MOT Checklist and Guide

Keeping your car roadworthy and safe is not just about peace of mind – it’s a legal requirement. That’s where your annual MOT comes in. At RKD Performance, we want to make things as simple and stress-free as possible. Whether you’re preparing for your first MOT or just want to make sure you don’t miss a thing, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

What is an MOT?

The MOT (Ministry of Transport) test is a yearly safety check for most vehicles over three years old. It ensures your car meets the minimum legal standards for road safety and environmental impact. You’ll need a valid MOT certificate to legally drive your vehicle on public roads (unless it’s exempt).

Driving without a valid MOT can result in fines of up to £1,000 and could invalidate your insurance.

When is Your MOT Due?

You can find your MOT due date on your last certificate, the government MOT checker online, or ask your local garage. Most drivers choose to book their MOT up to a month before the expiry date – that way, you keep the same renewal date for next year while staying legal.

What’s Checked During an MOT?

Here’s a quick breakdown of what your tester will be checking:

Lights and Indicators

Headlights, tail lights, brake lights, indicators and number plate lights
All bulbs must work and be the right colour

Tyres and Wheels

Tread depth must be at least 1.6mm across the central three-quarters
No cuts, bulges, or signs of excessive wear

Brakes

Brakes must respond properly and stop the car effectively
Brake pads must not be worn beyond legal limits

Windscreen, Wipers and Washers

Windscreen must be free from major cracks or chips in the driver’s line of sight
Wipers and washers must clean the screen effectively

Mirrors and Doors

All mirrors must be secure and give a clear view
Doors should open and close from inside and outside

Exhaust and Emissions

The exhaust system must be secure and not leaking
Emissions must be within legal limits (especially for diesel vehicles)

Suspension and Steering

Suspension components must be secure and not excessively worn
Steering must operate smoothly and safely

Seatbelts

Must be present, in good condition, and functioning properly

Number Plates

Must be clean, secure, and show the correct registration
Must be the legal font and spacing

Horn, Fuel System, Battery, and Electricals

The horn should be loud and work properly
Fuel system must not leak
Battery should be secure
Wiring must not be loose or exposed

MOT Preparation Tips

Here’s how you can prepare your car for the test:

Clean your car inside and out – A tidy car shows pride of ownership and lets the tester access everything easily
Top up fluids – Screen wash, oil, and brake fluid levels
Check your lights – Get a mate to help you test all bulbs
Inspect tyres – Check the tread and pressure
Windscreen and wipers – Clear any chips and make sure wipers clean properly
Listen for odd noises – Clunks, squeaks or scraping could point to issues

What Happens if Your Car Fails the MOT?

If your car fails, you’ll get a list of reasons (called 'defects'). These are split into:

Dangerous – Can’t be driven until fixed
Major – Must be fixed before a retest
Minor or Advisory – Won’t cause a fail but should be looked at soon

Once repairs are done, your car must pass a retest to get a valid MOT certificate. If repairs are completed within 10 working days, the retest is usually free or discounted.

Why Choose RKD Performance for Your MOT?

At RKD Performance, we’re not just here to tick boxes – we’re here to keep your car running at its best. Here’s what makes us different:

Fast service times – No long waits or booking drama
Experienced technicians – Years of dealership and chain garage expertise
Honest advice – We explain issues in plain English and never upsell for the sake of it
Online booking – Book your MOT quickly through our website
Located in East Yorkshire – Local, trustworthy, and easy to reach

Want to learn more about what we offer? Check out our car servicing options and performance upgrades.

FAQs about MOT Preparation

How early can I get an MOT done? You can get it done up to a month (minus a day) before your current MOT expires and keep the same renewal date.

Can I drive my car if it fails its MOT? Only if no 'dangerous' defects were found and your current MOT hasn’t expired.

How much does an MOT cost? The government cap is £54.85 for cars, but many garages charge less. Contact us at RKD Performance for competitive pricing.

What documents do I need? You don’t need to bring anything – your MOT history is stored online.

How long does an MOT take? Usually 45 minutes to 1 hour. If repairs are needed, it could take longer.

Do I need a full service with an MOT? Not necessarily, but it’s a good idea. An MOT checks roadworthiness, not overall health. We offer service and MOT packages for convenience.

FAQs about RKD Performance

Where is RKD Performance located? We’re based in East Yorkshire and proudly serve the surrounding area.

What services do you offer? From MOTs and servicing to performance upgrades and diagnostics, we’ve got you covered.

How do I book an MOT? Use our simple online booking system or give us a call.

Do you offer same-day MOTs? Yes – depending on availability. Contact us for a quick turnaround.

Are your technicians qualified? Absolutely. Our team has extensive experience and the right qualifications to deliver top-notch service.

Final Thoughts

An MOT might feel like a hassle, but it’s there to keep you and others safe on the road. A little preparation can go a long way in helping your car pass first time. If you’re in East Yorkshire and want an honest, fast, and reliable MOT – RKD Performance is your go-to garage.

Need to book your next MOT? Head to our online booking page now or give us a ring. Let’s keep your car in top shape!

MOT Checklist and Guide by RKD Performance