A safety and emissions check
The MOT confirms your car meets the minimum legal standards for road safety and exhaust emissions. It is a snapshot on the day, not a guarantee the car will stay roadworthy all year, and it is not the same as a service.
What the tester inspects
Among other things, the test covers:
- Brakes, including a brake efficiency test
- Steering and suspension
- Tyres and wheels
- Lights, indicators and the horn
- Windscreen, wipers, washers and mirrors
- Seatbelts and the structure of the car
- Exhaust emissions and the exhaust system
What it does not cover
The MOT does not check the condition of the engine, clutch or gearbox beyond emissions, and it is not a measure of general reliability. That is what servicing is for, and why the two go hand in hand.
