Automotive

Know these Things before You Head Over for Your Next MOT

Posted on Author Rashmi

The number of car accidents in the UK has gone down consistently each year for the last five decades or so. Automobile experts and independent reviewers attribute it partly to the MOT test that is now held every year to ascertain the roadworthiness of a vehicle.

How has MOT changed the road dynamics in Britain?

If you are a sceptic, maybe some cold hard data will drive the point home. Consider this – the year 1960 witnessed 6,970 fatalities. It was on this year that the MOT was implemented. At that time, this test was inconsistent at best and had to be taken only once every 10 years, thereby earning it the moniker, the Ten Year test.

Naturally, its effects were not evident immediately. 1970 witnessed 7,499 road fatalities, which prompted the authorities to sit up and tighten the noose. Stricter MOT regulations were implemented, and it was made an annual affair. The results were drastic and encouraging.

There were 5,953 road fatalities in 1980, 5,217 in 1990, 3,409 in 2000 and 1857 in 2010. Admittedly, the change has been gradual, and there are many other factors at play, but it’s a step in the right direction.

The road ahead for motorists

Motorists in Bristol and beyond must ensure that they clear their MOT test for their cars to remain roadworthy. There are a few things that you can do before your MOT in Bristol to maximise your chances of clearing the test at first attempt.

  • Check the inflation pressure on all four car tyres. It has been included in the test from 2018. Both over and under inflation will draw negative points.
  • Check the tread depth before your test. Tyres with a tread depth lower than 1.6mm should be replaced with new ones before taking an MOT in Bristol.
  • Make sure that there are no dents on the body of your car.
  • Always visit authorised garages for the test. You may visit the official website of DVSA to find an MOT test centre in your area. Motorists in and around Bristol may visit reputable garages like Sam’s Tyres for the job. Not only do they perform an accurate and timely MOT test in Bristol, but they also repair any faults that may arise out of it. They are proficient in all types of car repair and service such as wheel alignment and balancing, suspension and batteries repair and replacements.
  • Make sure to acquaint yourself with any changes in the MOT regulations. For example, the fault categories were changed in 2018 as were the guidelines regarding the DPF on a diesel car.
  • Lastly, never miss your MOT due date. You can take it up to one month before your current certificate expires but do not exceed the one-year time frame under any circumstances. You’ll attract fines and penalty points against your license if you do.

Keeping these points will ensure that you clear your MOT test Bristol with flying colours. Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

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