How to Find if the Vehicle’s MOT Is Near?

The MOT test is a compulsory test for all vehicles in the UK. It is a test that is performed annually by the Ministry of Transport. Clearing this test means that the vehicle is eligible for the roads in the UK and is free from any defects. This test is in compliance with the safety and environmental standards as set by the government. So clearing this test means that the vehicle is not a hazard to the road and environment. Passing the MOT test accredits the vehicle with an MOT Birmingham pass certificate. All vehicles need to carry the MOT pass certificate, as this is a necessary document for the vehicle.

Why Is It Crucial to Get MOT Done on Time?

For a vehicle to be considered roadworthy, it is important for it to pass the MOT test and have its certificate. Without a valid MOT certificate, a vehicle is subject to fines since the MOT pass certificate certifies the legality of the vehicle. Also, it is important to get this test done in a timely done, as there is a due date for MOT. Absence of a valid MOT pass certificate not only leads to fines and penalties, but can also invalidate the insurance of the vehicle as well. It is important to get this done before the due date of the MOT comes. It is important to get the MOT test of the vehicle done before the expiration date of the previous one comes.

Knowing When the Vehicle Is Due for Its MOT

MOT is a compulsory test for vehicles above three years of age. For vehicles aged below that, undergoing and clearing the MOT test is not at all required. However, as the vehicle turns three, it has to be tested for its functions to make sure that it's eligible for the roads.  Besides checking the expiration date of the current MOT certificate, there are also other ways in which the vehicle tells that it's due for MOT.

Below are signs indicating the need for the MOT.

Expiration Date of the MOT

Nearing the expiration date of the MOT test is a sure sign that the vehicle needs to be tested for the MOT. The MOT test certificate mentions its expiry date. It is crucial to check the expiration date and get the vehicle booked for its MOT in advance. Once the vehicle is three years of age, it has to get its MOT done each year to get the certificate. To know when the MOT test is due, one can make sure of MOT reminders that inform when the vehicle’s MOT is approaching its end. One can also check the due date of their vehicle’s MOT on the official website of the UK government. It is crucial to book the MOT of the vehicle in advance. This helps avoid any delays in the MOT test. To check the expiration date, one can add the registration number of the vehicle in order to get all MOT-related information for the vehicle.

Dashboard Warning Lights

Another easy way to find out if the vehicle needs its MOT is to check the warning lights on the dashboard. The warning lights of the dashboard display when there are issues in the different components of the vehicle. If one or more of the lights is illuminated, then it means that there is something wrong with the vehicle. A vehicle having the warning lights on is definitely not in good condition and needs to be repaired before its MOT. For instance, if there are issues with the tyres or the tyre pressure is not correct, then this is displayed through the dashboard warning light. It is important to get this corrected, and certain issues also mean that the vehicle’s MOT is near as its performance is not up to the mark and it has to be repaired to clear the MOT.

Weird Sounds and Vibrations

If the vehicle is making excessive noises and vibrations, then it means that it needs to be repaired and its MOT date is nearing. The strange noises made by the vehicle imply issues in the different compartments of the vehicle. If the vehicle vibrates a lot when it's running at high speeds, then it needs to be checked and repaired by a professional. There could be rattling sounds made by the exhaust system, squeaking sounds of the brakes, or any other such noises. It is important to get the vehicle checked for faults and defects by Car Service Birmingham as noises and vibrations indicate issues in the vehicle, and this cannot make the vehicle clear the MOT test.

Conclusion

Different parts of the vehicle have to be assessed regularly, such as the exhaust, tyres, steering, suspension, tow bar, horns, engine, brakes, etc. The problems in the different parts of the vehicle indicate when the vehicle is due for its MOT. Apart from noticing the signs, one can also check the due date of their vehicle’s MOT online. There is an option for the MOT reminder service that informs when the due date of the MOT test is approaching.