How to Keep the Car in Good Condition Between MOT Tests

Whilst an MOT is a vital annual vehicle test, it does not imply that a vehicle will be in the same shape when the next MOT is due. Cars are used daily and can wear out anytime during the interim period between tests. Motorists can detect these changes through regular maintenance before it becomes a more serious issue that impacts on safety or reliability. Simple checks can be carried out routinely, while professional servicing can identify issues that are less obvious to the driver. This blog will discuss practical ways to keep the car in good condition between MOT tests, including routine checks, servicing and the warning signs that should never be ignored.

Why a Car Needs Attention Between MOTs?

An MOT provides an assessment of specific vehicle components at the time of testing. It does not mean that the vehicle will be mechanically fit for the remainder of the year. There are a number of elements that can start to deteriorate following an MOT, including:

• Tyres: Tread wears down with mileage and road use.
• Brakes: Pads, discs and other components can wear through regular braking.
• Fluids: Engine oil and other fluids may become low or contaminated.
• Lights: Bulbs can go out at any time.
• Battery: Battery performance may deteriorate over time.

Hence, regular checks give motorists an opportunity to notice these changes early. It's also crucial to be aware of the difference between maintenance and MOT. MOT Wembley will check compliance with certain legal requirements at the time of the test, whereas routine maintenance will be to ensure the vehicle is in a suitable state of operation throughout the year.

Parts One Should Check and Monitor Before MOT 

Drivers can perform several basic checks without specialist equipment before the MOT. They are as follows: 

Inspect the Tyres

Tyres are very important as they affect grip, braking and handling. The driver must take regular checks:

• Tread condition: Look for signs of excessive or uneven wear.
• Tyre pressure: Adhere to the manufacturer’s suggested pressure.
• Sidewalls: Inspect for cuts, cracks and bulges.
• Uneven Wear. This may indicate problems with alignment, suspension or pressure.

If a tyre repeatedly loses tyre pressure or has visible damage, it should be examined by a professional, and not just inflated and used without finding out why.

Check Fluid Levels

Several vehicle systems rely on fluids to operate correctly. Drivers should check the relevant fluid levels according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Some of the important fluids can include:

• Engine oil
• Coolant
• Screenwash
• Brake fluid
• Power steering fluid, where applicable

Low engine oil, for instance, can impact the lubrication and running of the engine. Likewise, recurring low coolant levels can be a sign of a leak or something else. Drivers should also avoid opening certain fluid reservoirs when the engine is hot. The vehicle handbook should always be consulted for the correct checking and topping-up procedure.

Test the Lights

A quick light check can identify problems that may otherwise go unnoticed. Check that the following are working correctly:

• Headlights
• Brake lights
• Indicators
• Rear lights
• Hazard lights
• Number plate lights

It is advisable to inspect the light lenses. If the bulb is functioning properly, but the unit is cracked or damaged, it needs to be replaced.

Pay Attention to Changes in how the car Drives

Not every vehicle problem is immediately visible. A change in the way the vehicle sounds, feels or drives can be an early warning that something needs attention. They are as follows:

Listen for Unusual Noises

New or persistent sounds should not automatically be considered normal. One should pay attention to:

• Grinding noises
• Squealing
• Knocking
• Rattling
• Humming or unusual road noise

For example, grinding from the braking system could indicate that components require inspection. Similarly, repeated knocking over bumps could point towards a suspension-related issue.

Notice Changes in Steering or Braking

Changes in vehicle behaviour can also indicate developing faults. Drivers should take notice if the car:

• Pulls to one side
• Vibrates while braking
• Develops unusually heavy steering
• Takes longer to stop
• Feels unstable around corners
• Develops a change in brake pedal feel

These symptoms should be investigated promptly. If the issue is a developing mechanical problem, and that person continues to operate the vehicle, the problem may deteriorate.

Keep Up With Regular Car Servicing

Routine servicing complements the checks that motorists carry out themselves. A professional technician can inspect components that may not be possible to assess accurately without specialist knowledge or equipment. Maintenance can involve inspection of:

• Engine oil and oil filters: Keeps the engine properly lubricated and filtered.
• Brakes: Allows signs of wear or other problems to be identified.
• Battery: Helps assess battery condition and starting performance.
• Steering and suspension: Can identify wear that is affecting handling and stability.
• Fluid levels: Levels of important fluids can be monitored and topped up accordingly.
• Exhaust: Visible damage or other concerns can be identified.

For motorists arranging car servicing Wembley, following the manufacturer's recommended service intervals can help ensure important maintenance is not overlooked. A service should not be viewed as simply a way to prepare for an MOT. Its purpose is to help maintain the vehicle's overall condition throughout its use.

Conclusion

Maintaining a car in good shape between MOTs is ongoing, not just one test per year. Inspecting tyres, fluid levels and lights regularly can assist motorists in discovering simpler issues, and understanding how the car performs in terms of braking, steering, engine and dashboard warning lights can suggest problems that require professional inspection. Routine servicing is an additional level of maintenance, where experienced technicians can check crucial parts and look for potential issues. But servicing and routine checks are a supplement, not a substitute for an MOT. Drivers should stick to the manufacturer's maintenance timetable and attend to issues before they become an issue rather than waiting for the next test. By adopting a uniform strategy towards vehicle maintenance, safety, reliability and roadworthiness can be promoted all year.