The facts about your MOT
All vehicles on the road must be kept in a roadworthy condition and every vehicle over three years old must have an MOT certificate.
The MOT test checks that vehicles meet road safety and environmental standards. The first MOT test for a vehicle is required when it turns three years old.
The MOT certificate confirms that, at the time of the test, without dismantling it, the vehicle met the minimum acceptable environmental and road safety standards required by law.
The MOT looks at:
• Body and vehicle structure
Must be free from excessive corrosion or damage in specific areas and there are no sharp edges likely to cause injury
• Fuel system
Has no leaks and the fuel cap fastens and seals securely. The fuel cap needs to be opened, so be sure the key is available
• Exhaust emissions
Need to meet requirements. This is dependent on age and fuel type
• Exhaust system
Is secure and complete, without serious leaks, plus it silences effectively
• Seat belts
Must be checked for type, condition, operation and security. All compulsory seat belts to be in place
• Seats
The front seats are secure. Front and rear seats can be secured in the upright position
• Doors
To latch securely in the closed position. Front doors should open from inside and outside of vehicle. Rear doors may need to be opened to gain access to testable items
• Mirrors
The minimum number are on the vehicle and they are in good condition and fitted securely
• Load security
Boot and tailgate can be secured in the closed position
• Brakes
Condition, operation and performance. Note the removal of the road wheel is part of test
Exhaust replacement or repair
The exhaust system is one of hardest working parts on your vehicle. So when it comes to checking and fitting them, we work just as hard. For a speedy solution book online now. Or just drive in to one of our centres specialising in exhaust repair in Edinburgh, Portobello or Musselburgh – no appointment necessary.
• We carry out a free comprehensive check of your exhaust system, including your catalytic converter to determine what the problem is and what’s causing it
• We’ll talk you through our findings and discuss options
• Before any work begins, we’ll supply a detailed quote
• Our exhausts are supplied by the world’s leading manufacturers and are fitted with comprehensive guarantees at the lowest guaranteed prices
Book Your Free Brake Inspection Online Now
Brakes should always be at their best. If you’re concerned by anything – noises, squeaking brakes, pulling to the left or right or a spongy pedal – there’s one quick solution, and that’s a free test.
- You’ll be looked after our by our dedicated technicians
- They’ll carry out a comprehensive inspection to check all the components are working
- You’ll receive a full report on our findings and receive a quotation for any necessary servicing, repair or replacements
- All brake work is covered by our comprehensive guarantees
It might seem like common sense, but many drivers don’t give the brakes on their vehicles a second thought, even though they are obviously the most important of safety equipment on any vehicle.
The braking system is by its very nature complex and should be checked by an expert every 10,000 miles or at least once a year, and of course, at the start of the winter.
Handy tips
• Awareness
Be aware when you are driving of how the car feels when you apply the brakes
• Soft
If the brake pedal feels soft or goes almost to the floor before engaging, the system should be checked. It could mean the brake-fluid level is low or leaking
• Shaking
Shaking or vibration in the pedal or steering wheel may indicate that the brake discs are in need of replacement.
• Squealing
Squealing may indicate that the pads are wearing thin.
• Grinding
Grinding or metal-on-metal can be a sign of serious problems. If this continues you need to replace the brake discs as well as brake pads.
• Handbrake
To check the handbrake is in good working order pull it while you’re on an incline. If it takes more than a few clicks before the car is secure the callipers/drums need to be professionally checked.
Is servicing necessary?
Having your vehicle serviced regularly is key to ensuring it remains in top condition and reduces the risk of a breakdown.
Many people use their vehicles on a daily basis and rely on them for work but won’t have them serviced on a regular basis. A regular service could be the difference between a small repair and a serious fault.
Although engines have moved on dramatically in the last 25 years, you still need to ensure your vehicle is correctly maintained in order to keep it in good working order.
It is highly recommended you have a regular, professional service. This ranges from a simple oil change to a full service check of the vehicle. The service booklet will give the manufacturer’s recommended service schedule. Although you should have your car serviced regularly, there are times when it is especially important. For example, if you are about to embark on a long journey or if you have had it off the road for an extended period.
It is important to go to a reputable garage in order to get a high-quality service from properly trained mechanics who know what they are doing and also care about their customers.
