Do Wheels Get Removed During an MOT?
The MOT test is something that every vehicle over three years old needs annually. But how much do you really know about the testing process? Do you know what parts of your vehicle are checked, and why? Do you imagine that parts of your vehicle, such as the wheels, for example, are removed and inspected as part of the testing process?
Nothing gets removed
In fact, MOT testers aren’t allowed to remove any part of the vehicle they’re testing, so you can rest assured that your wheels stay firmly in place throughout. But that doesn’t mean that the condition of your tyres passes unnoticed. That’s far from the case.
You don’t have to have top-of-the-range tyres from leading brands such as Pirelli, Michelin and Bridgestone, to get your vehicle through its MOT test successfully. But years of experience tell us that that there are some problems, such as splitting, cracking or bulging of the tyre wall, that will require attention, followed by a retest.
But even aside from clearly visible signs of damage, the MOT test requires a thorough examination of your car’s tyres. At least three-quarters of the tyre’s tread area should have a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm, which is something that you can easily check yourself, with the aid of a 20 pence coin. Experts recommend a minimum 3mm to avoid compromising handling.
You can also help your tyres to perform to their optimum ability by keeping an eye on your tyre pressures. You’ll find this information printed in your vehicle’s handbook, and it’s also sometimes marked on your car’s door jamb. If in doubt, our experienced tyre fitters will be more than happy to help and advise you.
Testing for roadworthiness
The aim of the MOT test is to establish whether or not your vehicle is safe, and roadworthy. And that means there are a few checks you can undertake yourself in order to avoid potential fails over relatively minor details.
Start your engine. Then either walk around your car yourself, or ask someone else to, and check that all of the lights work – including sidelights, indicators and brake lights.
Inspect your windscreen for signs of damage, removing any stickers or parking permits that could impede the driver’s view of the road. Check that windscreen wipers work properly, and that they aren’t damaged or torn.
The driver’s seat should be able to be moved backwards and forwards, and all seatbelts should be checked over. There should be no signs of damage or wear, and all seatbelt fittings should work properly. Check that the horn is working properly too, and that the handbrake is operating at the correct tension.
Pushing down hard on each corner of your vehicle, then releasing it quickly, will show up potential issues with the suspension. If it keeps bouncing (more than twice), it’s a sure sign of faulty shock absorbers, so replacing them straight away will avoid an MOT re-test later.
At Protyre, we’re about much more than simply replacing tyres. Why not book an MOT test with us, and find out for yourself what makes us different from other garages?
Choosing the Right Tyre Made Easy
When it comes to your car's safety and performance, tyres can play a huge role. That's why we've put together a collection of helpful articles to guide you through the process of selecting the perfect tyres for your ride and maintaining your vehicle in general.
If you're looking for a smoother, more luxurious driving experience, premium car tyres might be the way to go. Or, if you want added security against flats, run flat car tyres could be your best bet. Trying to decide between summer car tyres and winter car tyres? We've got you covered there, too.
We also dive into the world of tyre brands, comparing top manufacturers like BF Goodrich tyres, Bridgestone tyres, Continental tyres, Dunlop tyres, Falken tyres, General tyres, Goodyear tyres, GT Radial tyres , Hankook tyres, Michelin tyres, Pirelli tyres, Runway tyres, Sumitomo tyres, and Toyo tyres.
But we don't just stop at helping you choose the right tyres – we also share tips on how to keep them in tip-top shape. From checking your tread depth and keeping your tyres properly inflated to extending their life through regular rotation and balancing, our articles have got you covered.
So, whether you're a car enthusiast or just looking to keep your vehicle safe and reliable, our car help and advice articles are here to help you make informed decisions about your tyres. Check them out and feel confident in your tyre choices!