Fareham MOT
The MOT test is a legal requirement designed to ensure your vehicle meets essential safety and environmental standards. If your car is more than three years old, you’ll need to book an annual MOT to stay roadworthy and compliant. During the test, trained technicians will inspect key areas of your vehicle, including the interior, exterior, under the bonnet, and beneath the car. Ready to book your Fareham MOT? Get started today by clicking the button below:
What Happens During an MOT Test?
Once the test is complete, your vehicle will either pass or fail, with the outcome documented on one of two certificates:
- Pass (VT20 MOT Certificate): Confirms that your car meets the minimum safety standards.
- Fail (VT30 Certificate): Lists reasons why your vehicle did not meet the standards, including specific faults.
The MOT primarily focuses on safety-critical systems such as brakes, emissions, and tyres. While the test is comprehensive, it is a visual inspection, so technicians cannot make adjustments or repairs during the process. To ensure your vehicle remains in top condition year-round, regular servicing alongside your MOT is recommended.
Understanding MOT Defect Categories
Changes introduced in May 2018 brought a new classification system for MOT defects. These are now categorised as follows:
| Dangerous | A defect that has a direct and immediate risk to road safety or presents a serious impact on the environment. Do not drive the vehicle until it has been repaired. | Fail |
| Major | Possible effect on vehicle safety and may put other road users at risk or have an impact on the environment. Repair the defect immediately. | Fail |
| Minor | No significant effect on the safety of the vehicle or impact on the environment. Repairs are required as soon as possible. | Pass |
| Advisory | Not a safety concern yet but could become more serious in the future. Monitor and repair if needed. | Pass |
| Pass | It meets the minimum legal standard. Ensure that it continues to meet the standard. | Pass |
For diesel vehicles, stricter emissions standards apply. Any smoke emissions or evidence of tampered diesel particulate filters (DPFs) will result in a major fault and a test failure. MOT certificates now clearly list defects according to these categories, making it easier to understand any issues with your vehicle.
MOT Exemptions and Additional Vehicle Checks
Vehicles over 40 years old may not need an MOT unless they have undergone substantial modifications. If you’re unsure about your vehicle’s eligibility, check its registration date online. Modern MOT tests also include enhanced checks, such as:
- Steering systems (including for leaks)
- Reversing lights
- Brake discs (significant wear will result in failure)
Stay up to date with these changes to avoid unexpected surprises during your test. Here’s a detailed guide with insider tips on how to pass your MOT the first time.
Why Choose Elite Garages Fareham for Your MOT?
Our Fareham branch offers MOT testing for cars and light commercial vehicles. The test takes approximately an hour, and while you wait, there are plenty of nearby amenities for your convenience. From shopping at Aldi, enjoying a drink at Cafe Ethos or the Vintage Tea Room a few minutes walk away.
After the test, our skilled technicians will explain the results and provide advice if any work is needed. For added peace of mind, we offer a FREE retest within 10 working days if your car fails.
Convenient Online Booking and Text Reminders
Booking your MOT has never been easier with our new online system. Choose from available time slots, some of which come at discounted rates. Additionally, sign up for our FREE text reminder service to ensure you never miss your MOT date. Missing an MOT could result in fines of up to £1,000, invalid insurance, and even greater penalties for serious faults. Don’t wait until it’s too late—book your Fareham MOT online today and stay safe and compliant on the road.