What Are The Effects of New MOT Laws?

MOT rules have changed after 20th May 2018, with new fault categories and stricter rules for vehicle emissions from diesel vehicles. The question is how the new MOT affects you and your vehicle. 

In this article, we are going to discuss the new MOT rules changes after 2018. We will also discuss more about the all rules implemented for diesel vehicles. Read more if you are interested in knowing more about MOT rules.

What is the MOT test?

In the test, the MOT tester will inspect the technical elements of your vehicle to ensure it’s safe to drive and check for toxic emissions that could harm the environment.

From 20th May 2018, most vehicles won’t need an MOT Test Corby from the 40th anniversary of when they are registered. The only exception to this new rule is vehicles that have been ‘substantially changed’ within the last 30 years.

The new rules have been implemented to improve vehicle technology and maintenance across Europe to help reach the EU’s ‘zero vision’ objective of zero fatalities in road transport by 2050.

How is the MOT Changing?

There are five new changes in the law that you need to know about so you don’t get caught out by the police: 

There is a Spectator Defects Category

If a fault is found during the MOT test, it will be categorized into three types:

• Dangerous (Fail)

• Major (Fail)

• Minor (Pass)

Stricter rules for diesel car emissions

Those vehicles that have installed a diesel particulate filter (DPF) give out visible smoke of any colour during performing MOT test will come under major fault which is an automatic fail. It will also fail if the MOT tester finds proof that the DPF has been tampered with. 

New items tested during the MOT

In addition to the current inspection, new elements will be added to the testing process. These include inspecting whether:

• Your tyres are underinflated

• Your vehicle brake fluid has been contaminated

• Your vehicle is leaking fluid which can pose an environmental risk

• Your brake pad warning lights appear and if brake pads or discs are missing.

• Headlight washers on vehicles. 

• Daytime running lights on vehicles.

Change the appearance of the MOT certificate

The new design of the MOT certificate will look different from the previous one. It will list all the defects under the new categories, so they are clear and easy for vehicle owners to understand. The service to check the MOT history of your vehicle will also updated to reflect the changes. 

Currently, Vehicles made before 1960 are exempt from performing an MOT annually. From 20th May 2018, most vehicles won’t need an MOT from the 40th anniversary of when they are registered. The only exception to this new rule is vehicles that have been ‘substantially changed’ within the last 30 years.

Those vehicles are considered ‘substantially changed’ if the technical characteristics of the main parts have changed in the last 30 years unless the changes fall into specific categories. These main parts for vehicles are:

• Chassis- If the vehicle chassis is replaced with the same pattern as the original is not considered a substantial change. Monocoque body shells including any sub-frames replaced of the same pattern as the original are not considered a substantial change.

• Axles and running gear- Any type of alteration or method of suspension or steering adds up to a substantial change.

Why are the MOT Changes Happening?

The new MOT rules are being introduced as part of the EU roadworthiness directive, which comes into force on May 20 in member states. Regardless of the UK voting to leave the EU, the changes are being implemented because we are still a full member of the EU.

Those vehicles that have installed a diesel particulate filter (DPF) give out visible smoke of any colour during performing MOT test will come under major fault which is an automatic fail.

The new rules have been implemented to improve vehicle technology and maintenance across Europe to help reach the EU’s ‘zero vision’ objective of zero fatalities in road transport by 2050.

What Do The New Fault Categories Mean?

In the new MOT tests, it will no longer be a pass or fail. Instead, every fault found during the MOT test will be categorized under dangerous, major, or minor.

Minor

Those vehicles that come under the minor category will be allowed to pass and the faults will be recorded so you can get them repaired later. For example, a vehicle has slight damage to the brake hose. These minor damages can be repairable during the Car Service in Corby. 

Major

Vehicles that come under the major category will automatically fail the MOT and should be repaired immediately. For example, oil is leaking from the steering and continuously drips. 

Dangerous 

Vehicles that fall under the dangerous category are deemed an immediate risk to road safety or have a risk to the environment. They will be subject to an automatic fail and should not be driven until all the faults of the vehicle have been repaired. For example, the steering wheel is loose and it will be detached if not repaired.