First MOT for a New Car

A brand new car is an exciting prospect to acquire, however, the thoughts of an MOT looming over your shoulder can always dampen that excitement.

Understanding what to expect, when to book, and how to prepare for your car's first MOT can save you time, money, and stress.

There may be many questions that come to your head when getting a new car regarding your first MOT with the vehicle, which will be answered in this article today.

What is an MOT?

An MOT (Ministry of Transport) is an annual inspection of all road vehicles in the United Kingdom. These are mandatory across every single road vehicle.

It ensures that your car meets the minimum safety and environmental standards required by law. While your new car may feel perfect, it’s essential to recognize that wear and tear over time can impact its performance and safety.

The MOT test is designed to catch any issues before they become serious problems, ensuring that your car remains roadworthy.

Failing to obtain a valid MOT certificate can have serious consequences. Not only is it illegal to drive without one, but it can also result in fines, points on your license, and even the invalidation of your car insurance.

So, understanding when and how to get your first MOT is crucial for every car owner.

When Does a New Car Need Its First MOT?

The first time a brand new car will need its first MOT is 36 months after the vehicle has been registered. The reason for it not being annual is the fact that the vehicles components and parts have not been used.

To avoid any stress, it is recommended book the new car’s MOT a few weeks before the three-year mark, perhaps making a note of the date to remind yourself three years down the line.

This will give you ample time to address any potential issues that might arise during the MOT test.

What Should You Check Before Taking Your Car an MOT?

Preparing your car for its first MOT doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. While modern cars are built to high standards, there are a few simple checks you can do to increase the likelihood of passing the test on the first go.

Tyres: Check that your car tyres have sufficient tread depth, which in the UK is a 1.6mm legal requirement. Also ensure your tyres are free from any cuts or bulges.

Lights: Ensure all your lights, including headlights, indicators, and brake lights, are working correctly. Faulty lights are one of the most common reasons for MOT failures.

Brakes: Listen for any unusual noises when braking and ensure your car stops effectively. Worn brake pads can cause an MOT failure.

Wipers and Windscreen: Make sure your wipers are in good condition and the windscreen is free of any significant cracks or chips.

Fluids: Check that all essential fluids, such as engine oil, brake fluid, and windscreen washer fluid, are topped up.

By taking care of these basic maintenance tasks, you’ll reduce the chances of your car failing its first MOT.

What Happens If Your Car Fails Its First MOT?

Despite your best efforts, there’s always a chance that your car might fail its first MOT. If this happens, don’t panic.

The MOT test centre will provide you with a ‘refusal of an MOT test certificate’ (VT30), which outlines the reasons for the failure.

The next step is to address the issues identified in the test. Whether it’s replacing a worn-out tire, fixing faulty brakes, or repairing a cracked windscreen, it’s important to get these problems sorted out as soon as possible.

Your local garage/test centre will fix the problems in hand to ensure your vehicle is fit for the roads.

Once the repairs have been made, your car will need to undergo a retest to ensure it now meets the required standards.

Can You Drive a Car That Has Failed Its MOT?

One of the most frequent concerns for drivers is whether they can still drive their car if it fails the MOT.

Legally, you can drive your car to a pre-booked MOT retest or to a garage for repairs, even if the MOT has expired, provided that the car is roadworthy.

However, if your car has failed its MOT, it is illegal to be driving unless you are on your way to a pre-booked retest or vehicle repair.

How Much Does the First MOT Cost?

The cost of an MOT test is something every vehicle owner should be aware of. The maximum fee for a standard car MOT is currently set at £54.85, with a motorcycle’s MOT being priced at £29.65.

Many garages, however, offer discounts, particularly if you book a garage service at the same time.

For the convenience and potential pricing factor, we would recommend to go through your local garage.

How Can You Check the Due Date for Your First MOT?

Keeping track of your MOT due date is essential, especially as driving without a valid MOT can lead to serious penalties.

You can check the due date for your car’s first MOT by looking at your registration certificate (V5C) or by using the government’s online MOT history checker.

This tool allows you to enter your car’s registration number and view its MOT history, including the due date for the next test.

Final Thoughts

Your car’s first MOT is an important milestone in your journey as a vehicle owner.

By understanding when it’s due, how to prepare, and what to expect, you can ensure the process goes smoothly and avoid any unnecessary stress.

Remember, the MOT isn’t just a legal requirement – it’s a vital check that keeps you and other road users safe.

So, take the time to prepare, stay on top of your car’s maintenance, and you’ll be well on your way to passing your car’s first MOT.