Changes to MOT Tests
Stricter new rules around MOTs are being rolled out across the country next month.
These new rules could have severe impacts for Diesel car drivers and could even see drivers facing a fine of up to £2,500 if they are caught breaking any of them.
The new fines cover areas such as not having a valid MOT certificate in place or not reaching new MOT standards, particularly around failing to reach new emissions standards from diesel cars.
The new rules will come into effect on 20th May 2018, and they will affect cars, vans, motorcycles and other light passenger vehicles.
But just how many drivers are aware of these forthcoming changes?
Defects will be categorised differently
Defects found during the MOT will be categorised as either: dangerous, major or minor. The category the MOT tester gives each item will depend on the type of problem and how serious it is. MOT testers will still give advice about items you need to monitor and they will still be known as ‘advisories’.
Stricter Rules For Diesel Car Emissions
There will be stricter limits for emissions from diesel cars with a diesel particulate filter (DPF). A DPF captures and stores exhaust soot to reduce emissions from diesel cars. You can check your car’s handbook if you at unsure if your car has a DPF.
Your vehicle will get a major fault if the MOT tester can see smoke of any colour coming from the exhaust or if they find evidence that the DPF has been tampered with.
New Items in the MOT Test
Your tester will check:
- if tyres are obviously underinflated
- if the brake fluid has been contaminated
- for fluid leaks posing an environmental risk
- brake pad warning lights and if brake pads or discs are missing
- reversing lights on vehicles first used from 1 September 2009
- headlight washers on vehicles first used from 1 September 2009 (if they have them)
- daytime running lights on vehicles first used from 1 March 2018 (most of these vehicles will have their first MOT in 2021 when they’re 3 years old)
MOT Certificate Will Change
The design and layout of the MOT certificate will change also. The new certificate will list any defects under the new categories, so that they are clear and easy to understand. The service to check the MOT history of a vehicle will be updated to reflect the changes.
To find out more about any of these changes, or to check when your MOT is due, visit the government website.