CAR MOT TESTING IN STOKE HAMMOND

Get your car booked in for its annual MOT test using the live online booking system below.

BOOK YOUR MOT TEST ONLINE

At Southlands Autocentre in Stoke Hammond, our fully qualified technicians will carry out your MOT test with state of art MOT testing facilities for Class 4 & Class 7 MOT rest assured your vehicle is the best hands.
Please enter your vehicle registration below and click ‘Search’ to view and book MOT and Service packages for your vehicle.

WHAT IS AN MOT?

MOT testing is required by law on all vehicles in the UK that are 3 years old or more. The annual inspection follows strict criteria set out by the DVSA that determines if your car is fit for purpose and in roadworthy condition. The MOT test covers a broad range of vehicle safety checks including lights, tyres, seatbelts and emissions and can only be carried out by a MOT garage with DVSA-approved examiners. For a full list of what is included in a MOT when you have your test at Southlands Autocentre, see our MOT checklist.
During the MOT test the nominated tester, a person accredited by the DVSA to assess your vehicle, will conduct a comprehensive inspection to ensure the vehicle is in roadworthy condition. However, it is not the same as having your vehicle serviced and the MOT test does not check the general mechanical condition of the vehicle. Also, the assessment is based on the condition of the vehicle on the day.
If the vehicle passes, the nominated tester will separately list and inform you of any ‘advisory’ or ‘minor’ items that will require attention soon so you can keep an eye on them.
If the vehicle fails, you may be entitled to a free re-test within 10 days.

HOW OFTEN DO YOU NEED A MOT?

All vehicles 3 years old or more are required to have a valid MOT test certificate which should be renewed annually. It is your responsibility to ensure your vehicle is examined every 12 months. You can find the expiry date of your MOT on your existing MOT test certificate and you can have your vehicle MOT tested up to 28 days in advance. The expiry date on your new MOT is 12 months from the expiry of your old one rather than 12 months from the day you took the test, so as long as your MOT test is due in the next 28 days, you won’t lose any days for having your vehicle tested early.

WHAT DO I NEED TO TAKE WITH ME?

The only thing you need to bring with you is the vehicle being tested! Our nominated tester will be able to look up your vehicle on the DVSA database to find the existing MOT details. You can even book MOT tests up to 1 month before your current due date without losing the existing expiry date, essentially giving your 13 months on your MOT instead of 12. Book your MOT online today.

WHAT IF MY MOT HAS EXPIRED?

Without a current MOT certificate, you will be unable to drive your vehicle lawfully or renew your road tax. The penalty for not having an up to date MOT certificate could be a fine. Also, if the vehicle is involved in an accident you may be asked to produce your MOT certificate. An insurance claim could be affected by the absence of your MOT, especially in the case of injury.
Recent computerisation of the MOT testing system by DVSA means police and mobile camera units can now check remotely to see if your vehicle has a current MOT.

MOT WHILE YOU WAIT

The MOT test takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour to complete. Southlands Autocentre MOT test centre is equipped with comfortable seating, free tea and coffee and free Wi-Fi so you can make yourself at home and we will carry out your MOT while you wait.
WHAT’S INCLUDED IN A MOT?
The nominated tester in centre will check the following components to ensure each meets the minimum standard set out by the DVSA before issuing a MOT certificate.
The MOT test checks that the Vehicle Identification Number, commonly referred to as the VIN, is present and legibly displayed on the vehicle. The VIN is a unique code including a serial number that is stamped on the vehicle. The location of the VIN varies from one vehicle manufacturer to the next.
The MOT tester will check the condition, security, legibility and the format of letters and numbers on your registration plate. The spacing and lettering on the number plate must meet current regulations and should not be altered in any way.
The MOT test checks the condition, operation, security and colour of your vehicle’s lights. The test will also check to see if the headlamp aim is correct.
The MOT tester will also check the steering and suspension components for correct condition and that the operation is correct.
During the MOT the tester will check your vehicle’s wipers and washers ensuring they operate properly and give the driver a clear view of the road.
During the MOT the tester will check your vehicle’s windscreen for any chips or cracks. The maximum damage size is 10mm in the drivers’ line of vision or 40mm elsewhere in the remaining area swept by the wiper blades.
The MOT test will cover the horn’s operation for effectiveness and suitability.
Your vehicle’s front seats are checked for security during the MOT test.Fuel systemThe fuel system is checked during the MOT test for leaks and that the fuel cap fastens and seals securely.
The MOT test checks your exhaust emissions, ensuring that the vehicle is within the specified guidelines and that the exhaust is complete, secure, without serious leaks and silences effectively.
Vehicle structure and body shell are checked during the MOT test for excessive corrosion or damage in specific areas of the vehicle. Any sharp edge can result in a MOT failure.
The MOT tester will check that the doors open and close correctly and that the latch is secure in a closed position. Front doors should open from both the inside and outside of the vehicle. Rear doors may need to be opened to gain access to testable items like rear seatbelts.
The mirrors on your vehicle are checked during the MOT test for condition and security.
The nominated MOT tester will check the vehicle’s wheels and tyres for several key points: the condition, security, tyre size and type and tread depth.
The MOT tests the efficiency of the vehicle’s braking performance, condition and operation. Most vehicles are tested on a roller brake tester.
For more information about MOTs and the checks carried out as part of the MOT test, please visit the GOV.UK website
WHEN IS MY MOT TEST DUE?
To find out if your vehicle has a valid MOT and when your next MOT test is due, visit the GOV.UK website and enter your vehicle registration number.
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