MOT Test – Electric Vehicles

Mot Test

Many drivers have expressed their preference for the electric vehicles since they were introduced into the UK. However, there has been a lingering debate whether the electric cars need to undergo the Ministry of Transport (MOT) Test. These tests are mandatory in accordance with the UK laws. MOT tests are done to determine the safety of vehicles and level of emissions. Some people believe that it is not necessary to test these cars because they do not produce such emissions.
This assumption is however not correct. The MOT tests go far beyond checking for emissions. These tests apply to all vehicle owners, and we are yet to determine any exemptions. To clarify this point, we have identified some common MOT tests that electric cars older than three years must also undergo.

Inspecting the car lights

It is important to ascertain the functionality of car lights on electric cars. These checks fall under the MOT tests. All car lights must be functioning properly to pass the MOT test.

Assessing the brake system

Electric cars also have brake systems that can become compromised due to poor maintenance. These inspections also fall under the MOT tests. The brake systems need to be comprehensively checked to ensure the driver and occupants are safe while being transported in the car.

Testing functional car parts

Other functional car parts such as the windscreen wipers, seatbelts also need to be checked. The windscreen on electric cars can also become cracked during use. The certified mechanic may not give the electric car a pass if there are cracks on the windscreen due to the potential danger. It is an indication of how important MOT tests are for electric cars.

Inspections to detect corrosion

The parts under cars are prone to corrosion. This can happen over time, and electric cars older than three years also need to be checked for signs of this defect.

Inspecting the wheels and suspension

It is also important to ensure the wheels and suspension in electric cars are working perfectly. How else can these protective checks be done if not through the mandatory MOT tests? Similar to other cars, these mechanical tests can detect faults that must be quickly fixed to prevent serious car problems.

In conclusion, all vehicles including the electric cars that fall within the identified age range (three years in the case of electric cars) should be presented at the nearest MOT test centres. However, MOT tests for electric cars are a much easier process because there is no need to carry out emissions tests.

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