You and your MOT

An MOT is a road safety measure
designed to ensure (as much as possible) that your vehicle is properly
maintained and meets environmental and road safety standards. The MOT test
relates only to the condition of your car at the time of testing. So, make sure
you continue with a regular maintenance and service schedule.

For more information visit http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/Motoring/OwningAVehicle/Mot/index.htm

How do I check my MOT test results?

You can
access your MOT test results and check your test status by visiting www.motinfo.go.uk.
It is run by the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA). Results of your
MOT test are computerised and you will receive a printed A4 certificate that is
issued as a receipt of your test results.

MOT and your tax disk

You must have a current MOT
certificate to apply for a new Vehicle Excising Licence (vehicle tax disk). You
can apply for your tax disk online on the DVLA website but only
if you have a new computerised MOT certificate. The Police have access to the
MOT database and can find out quickly and easily if you have a valid MOT
certificate.

How often do I need an MOT test?

It varies depending on the age of
your vehicle.

All cars over three years old need an
MOT test every year.

If you own a new car, you only need to
have an MOT test three years from the date of registration.

All vehicles used prior to registration
i.e. imports, must have an MOT test three years from the date of manufacture.

You are allowed to test your vehicle
one calendar month prior to the required date. However, the MOT certificate
will correlate to the date on either the first MOT certificate or the previous
one.

If you have an MOT test earlier than
one month prior to its due date, it will only be valid for 12 months from the
test date.

Who runs the MOT scheme?

VOSA operates the MOT scheme and
it is responsible for the regulation of over 19,000 MOT garages in the UK. VOSA
approved testing stations display a blue three triangles logo. VOSA ensures
that all approved testing stations maintain test methods, standards, trains
authorised examiners and nominated testers, and deals with consumer complaints.

What does an MOT test entail?

Testers will check the following:

Vehicle identification number ● Registration plate

Lights ● Steering

Suspension ● Wipers

Washers ● Windscreen

Horn ● Seatbelts

Seats ● Fuel system

Exhaust emissions ●
Exhaust system

Vehicle structure ●
Doors

Mirrors ● Wheels

Tyres ● Brakes

How much does an MOT test cost?

It varies depending on the size
of your car.

Cars with up to eight seats, motor
caravans, dual-purpose vehicles, and all public service vehicles (regardless of
age and number of seats) will be charged 50.35 (actual 53.10).

Private passenger vehicles with nine to
12 seats will be charged 52.60
(actual 57.65). You must have an MOT test after one year and annually
going forward.

(Prices correct as of March 2008
source: http://direct.gov.uk/en/Motoring/OwningAVehicle/Mot/DG_4022514)

What do I do if I am not
happy with my MOT test results?

The first thing you should do it
talk to the MOT testing station about your concerns.

If you are still unhappy, contact
VOSA. Do not go ahead with any repairs until you have filed your appeal. You
can get an appeal form from your testing station or by calling 0845 600 5977.
You must return your appeal form within 13 days of the test dates with the full
test fee. You may be reimbursed for the test fee if your appeal is successful.
However, if you lose your appeal, you may need to have repairs done in order to
get your MOT certificate.

What impact does my MOT have on my car insurance?

If you need to make a claim on
your car insurance, a valid MOT certificate is not a guarantee of the
road-worthiness of your car. You are responsible for maintenance and services
on your car between MOT tests. For a car insurance quote and more information
about the types of car insurance available from Churchill visit www.churchill.com/motor.

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