MOT History Check
Get a full MOT history check of any vehicle
What is an MOT?
An MOT (Ministry of Transport) history check is an annual vehicle inspection which is carried out by an authorised examiner on every road-going vehicle over three years old to ensure the vehicle meets certain safety and environmental standards in the United Kingdom.
What can MOT history tell me about a vehicle?
An MOT history check is an important step to take when considering purchasing a used vehicle, as it can provide valuable insights into a vehicle’s condition and help you make an informed decision.
An MOT history check provides a detailed record of each MOT test carried out on a vehicle, highlighting any advisory notices or failures issued, which can give an indication of how the vehicle has been kept and its overall condition.
What happens if my car fails its MOT test?
If your vehicle fails the MOT test, you will be provided with a list of the defects that need to be repaired before the vehicle can pass. Once the repairs have been made, you will need to have the vehicle retested to obtain a new MOT certificate.
Can I drive a car with an expired MOT?
You cannot legally drive a car with an expired MOT certificate on public roads in the UK unless you’re on the way to a pre-booked MOT test appointment at an authorised MOT test centre. Even then, the car must be roadworthy and safe to drive. It is a legal requirement to have a valid MOT certificate for any car that is more than three years old.
What’s the risk of driving without a valid MOT?
If you are caught driving a car without a valid MOT certificate, you could be fined up to £1,000, and your car could be impounded. If you drive a vehicle deemed ‘dangerous’ by an MOT test, you can be fined up to £2,500, be banned from driving and receive 3 penalty points. Additionally, if you are involved in an accident, your insurance may be invalidated, which could result in significant financial costs.
How early can I book an MOT test for my car?
To ensure that your car is roadworthy and safe, it is important to get an MOT test carried out annually before the current certificate expires. You can take your vehicle for an MOT up to one month before the current certificate expires, and the new certificate will be valid for 12 months from the date of expiry of the previous certificate.
Does a valid MOT mean a car is mechanically sound?
No, an MOT certificate is not a guarantee of the mechanical condition of a vehicle. An MOT test isn’t the same as having a vehicle serviced and doesn’t check its general mechanical condition. It is the registered keeper’s responsibility to ensure that a vehicle is regularly maintained and in a safe and roadworthy condition at all times.
