When it comes to keeping our cars safe on the road, the MOT test is a gold standard.
That annual ritual has saved countless lives and spotted potentially expensive issues long before they became too big to fix. But the MOT doesn’t test for everything – and it’s certainly not a service! So, are there any important safety and performance issues that slip under the radar?
Let’s find out…
Under the bonnet
While the MOT test covers essential components like brakes, lights, tyres and the likes, it doesn’t look into the inner workings of your engine. The MOT emissions test is about as far as it goes with engine health (well, it’s more of a public health issue really).
But while the MOT test includes an emissions check to ensure compliance with environmental regulations, it doesn’t assess the overall health of your vehicle’s exhaust system. A quick assessment will look for problems like leaks, cracks, corrosion or damage that can contribute to increased emissions, noise and environmental pollution. But performance? That’s not safety-critical.
Neither is engine performance and health, which is not typically part of the MOT test. The problems that can signal underlying issues with fuel systems, ignition systems or even the engine itself are not under the MOT test’s remit. Regular maintenance and servicing are the only ways to keep on top of these problems before they escalate.
Drivetrain
One of the most significant areas of a vehicle that are not assessed in an MOT test is the condition of the clutch and gearbox. Again, they are not safety-critical, and that’s the core focus of the MOT – safety.
And while the condition of the tyres fitted to your vehicle (along with their size, type and tread depth) are checked in an MOT – spare tyres are not checked. Bear this in mind if you’re lucky enough to have a car fitted with a spare, as it might be pointless if it’s in a bad way. Be sure to check it yourself separately.
The MOT will also exclude any examination of the condition of aftermarket accessories, unless they fall within the main test components – so an aftermarket exhaust would be checked for condition and will affect the emissions components of the test, but engine mods would not.
Electrical systems
Modern cars are packed with tech. This is a good thing, and a bad thing in equal measure… Infotainment systems, sensors, driver assist – you name it, these are all amazing mod cons, but they do introduce a level of complexity never before seen in cars.
On top of this, the MOT test doesn’t include a comprehensive evaluation of those complex systems. Besides lights, wipers and wired-in safety features, the MOT doesn’t test for much more. Things like faulty wiring or malfunctioning sensors may not be picked up during the test. As cars become more technologically advanced, it’s becoming increasingly important to get your vehicle’s electrical systems checked by qualified technicians.
Fluids
The MOT test doesn’t specifically address fluid levels or leaks, beyond a cursory visual inspection. A really obvious leak is going to be noted of course, but the tester isn’t going to check around all hoses and lines for problems. If it’s all working on the day of the test, it’ll pass.
But don’t assume it’s all hunky-dory. Checking engine oil, coolant, brake fluid and other vital fluids should be part of your regular maintenance routines beyond your MOT.
Drawing the line
The MOT test serves as an essential safety check for vehicles. But it’s really important to recognise its boundaries.
Beyond the MOT, vehicle maintenance and performance require attention regularly. Stay on top of your car’s needs with simple vigilance; and if you notice something’s wrong, don’t wait for your MOT test to find out – get to your local garage!
Book your MOT now
Book your MOT test in Eastleigh today, with We Only Do MOTs. We promise to provide an impartial, independent MOT to everyone – and will carry out most minor repairs for free.
Send your message to enquiries@onlydomots.co.uk or call us on 023 8064 7180
