If you’re a van owner, you’ll know that it’s important to get it MOT tested every year. This test helps to ensure that your van is safe to drive on the road. There are a few things you can do to prepare your van for its MOT test and increase the chances of it passing first time. Here are some tips:

1. Check your van’s exterior

Start by checking the exterior of your van for any damage. Make sure that all of the lights and reflectors are working correctly and that the tyres are in good condition.

2. Check your van’s interior

Next, check the interior of your van. Make sure that the seatbelts are working properly and that the speedometer and other instruments are working correctly.

3. Check your van’s fluids

Check the levels of all of your van’s fluids, including the engine oil, brake fluid and coolant. Top up any fluids that are low.

4. Take your van for a test drive

Take your van for a test drive before you take it for its MOT test. This will help you to identify any problems that need to be fixed.

Here is a more detailed checklist of things to check before your van’s MOT test:

Exterior

• Check all lights and reflectors are working correctly, including headlights, sidelights, brake lights, rear lights, fog lights and hazard lights.
• Check the tyres are in good condition, with at least 1.6mm of tread depth on all tyres.
• Check the windscreen for any cracks or chips.
• Check the windows and mirrors are clean and in good condition.
• Check the number plates are clean and legible.
• Check the bodywork for any damage.

Interior

• Check the seatbelts are working properly and not frayed or cut.
• Check the speedometer and other instruments are working correctly.
• Check the horn is working correctly.
• Check the windscreen wipers and washers are working correctly.
• Check the seats are in good condition and not torn or damaged.
• Check the doors and windows open and close properly.

Fluids

• Check the engine oil level and top up if necessary.
• Check the brake fluid level and top up if necessary.
• Check the coolant level and top up if necessary.

Other checks

• Check the steering wheel is not loose and that the van steers correctly.
• Check the brakes are working correctly.
• Check the exhaust system is free from leaks and damage.
• Check the suspension is working correctly.

If you are unsure whether your van is ready for its MOT test, you can take it to a qualified mechanic for a pre-MOT check. This will help to identify any problems that need to be fixed before the test.

Why is it important to prepare your van for its MOT test?

There are a few reasons why it’s important to prepare your van for its MOT test:

• To ensure that your van is safe to drive on the road.
• To avoid the inconvenience and expense of a failed MOT test.
• To maintain the value of your van.

A failed MOT test can be a costly inconvenience. You will need to have any problems that are found fixed before you can drive your van again. This can be expensive, especially if there are multiple problems.

A failed MOT test can also affect the value of your van. If you are looking to sell your van, a failed MOT test will make it less valuable.

Why is it important to choose the right van MOT garage?

Choosing the right van MOT garage is important for a number of reasons. You want to make sure that your van is inspected properly and safely and that any issues are identified and rectified before they become a problem. A reputable garage will have qualified staff who are trained to inspect vans and they will use the latest equipment and technology to ensure that your van meets all the safety requirements.

Here are some of the benefits of choosing the right van MOT garage:

• Peace of mind: Knowing that your van has been inspected and certified by a qualified garage will give you peace of mind when driving on the road.
• Safety: A good MOT garage will identify any potential safety issues with your van and recommend repairs. This will help to keep you and your passengers safe on the road.
• Reduced costs: By having your van MOTed regularly, you can help to prevent costly repairs down the road.
• Compliance with the law: It is a legal requirement for all vans to have a valid MOT certificate. If you are caught driving a van without a valid MOT certificate, you could face a fine and be disqualified from driving.

How to choose the right van MOT garage

When choosing a van MOT garage, there are a few things you should keep in mind:

• Reputation: Do some research to find a garage with a good reputation. You can read online reviews or ask friends and family for recommendations.
• Qualifications: Make sure that the garage has qualified staff who are trained to inspect vans. You can check this by asking to see their staff’s qualifications.
• Equipment: The garage should have the latest equipment and technology to inspect vans. This will ensure that your van is inspected properly and that any issues are identified.
• Price: Get quotes from a few different garages before you make a decision. Prices can vary, so it’s important to compare quotes before you book your MOT.

Choosing the right van MOT garage is important for your safety and the safety of others on the road. By following the tips above, you can choose a garage that will provide you with a high-quality MOT service.

For your van MOT  in Oldham, Bury, Manchester, North Manchester, Rochdale, Tameside etc make a booking below now or contact us or call us on 0161 628 5270 at the Van Centre Manchester. We also offer a highly convenient Collect & Return service or a Courtesy Car to ensure your routine is disrupted as little as possible while your vehicle undergoes an MOT.