Whether you’re buying a used car, selling your vehicle, or simply keeping your car roadworthy, performing a proper Car MOT check in the UK is crucial.
Many drivers focus only on the expiry date, overlooking past failures, advisories, or mileage discrepancies. Ignoring these details can lead to unexpected repair bills, insurance complications, or even legal issues.
In this guide, we explain exactly how to carry out a car MOT check, what the results mean, common mistakes to avoid, and how using MOT data wisely can save you money and stress.
What Is a Car MOT Check?
A car MOT check lets you review a vehicle’s legal testing history and safety status. In the UK, most vehicles over three years old must pass an MOT annually to remain road-legal.
An MOT check provides:
Current MOT status and expiry date
Full MOT history, including past passes or failures
Advisory notices highlighting minor issues
Mileage records recorded at each test
Accessing this information helps drivers and buyers assess the vehicle’s condition, identify recurring problems, and plan for maintenance before costly repairs become necessary.
Why Performing an MOT Check Matters
Many car issues aren’t visible on a test drive.
MOT history can reveal:
Recurring faults with brakes, tyres, or suspension
Signs of corrosion or body damage
Potentially tampered mileage readings
For buyers, MOT checks confirm that a car is safe, reliable, and legally compliant. For owners, regular checks help anticipate repairs, keep the car roadworthy, and maintain insurance validity.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Do a Car MOT Check in the UK
Step 1: Get the Vehicle Registration Number
You only need the car’s registration number to perform a free MOT check.
This can be found on:
Number plates
V5C logbook
Online car listings
Step 2: Use the Official DVLA MOT Check Service
The UK government provides a free, reliable online MOT checking tool. Simply enter the registration number to see:
Expiry date of the current MOT
Pass or fail results
Advisory notes
Mileage records
This official source is the most accurate way to confirm MOT history and avoid misleading information.
Step 3: Review the Full MOT History
Don’t stop at the latest MOT result.
Examine previous years to identify patterns:
Recurring advisories for brakes, tyres, suspension, or emissions
Any repeated failures that might indicate underlying problems
Understanding MOT Results
MOT Pass
A pass shows the vehicle met the minimum legal safety and environmental standards at the time of testing. Note: it doesn’t guarantee the car is problem-free.
MOT Advisory
Advisories are minor issues that don’t warrant a failure but may need attention soon.
Examples include:
Worn brake pads or tyres
Suspension wear
Early signs of corrosion
Repeated advisories for the same issue could indicate temporary fixes or neglected maintenance.
MOT Fail
Failures indicate serious issues that must be repaired before the car can legally drive on UK roads. Reviewing past failures helps understand whether issues are persistent or properly addressed.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During a Car MOT Check
Only Checking the Expiry Date
Many drivers focus solely on the MOT expiry date, ignoring advisory notes and past failures that could affect repair costs.Ignoring Patterns in Advisories
One advisory may be minor, but repeated warnings for the same issue often point to ongoing problems.Assuming a Recent Pass Means No Issues
A recent MOT pass does not guarantee future trouble-free operation. Components like brakes and tyres can wear quickly after testing.Not Verifying Mileage Records
MOT mileage should increase steadily year over year. Sudden drops or inconsistencies may indicate tampering or inaccurate records.
Using MOT Checks When Buying a Used Car
Before purchasing a used car, MOT history can:
Support price negotiations if recurring advisories or failures exist
Highlight potential maintenance costs
Reveal mileage discrepancies or previous repairs
Ask the seller for invoices or evidence that issues have been addressed. If in doubt, have the car inspected by a qualified mechanic before buying.
Using MOT Checks as a Car Owner
Even if you’re not buying, MOT checks help you:
Budget for repairs before your next MOT
Identify recurring issues early
Maintain a record of your vehicle’s condition over time
Regular checks allow you to plan maintenance gradually rather than facing costly last-minute repairs.
How MOT Checks Help Reduce Repair Costs
Many minor problems flagged in advisories can become major repairs if ignored.
For example:
Worn suspension or brake components
Corrosion spreading on panels or chassis
Emission system issues
By addressing these early, drivers can prevent breakdowns and spread repair costs over time.
Final Thoughts
A car MOT check in the UK is one of the simplest yet most valuable tools for any driver. It provides insight into safety, maintenance history, and potential future costs. By reviewing the full MOT history, understanding advisories, and avoiding common mistakes, you can:
Make smarter buying decisions
Keep your vehicle legally compliant
Avoid unexpected repair bills
Whether buying a used car or preparing for your next MOT, staying informed helps you stay in control, protect your wallet, and drive safely.
