Your Guide to MOT Testing

Whether you're booking your first MOT or just need a reminder of what’s involved, here’s our rundown of everything you need to know.

An MOT (which stands for Ministry of Transport) test is a yearly inspection that checks whether your car meets the minimum safety and environmental standards required by UK law. It covers dozens of important parts, including:

• Brakes
• Tyres and wheels
• Lights and indicators
• Windscreen wipers
• Suspension
• Exhaust emissions

It’s important to note that an MOT isn’t a substitute for regular servicing. It’s a basic legal check and not a full health check of your car's mechanical condition.

You must have your car’s first MOT by the third anniversary of its registration. After that, it's required every year.

You can book your MOT up to one month minus a day before your current MOT certificate expires - and keep your original expiry date. This means you don’t lose any time by testing early.

➡️ Need a reminder? Check your MOT expiry date here.

What Happens During an MOT Test?

During the test, our certified MOT testers at Europit will inspect your vehicle using a detailed checklist provided by the DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency).

Some of the key checks include:

·         Tyres: Minimum tread depth of 1.6mm, with no visible damage
Brakes: Efficient braking performance and no leaks
Lights: Headlights, brake lights and indicators must all work
Windscreen and wipers: Clear visibility without major cracks
Exhaust emissions: Emissions must be within legal limits
Steering and suspension: No excessive wear or damage

If your car passes, you’ll receive a pass certificate (VT20). If it fails, you’ll be issued a failure document (VT30) - but don't panic. Our friendly team will call you to advise on repairs and retests quickly and affordably.

Want to boost your chances of passing first time? Here are the top reasons cars fail their MOT:

• Lights and indicators (blown bulbs are very common)
• Worn tyres with tread below 1.6mm
• Brake issues or worn pads
• Windscreen wiper problems
• Screenwash not topped up
  
  ✅ Europit tip: It’s good practice to carry out a few basic checks yourself before you bring your car in for its MOT test. If you can, replace any bulbs where needed, top up your screenwash and check your tyres. Click here to find out an easy way to check your tyre tread depth – using only a 20p coin!

At Europit we believe in transparent and honest pricing with no hidden charges.

• Class 4 MOTs (standard cars) at competitive rates
• Special offers available when you combine your MOT and service

➡️ View our MOT page and book in here.

Why Choose Europit for Your MOT?

As a family-run business with over 20 years of experience, we pride ourselves on delivering genuine service and expert advice.

Here’s why customers across Essex and Suffolk trust Europit:

·         DVSA-approved MOT testers
Friendly and professional service
8 convenient locations across Essex and Suffolk (click here to find your nearest branch)
Free retest if repairs are carried out with us
Honest advice with no unnecessary upselling

Don’t leave your MOT to the last minute. Book early for the best time and location to suit you, and to avoid unnecessary stress. Whether you’re in Clacton, Colchester, Ipswich or beyond, Europit is your trusted local MOT centre.