At Sell 2 Swansway, we understand how valuable your time is, and we're here to shed some light on the MOT process. Coming from the Ministry of Transport, the MOT is a crucial safety check that makes sure your vehicle meets the minimum standards of safety and performance.
So, whether you're nipping into a testing centre for a standard annual MOT or pairing it with another service, knowing how long you're going to be without your car will help you plan your day ahead with more efficiency. Join us as we explore the ins and outs of the MOT.
- What is an MOT test?
- What is checked during an MOT test?
- Average testing times for different vehicle types
- How long does an MOT normally take?
Find out when your MOT is due.
How long does an MOT take?
When it comes to making sure that your vehicle is in a roadworthy condition, the duration of an MOT test can vary depending on several factors, not least the type of vehicle you're getting checked for.
Cars
The most common vehicle tested in the UK, cars typically need around 45 minutes to ensure a well-rounded and thorough evaluation of all the relevant safety aspects.
Motorbikes
Given their simpler mechanics compared to larger vehicles, motorbikes can take a mere 30 minutes to complete their MOT.
Electric bikes & scooters
When it comes to their MOT test, their relatively simple mechanics and lack of complex engine system means it can take as little as 10 minutes to complete a thorough check.
Motorhomes
Since motorhomes are a blend of a vehicle and living space, they take a little longer than the average car during an MOT process, often up to 50 minutes.
What is an MOT?
The MOT test is a mandatory service test for cars and road vehicles in the UK older than three years. It checks that they meet the thorough legal standards set by transportation authorities to ensure the safety of drivers and other road users.
During the test, many aspects of the vehicle are carefully inspected, including seatbelts, tyres, windscreen wipers, brake fluid, and more.
When detected, minor issues can sometimes be resolved but major problems might need more attention.
Many common reasons for MOT test failures can often be preempted through regular vehicle servicing. This makes sure that your car remains in the best possible condition throughout your time with it.
What is checked during an MOT?
Let's take a closer look at the various elements that are inspected during an MOT.
Steering and suspension
This is the core of the vehicle's handling, and so any issues with the steering and suspension can lead to some serious accidents. Thorough checks are carried out here to ensure the vehicle still handles smoothly and safely.
Seats and seatbelts
Everyone knows that seatbelts save lives. To make sure that passengers and drivers remain protected at all times, the seats and seatbelts are checked for security and functionality.
Lights
From brake lights to headlights, each light on the vehicle is checked for alignment, brightness, and functionality.
Mirrors
The tester will make sure that you can see clearly through each mirror, and no cracks or defects are hindering this.
Windscreen
Not only is the windscreen checked to ensure a clear view of the road, but so are the windscreen wipers to see if they effectively clear away rain and debris that may hinder the driver's view of the road.
Wheels and tyres
Due to the potential for serious accidents, the tyre pressure and tread depth are checked, alongside the alignment and any possible damage to the tyres.
Fuel system
From fuel tanks to engine oil, the vehicle's fuel system is checked for leaks, improper sealing, and more.
Exhaust and emissions
Although not checked for road users' safety directly, emission checks are done to ensure that the vehicle is not emitting more carbon dioxide than environmental regulations allow.
Additional checks
Some elements like the registration plates are also assessed to ensure they're securely fixed and easily readable.
So, how long does an MOT take?
When it comes to the matter of how long an MOT takes, it’s clear that it’s more about understanding what is involved in each test to ensure that each vehicle is cleared to drive safely on our roads.
While the actual time spent at the testing centre might vary depending on a variety of factors like the type of vehicle, what remains is the importance of the MOT - for legal compliance and the safety of every road user and pedestrian in the country.
If you’re looking to sell your car before your next MOT check, why not consider Sell 2 Swansway? Part of the esteemed family of Swansway brands, we’re here to make selling your car easier and more convenient than ever before.
With accurate quotes that reflect current market trends, you’ll never get less than what you deserve for your car.
So, for a quick, easy 7-day guaranteed car valuation, hassle-free collection, and instant payment to your bank account once we’ve got your car, there’s never been a better time to sell your car with Sell 2 Swansway.