MOT Checklist: What We Check (and How to Avoid a Fail)
An MOT can feel like a bit of an unknown — but it’s really just a structured safety and roadworthiness inspection that every eligible vehicle needs once it reaches a certain age. At Blackhurst Garages in Whitchurch, we carry out MOT testing for cars (class 4) and vans (class 7), with experienced technicians and the right equipment to inspect your vehicle properly.
If you’d like to book in for an MOT, you can start here: Book MOT.
When does my car need an MOT?
In the UK, most vehicles need an MOT every year once the vehicle is 3 years old.
What we check during an MOT (the key areas)
MOT tests follow DVSA standards and focus on safety- and emissions-related components. Here’s how that typically breaks down:
1) Lights, indicators and visibility
We’ll check items like:
headlights (operation and aim), brake lights, indicators and hazards
number plates (condition/visibility)
windscreen condition, washers and wipers
These are some of the most common “quick wins” you can sort before test day.
2) Tyres and wheels
We’ll inspect:
tread depth and tyre condition (cuts, bulges, uneven wear)
tyre pressures (where applicable)
wheels for damage and security
If you’ve had knocks to kerbs or potholes recently, it’s worth keeping an eye out for uneven tyre wear.
3) Brakes and brake components
Brakes are a big part of the MOT. We’ll check:
brake performance and balance
brake lines/hoses for leaks or damage
brake pads/discs condition (where visible)
4) Steering and suspension
We’ll look for:
excessive play, knocks or wear
condition of key components (where visible)
shock absorbers and springs
5) Exhaust and emissions
Depending on the vehicle and fuel type, the MOT includes emissions checks and an inspection of the exhaust system.
6) Seatbelts, doors and general safety items
We’ll check things like:
seatbelt condition and operation
door latches/hinges and secure closure
horn operation
Our added “peace of mind” checks
Alongside the MOT itself, we provide a complimentary 30-point safety check with every service and MOT.
We also offer various service packages—take a look at the checks we run as part of these packages, to better understand what’s inspected around the vehicle.
If your car fails: retests and what happens next
If your vehicle fails, you may be eligible for a partial retest (free or reduced fee) depending on the circumstances and timings.
Key DVSA rules to know:
If the vehicle stays at the test centre for repair and is retested within 10 working days, only a partial retest is needed and there’s no fee.
If you take the vehicle away and return it to the same test centre within 10 working days, a partial retest may apply and you may be charged a partial retest fee.
Quick tips to improve your chance of passing first time
Before you come in, it’s worth doing a 5-minute check:
all exterior lights working (and clean)
tyres above the legal tread and in good condition
windscreen washers/wipers working and topped up
number plates clean and secure
dashboard warning lights addressed (where needed)
Book your MOT in Whitchurch
If you’re due an MOT, we’re here to help — with a friendly team and a service centre set up to keep things straightforward. At Blackhurst, we also offer helpful extras like a complimentary reminder service for MOTs and services, plus options such as courtesy vehicles (subject to availability).