The MOT scheme is there to ensure consistent standards. The scheme is monitored by Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA). For a new car, the first MOT test should be done when the vehicle is three years old. Vehicles over three years should have an MOT test carried out on them every year. Non road-worthy cars caused 580 serious injuries and 4777 slight injuries last year. This is why it is so important to make sure that your car is in tiptop condition.



You can take your vehicle in for an MOT test up to one month before the expiry date of your old MOT. If the old MOT certificate is presented, then the new MOT will run from the expiry date of old MOT. Also it should be noted that disassembly of any part of the vehicle is not allowed during an MOT test which means that hidden items such as faulty wheel cylinders cannot be seen or failed.

On passing the MOT test, the vehicle will receive a certificate valid from the date of expiry of your existing MOT certificate. The Department for Transport is considering a change in the laws governing MOT tests. At present, your car needs testing once it is three years old and yearly from then on.

According to the latest figures from the Department of Transport, over 7% of cars fail the MOT because of tyre problems. Typically, bad parking or driving off-road are the most common causes of punctures, look after your tyres and used them sensibly. Tyres must have at least 1.6mm depth of tread. This is the legal minimum, but it's best to change your tyres well before they become this worn. Tyres fail if they have serious cuts, bulges or other damage. The wear on the tyre is checked with a tyre tread depth gauge to ensure compliance. You can buy a tyre gage from your local motoring store so that you can regularly check your own tyres. Not only should tyres be in good condition, but also at the correct pressures. This will make your vehicle more efficient. And always remember to run regular checks on the spear wheel, as this also needs to be kept in good repair.

But having an MOT certificate doesn't guarantee that your car is roadworthy today - tyres wear out, exhausts start to leak, bulbs blow and worse. It is your responsibility to keep your car roadworthy so take your vehicle for regular services are a reputable garage.

If you have an accident and it's found you had failed to keep your car roadworthy, for example excessively worn tyres, and that was a contributory factor in the accident, your insurer will probably refuse to pay up. The police may also show an interest too.

By regularly servicing your vehicle you can reduce the cost of repairs over your vehicle's life. Regular servicing also potentially increases the possibility of the vehicle sailing through its MOT Test.