The MOT test is an annual safety and environmental inspection required for most vehicles over three years old in the UK. It is not the same as a service — the tester checks whether your car meets minimum legal standards, not whether it is due for an oil change. Understanding what is examined helps you prepare and reduces the chance of a surprise failure. At Pickwell Autohub, our DVSA-approved testers at /services/mot-testing inspect every vehicle to the same national standard.

Lights, electrical equipment, and horn

The tester checks all external lights: headlights (including aim), sidelights, indicators, brake lights, fog lights, and number plate illumination. Rear reflectors and the horn are also tested. A blown bulb is one of the most common MOT failures — yet it is also one of the cheapest to fix. Walk around your car the night before your test and ask a friend to press the brake pedal while you check the rear lights.

Steering and suspension

The examiner assesses steering for excessive play, condition of the steering rack, and whether the power steering functions correctly. Suspension components — shock absorbers, springs, wishbones, and bushes — are checked for wear, leaks, and security. Knocks over Reading's potholes can accelerate suspension wear, so listen for unusual noises when driving over bumps before your MOT date.

Brakes

Brake performance is tested on a roller brake tester. The examiner measures efficiency and balance between left and right wheels. Brake pads, discs, pipes, hoses, and the handbrake are inspected visually. If you have noticed squealing, a soft pedal, or the car pulling under braking, book a brake check at /services/brake-repairs before your MOT. Addressing worn pads early is far cheaper than failing and rebooking.

Tyres and wheels

Tyres must have at least 1.6 mm of tread across the central three-quarters of the tyre, with no bulges, cuts, or cord exposure. The tester also checks tyre size, type, and that wheels are securely fitted. If you are unsure about your tread depth, read our guide on how to check tyre tread depth or book a free tyre safety check at /services/tyres.

Seat belts, seats, and mirrors

Every seat belt is checked for condition, operation, and secure mounting. Seats must be firmly attached, and rear-view and wing mirrors must be present, secure, and provide adequate visibility. These items are often overlooked but are quick to inspect yourself before the test.

Windscreen, wipers, and washers

Windscreen damage is assessed against DVSA limits — chips and cracks in the driver's eyeline above a certain size will fail the test. Wipers must clear the screen effectively and washers must work. Top up your washer fluid before arriving and replace worn wiper blades if they smear.

Exhaust, emissions, and fuel system

For petrol and diesel vehicles, emissions are measured against legal limits. The exhaust system is checked for leaks, security, and excessive noise. A diesel with a faulty diesel particulate filter (DPF) or a petrol car with a worn catalytic converter may fail the emissions section — often triggering the engine management light. Our diagnostics team at /services/diagnostics can investigate emissions-related faults before your MOT.

Bodywork, doors, and registration plates

Sharp edges on body panels, insecure bumpers, and doors that do not open from inside and outside are failure items. Registration plates must be secure, clearly legible, and correctly formatted. The vehicle identification number (VIN) must be present and legible.

Book your MOT in Reading

Pickwell Autohub offers DVSA-approved MOT testing at Pickwell Motor, 173 Cardiff Rd RG1 8HD, and Joys Motor, 12 Long Barn Ln RG2 7SZ. We provide free retests within ten working days if we carry out the remedial repairs. Book online at /booking — it takes around sixty seconds.

What Is Checked in an MOT?