How To Get An MOT Reminder

MOT Reminder: It is easy to forget when your MOT is due and that can leave you open to a whole host of problems. With Elite Garages, you can book yours online and sign up for an MOT reminder service so you’ll never forget again.[/vc_column_text]

When Is Your MOT Due

MOT testing is compulsory for all vehicles in the UK that are older than three years. It is an annual inspection with strict criteria set out according to DVSA to determine whether or not your car is fit for purpose and roadworthy. The primary focus of the test is checking vehicle safety with brakes and emissions receiving special attention.

What Does An MOT Entail?

An MOT covers various vehicle safety checks from lights and tyres to seatbelts and emissions. Only centres with DVSA-approved examiners may carry out the test. Keep in mind that this test is only a visual check and not an actual car service. Examiners only inspect the vehicle for faults but cannot make any repairs and you still need to book a service.

Examiners conduct a comprehensive series of checks on the exterior, interior, under the bonnet and underneath the vehicle. Some of the components examiners tests include:

  • Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
  • Registration plate
  • Lights
  • Steering and suspension
  • Windscreen
  • Wipers and washer bottle
  • Horn
  • Seats and seatbelts
  • Fuel systems
  • Emissions
  • Bodywork
  • Doors and mirrors
  • Brakes
  • Wheels and tyres

After completion, examiners will inform you of the results and advise if any work is required. At Elite Garages, we also offer a FREE retest within 10 working days.

Minor, Major or Dangerous Defects

Defects identified during the test are classified as minor, major or dangerous. The category will depend on the type of problem and the severity thereof. Examiners will provide advice on the defects in question that may need close monitoring and repair if necessary.

  • Minor faults are seen as the advisory notices that testers add to MOT certificates. These only apply to items that are not serious enough to fail the car but still require attention
  • Major faults must be repaired before the car can pass the test. If you don’t use the MOT centre for repairs, you may drive your car from to another garage if required.
  • Dangerous faults automatically result in a ‘FAIL’ and you cannot drive the car on public roads until repairs are made

What Happens If I Don’t Have A Certificate?

Your first test is due when your car reaches three years from its date of registration and then it is required annually. Without a valid certificate, you could face fines of up to £1,000 and invalidate your insurance. If you are caught driving with a dangerous fault, fines can reach £2,500 and you will receive three penalty points on your license.

Check Points On Your Licence

As a simple guide, the expiry date of your MOT is on your existing certificate. You could also have your vehicle tested up to 28 days in advance but please remember that MOTs are valid for 12 months from the expiry date of your old certificate and not the test date.

Related Article: ‘What To Do If My MOT Has Expired’

Become An Elite Member And Receive Your MOT Reminder

With DVSA accredited branches across the south offering exceptional customer service, expert and professional workmanship, Elite Garages provide incredible value. We perform MOT tests on cars and small commercial vehicles at all of our branches except Strood. The test takes about an hour and you can even book a service if your car needs repairs. There are also absolutely no hidden extras and we will never charge you for anything without your prior consent.

While it is ultimately your responsibility to book a test every year, we’d like to make your life a little easier. If you join the Elite Members Club, we will send you a FREE MOT reminder text every year plus other benefits including FREE vehicle checks and special offers and discounts.

Why Choose Elite Garages?

Don’t compromise on safety by failing to get a test or with cheap tyres and bad service and advice. Trust in Elite Garages to provide quality services you’d come to expect from a family-owned and managed company. We offer greater value with no hidden costs or small print while our new website makes it super easy to book online, and not only MOTs but also car services and tyres.

Make the right choice and book your MOT with us today to ensure a safer journey for you and your family. Get in touch with Elite Garages if you need any advice from our expert, professional and friendly staff. We are here to help you with all your tyre needs, MOTs, full car services, wheel alignment, brakes, exhausts and much more.

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