Owning a new car in the UK comes with a lot of excitement—and a few responsibilities. One crucial thing to remember is when your first MOT is scheduled. Under the new car MOT rules, your automobile does not need testing straight away, but it is still crucial to clearly understand when it is needed. In this article, we will discuss when you should plan your first MOT test, why it is crucial, and how to avoid penalties for missing it.
When Exactly Is A New Car Due For Its First MOT?
The first MOT on new car in the UK is necessary when it becomes three years old. Your first MOT due date is three years from the day the automobile was initially registered. Your new automobile is not obliged to get an MOT up until then. However, after three years, it is a legal obligation to have the automobile inspected to guarantee it is roadworthy and satisfies safety criteria. Ignoring this might result in fines or penalties, so it is crucial to know when that initial test is required.
What To Expect During the First MOT Test?
An MOT test aims to ensure your vehicle meets environmental regulations while remaining safe to drive. Various components will be examined during this process to confirm they're all working efficiently—particularly brakes, tyres, lights, and steering system components—plus exhaust emissions testing is conducted to make sure they fall within legal restrictions.
During the test, they will also examine the state of the seatbelts, windscreen wipers, and bodywork. They will inspect even small details like the horn and registration plates—the MOT might fail if any of these components are broken or malfunctioning.
If your vehicle passes its test—usually lasting 45 to 60 minutes—you will receive a valid certificate that lasts 12 months. Should it fail, however, you will get an assessment list with necessary repair requirements (that you will resolve before you can pass the test).
How to prepare for the MOT test?
Preparing for your MOT test can save both time and stress. Many common issues that lead to failure can easily be identified and repaired before test day arrives. Start with basic lights and signals checks—ensure all headlights, brake lights, indicators, and fog lights are functioning optimally. If any bulbs are out or lenses are cracked, replace them before the test.
Next, inspect your tyres carefully—they must have at least 1.6mm tread depth without wear and tear and be properly inflated within their recommended levels.
Never neglect to test your brakes! If you hear strange noises or experience unusual vibrations when applying brakes, that could be an indicator that they require attention. Furthermore, the suspension and steering should be checked for any stiffness or leaks or to detect any other problems early.
Make sure your windscreen, mirrors, and exhaust are in top shape—clear any cracks or chips that might obscure your view. Also, check for smoke from the exhaust and noise coming from it.
How Long Does The MOT Test Typically Take?
MOT tests usually take around 45-60 minutes, depending on the garage and whether you require any minor repairs during the inspection. If your car passes, you will get its MOT certificate immediately; otherwise, you'll get a list of issues that need fixing in order to pass.
What To Do If Your Car Fails Its First MOT Test?
Do not fret if your first MOT fails—it is perfectly normal, and most issues can be corrected quickly. However, once it fails, the garage will provide a failure document detailing exactly what went wrong and any necessary repairs. Most test centres offer free retests once all issues have been addressed!
Start by reviewing your failure report. It should contain details about which parts didn't meet safety standards—such as lights that didn't work as they should, worn tyres, or brake issues. These issues must be repaired before you make another attempt to test your vehicle.
You can choose to have repairs completed either at the same garage or take your car elsewhere; just ensure all work is undertaken by a reliable mechanic for optimal performance.
After making all necessary repairs to your vehicle, schedule your free retest within ten working days if possible—this way, you might get your retest for free. However, if you delay or visit another garage, you may have to pay full MOT test fees.
Driving without an updated MOT is illegal, so repairs should not be put off longer than necessary.
Check Your Car's MOT Status Instantly With Our Tool
Know when it's time for an MOT to avoid fines and keep your vehicle roadworthy. You can use our convenient MOT History Check tool. Using just your registration number, you'll instantly discover when the next test will be due, whether your car passed or failed previous MOTs and any advisories issued against your car.
Use of this tool can save a great deal of hassle. This gives you a clear record of when and what repairs or issues have been flagged during previous MOT tests, making it easier to stay on top of maintenance and avoid expensive surprises.
Before taking your next MOT test, it is a smart move to handle the things to check before MOT day. This could include checking that all lights are functional, checking that tread depth is at least 1.6mm on tyres, testing brakes as necessary, and making sure the windscreen is free from cracks or chips—these simple tasks could ensure your car passes with flying colours!
Don't wait till it's too late: use our MOT history check tool now and ensure your car is prepared to hit the road.
