Do electric vehicles need an MOT?

Posted August 30, 2017 by Leighanne

So, you've made the choice to switch to an electric vehicle, you can now enjoy the benefits of not paying for road tax but unfortunately you can’t escape the MOT contrary to popular belief.

EVs have to pass an MOT after they are three years old as with any other vehicle. The main difference between EVs and petrol or diesel cars during its MOT test is that there’s no emissions test.

So, what does an electric car MOT look like?

Step 1:

As with an internal combustion engine MOT, an electric car has to be logged on the official MOT test computer system. As mentioned above there are no emissions checks to worry about so EV drivers would jump to the next step.

Step 2:

The tester will then check that all your lights work correctly.

Step 3:

Next, they’ll check the seatbelts, windscreen wipers etc and examine the windscreen for cracks or chips.

Step 4:

After that's done your car will be raised into the air on an MOT test lift.

They will then check that your steering is intact.The tester will then spin each wheel freely to check the tyres and to check for the correct bearing operation which also includes a full suspension check.

Step 5:

The MOT tester will now check for any presence of rust at any key mounting points and brackets. Interestingly, MOT testers aren’t allowed to remove anything to check for the presence of rust, so the big aerodynamic underbody panel on most EVs will stay put.

Step 6:

Finally, it’s back down to the ground for the same brake tests you’d have in any car.

Can I do my MOT at the dealership or a local garage?

The answer is simple, you can do it at both.

Vehicles exempt from MOT:

  • Cars and motorcycles made before 1960
  • Goods vehicles powered by electricity
  • Tractors

A list of exempt types of vehicles is on form V112. As per the .Gov website, you will need to fill in the form if your vehicle is listed so that you can tax it.

How much does an MOT cost?

The maximum cost for a vehicle MOT according to the .GOV website is £54.85, you could find it cheaper at your local garage or dealerships but should never pay more than the above-stated amount.

So, there you have it. EVs do in fact need to pass an MOT! Unless you’re driving a milk float or a tractor of course. ;)

Happy charging!
