MOT Testing

What is an MOT?

An MOT test is an annual inspection that is required by law on all vehicles in the UK that are older than 3 years. The test follows a criteria set by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) to determine whether your vehicle is safe for Britains roads. A whole range of vehicle safety checks are carried out by an MOT test centre, by a qualified MOT Tester. During the MOT test, the MOT tester will perform a comprehensive inspection on areas of the vehicle, such as lights, tyres, seatbelts and emissions - a full list of what is checked in an MOT can be found here. An MOT is not the same as having your vehicle serviced and the MOT test does not check the mechanical condition of the vehicle.

How often do I need an MOT?

An MOT is required by law every year, for all vehicles 3 years or older (some vehicles may require these sooner!). It is your responsibility as the driver to ensure that there is a valid MOT certificate for the vehicle. You can take your vehicle (present for test) within one month of the current certificate expiring.

How Long is an MOT Valid For?

An MOT certificate is valid for 12 months, and you can take your vehicle to obtain a new MOT certificate within one month of the current certificate expiring. The MOT test is a test of the vehicle on that particular day and time, and does not check or gaurantee the mechanical condition of the vehicle for 12 months.

What if my MOT has expired?

Not a problem! If your MOT has expired, simply call us on 01226 731311 and we will take note of your details. Once you have called and logged your details with us, you are then permitted to drive to the test station only, for the purposes of having an MOT test carried out. If you are to drive your vehicle on British Roads and the vehicle is 3 years or older an MOT is required by law and you could be fined up to £1,000 for driving without an MOT.

What do I need to get an MOT?

To have an MOT performed on your vehicle, all you need to do is bring your vehicle down to the test station within one month of the current certificate expiring, and funds to pay for the MOT test. MOT tests at Barnsley Auto Centre are currently £35, but call Paul on 01226 731311 to see what offers we have on MOT & servicing packages!

How long does an MOT take?

Typically, an MOT test will take between 45 minutes to an hour - although this can vary. You are more than welcome to leave your vehicle with us, and return once the MOT test has been completed, or wait in our reception area.

What is covered in an MOT?

An MOT is an assessment based on the condition of the vehicle on the day and passing an MOT does not guarantee the condition of the vehicle 6 months later. If the vehicle passes the MOT, tester will provide you with a pass certificate. They will also separately list and inform you of any 'minor' (previously known as 'advisory') items that will require attention in the near future so you can keep an eye on them. If the vehicle fails, you will receive a list of the 'major' or 'dangerous' faults present that will need to be rectified before an MOT pass certificate would be issued. If these are easy fixes and can be addressed without your car leaving the garage, you may be entitled to a free re-test.