MOT Testing - What items are examined?

Registration plates

Condition, security, legibility and format of letters / numbers

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) details

A vehicle identification number must be permanently displayed and legible on a vehicle first used on or after 1 August 1980

General vehicle condition / Vehicle structure / Body condition / Body security

Free from excessive corrosion or damage in specific areas

Doors

Open and close. Latch securely in closed position. Front doors should open from inside and outside the vehicle. Rear doors may need to be opened to gain access to testable items

Wipers & Washers

Operate to give the driver a clear view of the road

Windscreen

Condition and drivers view of the road

Audible warning (horn)

Correct operation and type

Exhaust system & emissions

Complete, secure, without serious leaks and silences effectively and meets the requirement for exhaust emission. These vary on the age and fuel type of the vehicle

Mirrors

Presence, condition and security

Fuel system

No leaks, fuel cap fastens correctly and seals securely

Seats

Front seats secure. Front and rear backseats can be secured in the upright position

Seatbelts

All seatbelts installed are checked for type, condition, operation and security. All compulsory seatbelts must be in place

Wheels & tyres

Condition, security, tyre size and type, and tread depth. Spare tyres are not tested

Lights, Headlights / Front & rear position lights / Brake lights / Rear fog lights

Condition, operation, security and correct colour and correct aim for headlights

Rear registration plate lights

Condition, operation, security

Rear reflectors

Condition, operation, security and correct colour

Direction indicators and hazard warning lights

Condition, operation, security and correct colour

Steering system / Suspension and shock absorbers

Correct condition and operation

Brakes including Hand brake lever mechanism and Anti-lock braking system

Condition, operation and performance (efficiency test)