How Long Does an MOT Take and What’s Included in the Test? - MOT Tests in Lincoln
How Long Does an MOT Take and What’s Included in the Test? - MOT Tests in Lincoln
When it’s time for your car’s annual MOT, understanding what to expect can make the process easier and help you plan your day. At Andrews Car Centre in Lincoln, we know drivers often wonder how long the test will take and what aspects of their vehicle will be checked. This guide explains the typical MOT duration and the essential components of the test, ensuring you’re fully prepared.
How Long Does an MOT Take?
A standard MOT test typically takes 45 minutes to 1 hour. However, this can vary depending on factors such as:
- The Condition of the Vehicle – If the car is in good working order, the process is quicker.
- MOT Failures – If the vehicle fails the test, further inspections may be needed to identify all issues.
- Additional Repairs or Services – If repairs are carried out immediately after the test, this will extend the time your car is with us.
At Andrews Car Centre, we aim to complete MOTs efficiently while ensuring your car meets all safety and roadworthiness standards. If any issues are found, we provide clear explanations and offer repairs to help you pass the retest as quickly as possible.
What’s Included in the MOT Test?
The MOT test is designed to ensure your vehicle meets the minimum legal standards for safety, emissions, and roadworthiness. It covers a broad range of components, but here are the key areas inspected:
1. Lights and Electrical Systems
All lights – including headlights, brake lights, indicators, and fog lights – are checked to ensure they function correctly. The horn, battery condition, and electrical wiring are also inspected.
- Common Failures: Blown bulbs, faulty wiring, and misaligned headlights.
2. Brakes
Brake efficiency and condition are crucial for road safety. The MOT involves testing the performance of the footbrake and handbrake to ensure they meet the required standards.
- Common Failures: Worn brake pads, leaking brake fluid, and inefficient handbrakes.
3. Tyres and Wheels
Tyres are examined for tread depth (the legal minimum is 1.6mm), damage, and general condition. Wheel alignment and secure fittings are also checked.
- Common Failures: Tyres with low tread depth, sidewall damage, or misaligned wheels.
4. Steering and Suspension
The steering and suspension systems are inspected to ensure they are in good working order. This includes the steering rack, power steering components, and shock absorbers.
- Common Failures: Leaking shock absorbers, worn suspension bushes, or excessive play in the steering wheel.
5. Exhaust and Emissions
The exhaust system is checked for leaks, excessive noise, and general condition. Emissions tests ensure the vehicle meets environmental standards and does not emit pollutants above legal limits.
- Common Failures: Exhaust leaks, damaged catalytic converters, and emissions exceeding the threshold.
6. Seatbelts and Safety Equipment
All seatbelts are tested to ensure they lock and retract properly. The MOT also checks airbags, warning lights, and other safety features.
- Common Failures: Faulty seatbelt mechanisms, damaged buckles, or malfunctioning airbags.
7. Windscreen, Wipers, and Washer Fluid
The windscreen is checked for cracks and chips that could obstruct the driver’s view. Wipers must clear the windscreen effectively, and washer fluid levels must be sufficient.
- Common Failures: Worn wiper blades, low washer fluid, and windscreen damage within the driver’s field of vision.
8. Bodywork and Vehicle Structure
The overall condition of the bodywork is inspected for rust, sharp edges, or corrosion that could pose a safety risk. Doors, mirrors, and fuel caps are also checked.
- Common Failures: Corrosion, loose mirrors, and damaged door latches.
9. Fuel System
The fuel system is inspected to ensure there are no leaks or defects. The fuel cap must fit securely, and all visible fuel lines must be intact.
- Common Failures: Fuel leaks or faulty fuel caps.
10. Registration Plates and VIN
The MOT includes checks to ensure the vehicle’s registration plates are visible, in good condition, and meet legal spacing requirements. The VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) must match the records and be clearly displayed.
- Common Failures: Damaged, missing, or incorrectly spaced registration plates.
How to Prepare for Your MOT
To improve the chances of passing your MOT the first time, consider these quick checks before your appointment:
- Check all lights and replace any faulty bulbs.
- Inspect your tyres for tread depth and damage.
- Top up washer fluid and ensure the wipers are functioning properly.
- Listen for unusual noises when braking or steering.
- Clear your windscreen of cracks and chips.
If you spot any issues during your checks, bring your car to Andrews Car Centre for a pre-MOT inspection or minor repairs.
What Happens If Your Car Fails the MOT?
If your car fails the MOT, you’ll receive a VT30 certificate outlining the reasons for failure. You won’t be able to legally drive the vehicle unless the issues are repaired and the car passes a retest.
At Andrews Car Centre, we offer free retests within 10 working days to give you time to address the faults and return for a quick reassessment.
Why Choose Andrews Car Centre for Your MOT in Lincoln?
- Experienced Technicians – Our skilled team ensures thorough inspections and reliable repairs.
- Transparent Pricing – Affordable MOT tests with no hidden fees.
- Fast Turnaround – We complete MOTs efficiently to get you back on the road as soon as possible.
- Free Retests – Return within 10 days for a free retest if your car fails.
Book Your MOT Today
Don’t leave your MOT to the last minute – book in advance and keep your car road-legal. At Andrews Car Centre in Lincoln, we’re committed to providing professional, hassle-free MOT testing at competitive prices.
📞 Call us now or visit our website to schedule your MOT appointment.