Top Tips for Passing at your MOT Test Centre

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by: Glenn Tucker
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Word Count: 777
Date: Sun, 6 Nov 2011 Time: 4:29 AM
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The MOT is an annual safety test performed on road vehicles to ensure their road-worthiness. Cars which are normally in proper conditions have all the chances to pass their MOT. A good maintenance can reflect on more than just the vehicle's safety, but also on its value and reduced running and servicing costs. The required standard of maintenance must be carried out by reporting to the manufacturer's specifications. Still, small elements such as lights, windshield washers, wipers, horns, mirrors or seatbelts can deteriorate easily during a year, which means it is always important to have the elements checked before the MOT testing.

Around 45% of the UK cars fail their annual MOT as a result of owners' negligence of not performing simple checks and processes, or performing more complex procedures without qualified experience. There are MOT test centres which offer very low servicing quality and charge more for the technological equipment used and spare parts; a solution to this is to seek council approved MOT test centres which normally provide free services for council members. A more convenient alternative is to see independent government approved garages which provide the MOT certificate alone, without carrying any unnecessary repairs on the car and charging extra money.

A first tip for passing an MOT is to make a good impression on the testing day. This involves giving the car a good cleaning both inside and outside, from wheel archers to suspension components. These are essential inspection areas of the MOT test. A thorough check will be performed on the car's cleaning and practical capacities, which includes the windshield washer tank. If the liquid used to clean the driver's windshield is not for car use only, the test could be failed as the liquid does not clean effectively and may cause sight blockage for the driver. Also, refilling the tank before the test is important to prove that the car is in perfect condition.

Another check prior to the MOT test is verifying the status of all exterior lights. If they are not working properly, they need replacing which is a simple process and can be performed by the owner himself. However, it is imperative that all newly fitted elements are installed properly. Failing to provide evidence of working indicator bulbs and effective headlights are most of the reasons MOT tests are unsuccessful.

A car's tyres are the first most important safety feature of the vehicle, providing the all-road performance. From both legal and safety perspectives, the least amount of wear caused to the tyres should be 1.6mm of tread width. Even so, the overall maintenance of the tyres should not be ignored; small threads like swellings, visible cords or cuts in the side-wall of the tyre can make a huge difference. If this is the case, tyre replacement is recommended before the MOT test. The size and the pressure of the tyres should also be checked, along with the rolling speed. A common failure caused to the wheels of the car is due to dented interior brims which could force the pressure in the tyres to increase alarmingly or decrease too much.

Another useful tip is to carefully inspect the windscreen. Any damage such as a chip or a crack is legally not permitted to be wider than 10mm. A next important consideration is the horn; if it does not work it could result in a failed MOT. The exhaust system should also be checked to prevent any broken hangers or oxidized exhaust eliminated in the air.

The general vehicle condition must inspire safety and functionality. The registration plates must be clear and readable, the seatbelts must be in proper using condition, as well as the front and rear seats, which need to demonstrate solidity and security.

The MOT is a necessary safety procedure which validates that a car has undertaken regular and complex maintenance checks, making it an appropriate vehicle to be driven on the UK roads. Every vehicle must take the MOT test after 3 years of usage, which can be done at your local MOT test centre, as it is a legal requirement. Not having an MOT certificate prevents paying road taxes which means the car is not allowed on roads. The maximum fine for neglecting the annual MOT test is of £1,000. However stressful a safety test may be, there are several procedures which can be performed prior to the examination day to ensure guaranteed success. Respecting there procedures and having regular car services will make sure the car does not fail because of something insignificant.

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For more information on getting a cheap MOT, finding you local MOT test centre and important information regarding your MOT online.