through your documentation and check MOThistory of your car to see if this was a 'advisory' item of the MOT test, as it might be a failure today. It's a good idea to get chips fixed as soon as possible because it's a cheap fix that'll save you money over the expense of a new windscreen and a MOT re-test.