
If your vehicle is new, then it is important to know when the time is for its first MOT test. MOT is crucial to assessing the roadworthiness of a vehicle. It is a test that all vehicles have to undergo. As a responsible car owner, it is important to make sure that your vehicle is roadworthy. For that reason, it becomes important to schedule the MOT Centre Warwick timely manner. If your vehicle is brand new, then knowing when your car needs its first MOT might be a little confusing for you. Here you will find out the answers.
What is MOT?
The MOT or the Ministry of Transport test is a compulsory test for all vehicles in the UK. It is a yearly test that is conducted on the vehicles to evaluate the functionality of their crucial components. The parts that are included in the MOT test are the brakes, lights, exhaust, suspension, and overall bodywork of the vehicle. It is a test that assesses and ensures that your vehicle is in compliance with the safety and environmental standards of the UK government. If your vehicle does not pass the MOT test, then it will not be able to ride on the roads of the UK legally and will be subject to fines and penalties. Therefore, to avoid any such consequences, you must register for your vehicle’s MOT each year on time.
When Does a Car Need Its First MOT?
You must know when your vehicle needs its first MOT test. To avoid fines and penalties, and to assure the overall safety of your vehicle. This not only helps avoid fines but also assures that your vehicle is roadworthy enough. If your vehicle is brand new, then its first MOT happens when it becomes three years old. Therefore, the first MOT test on the vehicle is conducted after it crosses three years of age. Vehicles below three years of age are barred from the MOT test and therefore are allowed to run on the road without an MOT pass certificate. It is because the components of the new car are assumed to be in their best shape initially, and such a vehicle is less likely to become a hazard to road safety.
Once your vehicle turns three years old, it has to take its yearly MOT test each year to ensure its continued roadworthiness. The first MOT test should be scheduled on the same date as the vehicle's registration, after three years. It means that your vehicle should take and pass its first MOT before it reaches four years of age. If you miss this 3-year mark, then your vehicle will be subjected to fines, and its insurance may also get cancelled.
How to Maintain Your Vehicle Before Its First MOT?
Your vehicle should not be given care and maintenance only to pass its MOT test. You must maintain your vehicle even before its first MOT test. Here's how to take care of your vehicle before its first MOT test.
Early Detection of Faults
You should not get your vehicle inspected for faults just before the time for its first MOT test comes. Even if your vehicle is brand new, it may show signs of faults such as unusual vibrations or strange noises coming from the vehicle. If your vehicle shows any such signs, then make sure you get the faults corrected from a reliable car service provider. Some service providers also provide free inspection of the brand new vehicle to detect issues in the parts, such as the tyres, lights, brakes, suspension, exhaust, steering, and other crucial components.
Different Types of Vehicles
Not all vehicles are allowed to undergo an MOT test only after three years of age, as some have to take this test before the year's mark. Vehicles such as taxis, ambulances, or other types of vehicles may have to take the test before they turn three years old for safety concerns. For this, you have to consult with the MOT test centre to know when your vehicle is due for its first MOT test.
Timely Vehicle Service
Timely service of the vehicle is also important, as it helps ensure the optimal functioning of the vehicle. If you service your vehicle frequently, you are preventing hidden faults from developing into major concerns. This helps ensure that your vehicle stays in good condition before its first MOT test and clears the test easily on its first attempt.