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What to expect when you next have your MOT carried out

Keep up to date with the latest updates and guidelines on MOT testing introduced as part of EU Directive 2014/45 on 20th May 2018.



Why are these changes being made?

Changes to MOT testing are being introduced as part of the EU Directive 2014/45, which will be put into action on Sunday 20th May 2018 in England, Scotland and Wales.

These changes stem from the political action back in June, when the UK voted to leave the EU in the 2016 EU Referendum. The UK will still be an EU member on the 20th May when the directive comes into force, meaning that the UK government must make sure that these changes are introduced to avoid any ongoing substantial fines.

So what's changed?

Currently, for vehicles to be driven on Great Britain's roads there are 2 main legal safety requirements - it must be roadworthy and have a valid MOT. This is something that will not be changing on 20th May 2018.

When you have your MOT carried out on your vehicle, any defects found by the technician will be recorded and categorised as either: dangerous, major or minor, which will all depend on how serious the defect is.

From 20th May, the implementation of the new directive will pre-define what is considered as ‘dangerous’. Defects that are failure items but aren’t deemed as ‘dangerous’ will be called ‘major’ defects. In line with this, DVSA have made the wording on the MOT failure documents clear in reminding motorists that driving a dangerous vehicle is illegal.

The other new category to be implemented is 'minor'. This is where there’s a defect on the vehicle – but it isn’t serious enough for the vehicle to fail. Like the major and dangerous defects, they are also pre-defined for you. And, like the current MOT test, we'll still have advisories.

MOT Changes

​Changes to the MOT certificate:

The old MOT test certificate (left) has also been changed to a new style (right) to list the new types of defects, making it easier and clearer for drivers to understand

MOT Test Certificate Back Page
MOT Test
MOT Test Certificate Front Page

What new items will be tested from 20th May?

•passenger hand grips (quads and heavy trikes only)
•noise suppression material
•undertray security
•emission control equipment:
•oxygen sensor
•NOx sensor
•exhaust gas recirculation valve
•other emission control equipment
•engine malfunction indicator lamp
•diesel particulate filter (DPF) tampering
•fluid leaks - engine, transmission and so on

• brake fluid contamination
• additional braking device performance
• daytime running lamps
• front fog lamps
• reversing lamps
• bumpers
• prop shafts
• all rear drive shafts
• cab security
• cab steps
• floors

Defects that no longer cause an MOT fail:


  • brake fluid level below the minimum mark
  • brake fluid warning lamp illuminated or inoperative
  • power steering fluid below the minimum mark
  • trailer electrical socket insecure
  • direction indicator flashing rate
  • one of two registration plate lamps missing or inoperative
  • several audible warning defects
  • many times 'insecure' but not likely to become detached

What does this mean for diesel emissions?

There will be stricter limits for emissions from diesel cars with a diesel particulate filter (DPF). Major faults will be given if smoke of any colour can be seen coming from the exhaust, and if there is any evidence that the DPF has been tampered with.

If you have any queries or wish to find out more information about the changes implemented to MOT testing, please do not hesitate to contact our dealerships directly or send an online enquiry - we are always happy to provide our advise and assistance.

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Snows has 45 franchised dealerships across the South of England, stretching from Plymouth to Guildford, and including the Isle of Wight. The Group prides itself on its reputation and dedication to delivering excellent customer service, and is rewarded by the fact that over half of its business comes from returning customers. With Snows, driving becomes an experience, rather than a chore.

Author: Sophie taylor

Please contact Sophie Taylor using sophie.taylor@snowsgroup.co.uk or 02380 707750 with all press enquiries.

Posted on 17/05/2018