A well-maintained vehicle is a high-performing one. Besides, you also enjoy the benefits of easy MOT testing. Regular services mean that your car is thoroughly tested for any potential safety hazards. So you can repair any minor issues before they lead to catastrophic situations on the road. But, before enjoying the benefits, you must be aware of the major maintenance that must be essentially included in your Car Service Coventry. Crucial parts such as brakes, suspension, batteries, electrical system, and many such components when serviced regularly will increase your car’s overall value and lifespan. Along with an overall increase in your vehicle’s efficiency, you also enjoy successful MOT testing without any hassles. Failing and retesting the MOT only results in wasting more of your time, money, and efforts. However, timely repairs and services will naturally enable smooth functioning of your car’s components, increasing the chances of a successful MOT. Read ahead to find out what you can do to avoid MOT failure and essential checks to include in your car servicing. 

What does the MOT test include? 

MOT stands for Ministry of Transport, the UK Government department that started this test. The test is significant in testing your vehicle’s safety, exhaust emissions and roadworthiness. Driving your vehicle in the UK, without this certificate, can get you punished for breaking the law. 

The Ministry of Transport, which was the former name of Department for Transport, controls the transport network of the UK, including vehicle emissions, and the future of transport and transport related security as well as civil matters. The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) issues the MOT certificate necessary for driving your vehicle in the state.  

Some major amendments in 2018, changed the reports that are provided during an MOT. Previously, your vehicle would either ‘pass’ or ‘fail’, but now your vehicle could get around five reports for its MOT Coventry, Passed that means your car follows the legal standards; passed with advisory is provided for potential issues; passed with minor faults means not all safety and environmental standards are being followed; a failed report for major faults; and finally, a failed report for high-risk faults. 

Essential pre-MOT checks for accurate testing

As a car owner or driver, preparing your car for the MOT requires some checks, repairs, and services for higher chances of passing the test. Follow this checklist, before the final test, for a quick inspection of your car:  

• Clean your car from the inside and outside. Clear out any garbage from the boot and invest in a car wash before the test, so that your tester does not refuse to carry out the test, due to a dirty car. 
• Ensure good condition and proper functioning of the windscreen wiper. 
• Check proper working of all the lights. To confirm this, you can take help from a friend or family member, so they can stay outside the car and check the proper functioning of the lights.
• Use the 20p test to inspect your tyre tread’s depth. Maintain the legal range of 1.6 mm to 3 mm. Maintain proper inflation too. 
• All fluid levels, that is, brake fluid, oil, and screenwash, should be topped up. 
• Check appropriate functioning of the horn. 
• Ensure the correct position of all the mirrors, and that they are secure and intact. This is also essential for your safety on the road. 
• Clean your number plates before the test, as an unreadable number plate could lead to failure. 
• The Vehicle Identification Number, abbreviated as VIN, must match your car’s V5C logbook to the one on your car’s body. 

Vital maintenance checks to include in your next servicing

The next time you visit a centre for car servicing Coventry, include these five key areas for a better road safety, smoother vehicle, and an easy MOT: 

• Windscreens: Any cracks or chips on your windscreen could result in an MOT failure. Remember that a faulty windscreen not only includes damage to the screen, but also things reducing visibility, such as faulty windscreen wipers, air fresheners, or sat-navs. 
• Tyres: Check your tyres regularly for worn-out treads. Your regular maintenance must also include an inspection of your tyre for poor alignment, improper inflation, and any cuts or lumps. 
• Brakes: Look out for signs of a faulty braking system. Squeaking or grinding sounds means a worn-out brake pad; vehicle pulling to one side while braking also indicates an underlying issue with the brakes; and, if your vehicle does not immediately stop rolling on a hill when you applied your handbrakes, it means they need some adjustments too. Consult with your technician for these symptoms, while your car servicing. 
• Lighting: Your vehicle’s lights and indicators deserve attention too. Check if all of your lights are working properly. The indicators are flashing appropriately, the number plate light is functioning, and the brake lights are working on pressing the brakes. Mist over plastic lenses is quite common, while cracks in your lights could lead to hazardous situations. 
• Dashboard warning lights: Crucial indicators for any potential issues with your vehicle, these warning lights are significant for your safety. Vital warning lights include Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Stability control (ESP), Safety restraint systems or seatbelts, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS). 

If your car’s MOT Coventry is due in the next few days, this might be the right time to get it serviced thoroughly. This ensures your car’s overall diagnosis so you could easily get your MOT renewal, without any restests or hassles. So, book your appointment today!