Get Your Car Ready for a MOT With These Top Tips

UK cars must be tested at the end of their third year, and on a yearly basis after that. You can have your car tested up to one month before expiry. Failing a MOT is something that will likely happen to all of us at some point. However there are certain things you can do to lessen the chances of failing your MOT, and at least make it a less costly experience if you do fail.

1. Tyres

Make sure all the tyres are inflated to the correct pressure, and there is at least 1.6mm of tread across the tyre. Ensure there are no lumps, bulges or cut areas.

2. Bulbs

Check the bulbs in all lights and replace any bulbs - front position lights (side lights), headlights, rear lights, rear registration plate light, rear fog lamps, headlamps, brake lights and indicator lights.

3. Registration Plate

Check it is not cracked, firmly fastened and not obscured. Also ensure the letters are of the correct size and spacing.

4. Washers and wipers

Fill your washer bottle yourself to save money having your garage re-fill it. If windscreen wipers are smearing, replacements can be easily bought and replaced yourself. A smeary windscreen wiper could be enough to fail an MOT. Also check that windscreen jets are not blocked - this can occur from dirt or wax polish which can either be blown out with compressed air or a small needle or pin.

5. Windscreen

Chips in the windscreen are a big no no! In an area in front of the driver a chip cannot be bigger than 10mm, in other areas swept by the wipers that damage cannot be more than 40mm. Many insurers will cover windscreen chips so be sure to look into this before taking your car for its MOT.

6. Emissions

Finally, your vehicle will be tested for harmful emissions. On both petrol and diesel engines that are a little tired, changing the oil and the fuel / air and oil filters will help your engine to keep within the pass threshold.

7. Seats and seatbelts

Seats must be firmly secured in place. Hold the top of the back-rest and make a rocking motion from side to side firmly to check for weakness. For the seatbelt, grab the belt firmly then make a sharp pull on the belt, it should lock and prevent you from pulling further.

8. Bodywork

Bodywork should be in reasonable condition without any sharp edges which may cause injury to pedestrians. Both front and rear bumpers must be secure with end caps in place. All doors must be able to be opened from both inside and out.

Following these simple steps will help you to pass your MOT with flying colours and save you money on any repairs that do need to be made to get your car back on the road. The more items you take care of yourself the less you will be paying a mechanic in labour costs so be sure to put the time in prior to your MOT to save money in the long run.

Source: http://ezinearticles.com/6265832

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