What do they check on an MOT for a van

The MOT test refers to the Ministry of Transport test that is carried out yearly, starting in the third year after a vehicle is registered. In order to drive legally on public highways, a vehicle must have three things: a current MOT, road tax, and valid insurance. The test concerns itself with ensuring the vehicle meets basic safety standards and that its exhaust emissions are not above permitted levels.

It does not concern itself with the condition of the vehicle unless there are safety or environmental implications. A recent MOT pass is a good thing to look out for when purchasing a used van, it means the vehicle is roadworthy but it may not always be a sign the vehicle has been well-maintained. A faulty gearbox, clutch or engine may not show up on an MOT unless they are leaking and creating a pollution hazard, for example.

Pre-MOT checks.

If your van hasn't been serviced in a while, then it makes sense to have this done before an MOT is due. Filter and oil changes will mean your vehicle is running greener and is far more likely to pass the emissions tests. Here at Protyre, we offer the complete package of servicing needs for all vehicles. Even if the servicing schedule has been adhered to, it is still a good idea to book one of our free online vehicle checks before an MOT is due, as potential failure points can be picked up, saving the need for another MOT and potentially extra time off the road for your van.

Having said that, there are a few basic checks that everyone can do. The lights should be checked. You will need two people for this, one inside operating them and one outside checking. Many modern vans will have dashboard warning lights to show when a bulb is blown, but it is easy enough to check and then replace any that have gone.

An all-too-often missed check by the van owner is the windscreen and wiper blades. A windscreen should have no chips or cracks larger than 10mm if they are in the driver's line of sight or 40mm if they are in a peripheral area not affecting the driver's vision. The windscreen wipers should be checked, and if the blades are worn, corroded, or damaged, they should be replaced. The washer bottle should have adequate fluid up to the minimum indicated. This can easily be topped up if it is low.

Bodywork and number plates should be checked to make sure everything is secure. Nothing cosmetic will concern the examiner, but body parts hanging off or badly duct taped on certainly will. The number plate should be a standard version in the correct font. Some cosmetic after-market number plates may not conform.

Finally, the tyres should be checked. These are one of the most common reasons for an MOT failure. All tyres should have sufficient tread, approximately to the edge ridge of a 20p coin in depth is the often quoted benchmark. If you are unsure about it or the tyre is borderline, then you can seek advice from our tyre professionals. In our experience, it is better not to leave things to chance. We fit over 2 million tyres a year in our local garages, with large stocks of tyres including world-class brands such as Pirelli, Bridgestone, Sumitomo and Falken and teams of qualified fitters ready to carry out any work to keep you safe and road legal.

Different classes of vehicles and MOT categories

So, how is a van MOT different to a car MOT test? This depends on the category of the van. The MOT test is divided into 6 different classes (with a few sub-categories), Class 1 is motorcycles up to 200cc engine size, Class 2 is any motorcycle over 200cc, Class 3 is unique to 3-wheeled vehicles with a weight up to 450kg, Class 4 is the most common and includes cars with up to 8 seats, vans with a gross weight up to 3000kg or passenger vans with up to 12 seats, and service vehicles such as Ambulances and Taxis. Class 5 is passenger vans with over 16 seats, including coaches and larger Ambulances. Class 7 is for HGV vehicles. As you can see, almost all car-derived vans fall into the same category as cars and are tested as such.

MOT van checklist.

During the MOT for van Category 4, the examiner will check exhaust emissions and diesel engines will be checked to confirm that their DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) is working and that it has not been tampered with or removed. The rest of the testing will mostly concern the safety of the vehicle. Exhaust systems, electrical wiring and batteries, seatbelts, the horn, steering, suspension and if the van has a towbar fitted, will be checked to see if it is secure and in working order and that no modifications have been made to it.

The fuel system will be checked to make sure there are no leaks or excessive corrosion, so if the filler has a separate key, don't forget to provide it. The malfunction indicators for the airbags will be checked to make sure they are working. The seatbelts should be in good working order and not have been inappropriately modified.

Any of these areas can result in MOT failure, so before your MOT is due, why not book one of our free online vehicle checks? It may save you the hassle of a re-test and extra days lost for your business workhorse.