Are MOT Tests Stricter In Winter Due To Weather-Related Damage?

When the weather changes and we enter winter, everything changes, even when we start wearing warmer clothes. We see snow and ice on the ground, and our cars also feel this scenario. They need more care in winter. Mostly people ask, “Are motor tests different in the winters, as winters seem to be hard on cars. But in winter, the rules of mot are more rigid. First, we need to understand what an MOT test is. The MOT test is known for its annual check to see whether your car is safe to drive.

They look at many parts of the car, including brakes, lights, and more. This is mandatory in the UK to get your vehicle tested; your car needs to be repaired if it fails. The procedure of testing the vehicle is the same every year. The performance of the car changes in winter, which can make a significant impact. Read this blog thoroughly to get insights into the procedure of the MOT test in winter. 

How is your car affected by the winters? 

Cold weather can cause many problems and can damage your car as well. Snow, ice and road salt can harm many parts of your vehicle. Tyres can lose grip in icy weather, and even batteries get affected in this season. You will experience that the wipers can freeze and stop working in such a situation. These problems are more common in winter and can make your car have more issues when it goes for the MOT Basingstoke. Even though there are no strict rules in winter, this can cause your car to fail the test at that time. 

Tyres need good tread to grip the road. In winter, the cars face wet or icy conditions, making the tyres hard to work in. The cold weather can crack the rubber and affect driving. Potholes on the frozen roads can also damage the tyres.

This can even lead to failure in the MOT test if you notice that the tyres are worn or damaged. Always check the tyre tread before going for the MOT test. Always ensure the tyres are not damaged and have no cuts or lumps. Replace them if needed as soon as possible. 

In winter, it is hard to drive a car, and the lights mark an important place at that time. Wipers also work hard to clear snow or rain. Your car can fail the MOT test if the wipers are not functioning well or the lights are not working well.

You can fix this problem before the commencement of winter. Check all the lights before going for the MOT test. Even clean them so they will shine brighter. Replace all the bulbs that are not working and ensure that the wiper blades remain in good shape. If you notice they are squeaking or leaving streaks, just replace them.

Car batteries work less in cold weather, so they will lose power and stop working. If the battery is weak, you will face difficulty starting the car. While conducting the MOT test, the technician doesn’t test the batteries directly. If the lights start to flicker, the test will automatically stop. This means that it could delay the testing and cause other issues. It will be a smart option if you check your batteries before going for the MOT test in winter. 

Most people use road salt to stop the snowfall, but it can also harm your car. This sticks to the bottom and causes rusting. Rusting can hurt the important components like brakes and the exhaust system. The vehicle can fail the MOT test if these parts are rusty or damaged.

Washing your car in winter is important. Make sure that the vehicle is clean under the car, too. You can even ask your mechanic or garage to check for any type of damage and rusting before going for the test. They can fix all the problems as soon as possible before they become significant problems. 

Many cars break down in the winter and might not even make it to the mot centre. Flat tyres, dead batteries, or frozen locks can stop the car from moving. Always try to warm your vehicle in the morning before going anywhere. Keep the fuel tank at least half full, as this is mandatory in winter. This stops water from freezing in the fuel lines. A little care can do wonders for your driving and prepare you for the test. 

Final Thoughts

The MOT test is the same even in the winter. But the cold weather can make your car weaker. This means that your car has to face many challenges in order to drive, and you might fail the test if the car is not ready.

You can save yourself from this problem if you prepare your vehicle with just simple things. You just need to check your tyres, lights, wipers and batteries before going for the MOT test. If you properly care for your car, you can pass the MOT test with flying colours and drive freely. 

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