No matter where you need to go, whether it’s a vacation or just a day out visiting friends, the first thing you do is you pack a bag. From checking the weather to downloading a couple of podcasts you’ll possibly listen to, those are the most common prep steps. As always, the car is forgotten in the middle of the hustle and bustle. It is very easy to assume that it will be okay and nothing will disturb you there. Not the car, but your property also requires some amount of care for it to function. However, it is necessary to book an MOT Test for your car before you travel. This is not the most exciting part of the trip, but it indeed is the most important. If you skip it, or you are a bit late in booking it, a fun ride can turn into a disaster at any given moment.

Disclaimer: This post is a collaboration

Currently, in the UK, a car that is more than three years old should have an MOT done every year. It is a means that exists to confirm the vehicle’s roadworthiness and that it doesn’t pose a risk to people’s lives. It’s always a good idea to get this sorted before a big drive. Scheduling your MOT Test at Magowan Tyres today is a smart move—The service they provide is extremely quick and efficient, characteristics that are much needed in cases of people need to travel! Those who are about to set out on the road would do themselves a favour by booking the test in advance because during holidays, it is common for garages to be overbooked, so it is better to leave some time for possible necessary adjustments.

Travel enthusiasts can make a few of the checks, which are quite easy even in advance of the MOT. The tread of the car tyres is the first thing to look at. It should be at least 1.6mm—the legal limit. The 20p coin comes in handy to ascertain if the depth is correct. Other things, such as headlights, indicators, brake lights — everything should be on the go.

Other parts that need to be checked are the wipers. In case the wipers are smearing the water across the windscreen or not cleaning evenly, it is a sure… that a change is due. The windscreen washer should also be functioning properly.  Always keep in mind that, in addition to all that, an MOT test involves an emissions test as well. The presence of obstructions in the car engine or the exhaust system that is not functioning properly can prevent the car from passing an MOT test and cause its owner big trouble as well. Regular service visits are absolutely essential, especially for those of us whose cars are a little older.

Being without a valid MOT is not only a dangerous thing to do— it is also illegal. If you are discovered driving without an MOT, you may have to pay a fine, get points on your licence, and your insurance may be invalidated. Moreover, even when you feel your car is in good operating condition, without the certified paper, you will be at high risk.

Before setting off on a weekend getaway or a long road trip, you should make sure that the MOT test has been done well in advance. The entire affair should not take more than an hour to finish. In the end, it allows you to go fully prepared and anxiety-free about the roadworthiness of your vehicle.

Quite often, solving these problems before the deadline results in a saving of money as well. The majority of faults picked up in MOT tests could be easily rectified pre-MOT at a fraction of the cost involved in the repair. Moreover, the safety of road users is given top priority if this is done.