MOT & Service Centre
Private | Commercial | Fleet
MOT Class 4 (Cars)
Choose Motorcare for MOT
Motorcare is a well-established garage in Slough committed to providing our customers with MOT service at great prices.
As a DVSA-approved MOT test garage for Class 4 cars and Class 7 vans, we offer a highly equipped workshop for MOT testing with a dedicated MOT bay, allowing us to provide MOT testing efficiently within 45 minutes to an hour. We have a convenient waiting room where you can wait.
When you bring your car for a Motorcare MOT, you will benefit from our technicians’ combined skills, experience, and outstanding customer service.
In addition to carrying out MOT tests, we also carry out car repairs to prepare your car for MOT. If your vehicle fails its MOT, we have all the tools, car parts, and expertise to do most car repairs. We can retest your vehicle and safely get you back on the road.
Regular car service is essential in car maintenance, servicing, and diagnostics. Having your car serviced promptly before an MOT helps to minimise disappointment and surprises during an MOT.
For peace of mind, phone Motorcare MOT and Service Centre in Slough Trading Estate on 01753 520350.
Simple Pre-MOT Checks you can do yourself
A vehicle can fail an MOT Test for various reasons, so servicing and maintenance can help avoid expensive surprises.
Multiple tests are conducted across all areas of the vehicle, and failure in any single area results in failing the entire MOT. Doing some basic checks will help ensure your car is in optimal condition for inspection, increasing your chances of passing.
Many common reasons for MOT test failure are easy to check at home. Addressing these issues in advance can help ensure a passing result. These home checks include:
Exhaust in MOT Testing
Listen for excessive noise or rattling when your vehicle is running.
This may indicate an issue with the exhaust system, which could lead to a failed MOT. Check for smoke from the exhaust.
While normal at startup for diesel engines, excessive smoke suggests a problem. Inspect for fuel or oil leaks from the exhaust.
Leaks may indicate issues with spark plugs or glow plugs not properly burning fuel.
Windscreen and wipers in MOT Testing
Any chip or crack in your windscreen larger than 40mm will result in a failed MOT.
The allowance is even smaller on the driver's side; any damage larger than 10mm in the area covered by your side wiper will result in failure. In addition to checking for windscreen damage, it is important to assess your wipers.
Your wipers and washers should be in good condition to ensure a clear road view. If your wipers are splitting or your washer feed is blocked, this needs attention before your MOT.
You can fail your MOT for having no screen wash, so ensure the bottle is topped up.
Fuel and Engine Oil in MOT Testing
Adequate fuel and oil levels are important for your car to pass the required emission tests.
Remove your dipstick from the engine and wipe it to check your oil levels. Then, put it back in and pull it out again.
Your oil level should be between the minimum and maximum marks (check your vehicle manual for specific instructions).
Make sure your car is parked on an even level when doing this.
Brakes in MOT Testing
Ensure your braking system is in good working condition.
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If the car pulls to one side when you apply the brakes, this indicates a problem that requires attention before your MOT.
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For vehicles with alloy wheels, you may be able to visually inspect the braking system without removing the wheel. Look for excessive wear on brake pads or pitted brake discs, as these are signs that your brakes may need replacing.
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Test your handbrake to ensure it is strong enough to hold your car stationary, especially on an incline.
If unsure, visit Motorcare for a free brake check ahead of your MOT.
Mirrors in MOT Testing
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Ensure your mirrors are intact, secure, and free of cracks.
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Damaged mirrors can result in an MOT failure; replace any cracked or smashed mirrors before your test.
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Replacement mirrors for your car make and model are often available online.
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Exercise caution with ‘self-adhesive’ mirrors, as they may fall off easily.
Interior Checks in MOT Testing
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Ensure all seatbelts are of the correct length and in working order. Test each by pulling sharply; they should lock.
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Your horn must be audible to other road users. Test it with a quick honk to verify functionality.
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Dashboard warning lights are part of your inspection. Check that they light up when the car starts and turn off before driving.
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If warning lights remain on, address the issues or have your car serviced before the test.
Service Regularly
Plan your car service to ensure your car remains in top condition and passes MOT tests. This preventative approach will help you save money.
Motorcare is a well-established independent garage. You are in expert hands, and we offer excellent services and value for money.
Protect your Safety, Driving Licence and Car Insurance Validity with an MOT
Ensuring the safety and legality of your vehicle is paramount, which is why understanding the importance of a Class 4 MOT for cars is essential.
Adherence to DVSA safety standards is non-negotiable for commercial vehicle testing and everyday car MOTs.
Cars over three years old must undergo an MOT test annually to confirm they meet these rigorous safety standards, making the roads safer for everyone.
Don’t leave your vehicle’s roadworthiness to chance; call Motorcare Slough today to book your MOT appointment and ensure your car remains in top condition.
Lights in MOT Testing
Ensure all your lights are in good working order. This includes:
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Headlights
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Sidelights
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Indicators
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Brake lights
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Number plate light
Check brake lights by having someone assist you or backing your car up to a wall and using reflections. Unsecured light mounts can lead to MOT failure.
Verify that all lights on your car are secure and not wobbly.
Tyres in MOT Testing
Ensure tyres are inflated within the correct pressure range.
Check your vehicle handbook for the correct tyre pressures. Tyres should have at least 1.6mm of tread around the entire tyre.
Use the 20p test to check tread depth. Simply place a 20p coin into the main tread grooves of your tyre. If the outer band of the 20p coin is obscured when it is inserted, then your tread is above the legal limit.
Tyre issues are the leading cause of MOT failures, so checking them in advance is crucial.
