Auto MOT test verification and mobile mechanic Reading, UK 2023: Headlights and indicators: front, rear, headlights (main beam and dipped), hazard lights and indicators. If any aren’t working, first check for broken bulbs and replace them. Brake lights: ask another person to check the rear brake lights come on when you press the brake pedal. Tyres: check all the tyres have at least the minimum legal tread depth of 1.6mm, or they’ll be marked as an MOT ‘fail’. This can easily be done with a 20p coin – see the diagram on the Tyre Safe website. Check for any damage such as splits in the tread, bulges or cuts in the sidewalls. Also check the tyre pressure is correct – the car’s manual will list the right pressure and they might also be on the sidewall of the tyre itself – and increase it at a petrol station if necessary. Searching for Cheap Car Service Reading or other MOT services services? Any chip or crack in your windscreen that is larger than 40mm will result in a failed MOT. On the drivers’ side the allowance is even smaller; any damage larger than 10mm in the area covered by your driver-side wiper will result in a failure. As well checking your windscreen for faults, it is also important to assess the wipers. Your wipers and washers should be in a suitable condition to give you a clear view of the road ahead. If your wipers are splitting or your washer feed is blocked, this will require attention prior to your MOT. You can fail your MOT for having no screen wash so make sure that the bottle is topped up!
Check the fluids: There are several fluids that should be kept at the appropriate levels to help keep your car running properly. According to Popular Mechanics, you or your mechanic should check: Engine oil; Coolant; Power steering fluid; Brake fluid; Transmission fluid. A leak with any of these fluids can affect the way your car drives. If you spot a leak, you may be able to identify the fluid by its color. This can help you and your mechanic determine where the leak is coming from. It can also help speed up the repair process.
IHS Automotive reports that Americans are keeping their cars and light trucks for longer than previously reported – an average of 11.5 years – an increase attributed to both improved vehicle reliability and economic factors. With 84 percent of vehicles on the road in need of a service or new part, YourMechanic surveyed hundreds of mechanics from more than 30 states to compile the top five tips car owners can follow as a guide to help extend the life of their vehicle.
Yes, it’s your car’s bible! Knowing where to find information quickly can help in identifying causes when trouble arises. You may even be able to avoid a trip to the auto mechanic in the first place if you discover that your “problem” stemmed from not understanding your car’s controls. Beyond knowing the make and model of your vehicle, it also helps to have the specific trim level on hand for the service technician, as that often identifies the engine size and configuration, transmission and other included features that vary across the model line. Be aware of your exterior paint and interior color codes in case body or upholstery repair is necessary. Keep your vehicle identification number (VIN) available, as this code will likely be required when scheduling service.
As well as using the correct lettering style and spacing, your number plates need to be clean and easy to read from a distance. Modified number plates, damaged number plates or otherwise illegal plates will fail the MoT. If you own a diesel car fitted with a diesel particulate filter (DPF), it could be given a Major defect and automatically fail the MoT test if it emits “visible smoke of any colour” during metered checks. Testers will also inspect DPFs closely for signs of removal or tampering, awarding a Major defect and failing the car if foul play is detected. Testers must refuse to test any car where the “DPF canister has clearly been cut open and re-welded” unless the owner “can show evidence that there was a valid reason to cut it open, such as for filter cleaning.”
Some people think you will void your warranty if you don’t service your car at a manufacturer’s dealership. However, that’s not the case. Independent garages, specialists and fast-fits are all capable of servicing your car without invalidating your warranty, provided they fit manufacturer-branded or OE parts and use up-to-date equipment and technical information to work on your car. The European Union’s Block Exemption Regulations, which were created in 1995 and apply until 31 May 2023, allow independent garages, traders and organisations to have the same access to the manufacturer technical data, and repair and servicing information as dealerships, allowing them to work correctly on all cars. They’re likely to be replaced with similar UK-specific rules that will apply after the EU rules expire. See even more information at mot-centre.com.
Do you hate the inconvenience of having your car serviced, having to take a day off work to bring your vehicle in, and then waiting for it to be completed? We always put the customer first, that’s why we offer a flexible car servicing service. We can collect your car, and the deliver it back to you when the service is completed. We can even arrange for a taxi to collect you when your car is ready. We do that for MOTs as well.
Changing the oil and checking the fluids is something your car cannot go without. Depending on your car and how often you drive, most cars need an oil change between every 30,000 to 50,000 miles. Making it a habit of changing the oil will extend the life of your vehicle and save you money on costly repairs. During routine oil changes, your mechanic can also check to make sure all other fluids in your car are topped off.
How much does an MOT cost? The Vehicle and Operator Services Agency sets the maximum fee official test centres can charge for an MOT. It’s currently £54.85 for cars and motor caravans and £29.65 for motorbikes, but many garages charge less than this – sometimes up to 50% less. The horn; Operates correctly and is of a suitable type for your vehicle.