Van MOTs: Everything You Need to Know
An important part of van ownership is making sure your van is roadworthy with an annual MOT. Not only will it help to identify any potential issues, but also keep you and those around you safe on the road. Ultimately, when your van is off the road – so is your business.
Continue reading to find out everything you need to know about van MOTs.
What is a van MOT and why do I need one?
A van MOT is a legal requirement that ensures your van is roadworthy and meets environmental requirements.
When are van MOTs needed?
If you buy or lease a new van, it won’t need an MOT until it reaches three years old. After three years, an annual MOT then becomes a legal requirement. If your van is over three years old and doesn’t get MOT tested every year, you put yourself at risk of a fine of up to £1,000.
Without an annual MOT test, you will also invalidate your van insurance. This means that if you are involved in an accident – you won’t be covered.
What does a van MOT cover?
An MOT will check the roadworthiness of your van and ensure that it meets environmental standards set out by the government.
Typical van MOTs will check:
- Wheels and tyres
- Brakes
- Steering and suspension
- Fuel system
- Emissions
- Bodywork
- Doors
- Mirrors
- Lights
- Windscreen
- Windscreen wipers and screen wash
- Horn
- Seatbelts
- Seats
The test roughly takes around 45 minutes, and any issues found are categorised into three types – minor, major, or dangerous. If your van has a minor fault, you can still drive it, but the issues will need to be addressed before they become a bigger problem.
If your van is found to have a major or dangerous fault, it’s then deemed unroadworthy and will result in an instant MOT failure. You will need to address the issues immediately and then pay for an MOT re-test.
It’s important to note that driving a van with a dangerous fault can lead to a fine of up to £2,500, three penalty points, and even a driving ban.
How much does a van MOT cost?
This will depend on the vehicle class of your van, however there is a maximum price that MOT centres can charge.
Currently, goods vehicles with a gross weight of up to 3,000kg will pay £54.85. Vans with a gross weight of up 3,500kg will pay £58.60.
At Vansdirect, we offer a service and maintenance package for vans on a Finance Lease or Hire Purchase agreement. From £20 per month plus VAT, you can take care of any servicing work your van might need. The package also includes MOT testing.
How to prepare for your van MOT
Benjamin Franklin once said, ‘by failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail’ and it couldn’t be truer. Just a few simple steps will set your van up for MOT success and prevent re-test and repair costs.
Check your lights – this includes all lights such as brake and reverse lights. Simply switch them on and off and ask a family member or friend to confirm they’re working. If there’s nobody around, you can also use a reflective surface like a garage door to check they’re working.
Check your tyres – a quick glance at your tyres will let you know if they need some extra attention before your MOT test. This should include tyre pressure and tread depth. If your tyres are below the legal 1.6mm limit, it will result in an instant MOT failure. You can also get driving licence points, in addition to a fine of up to £2,500 per tyre.
Make sure your windscreen wipers are working – switch on your wipers to ensure they are still working effectively and top up any fluid. Also give your windscreen a quick once over to make sure it’s free of chips.
Number plates – make sure that your reg plates are clearly visible and meet the DVLA’s standards.
Make sure all the bodywork is intact – it's important that it is in good condition, pay attention to any loose pieces that could fall off.
Horn and seatbelt – ensure that your horn is still effective and can be heard by other drivers. Also check that all seatbelts are still working correctly.
Key fluids – check your engine oil, brake fluid and coolant levels are all at the correct levels and top up if needed.
Get a second opinion – if you are in doubt about anything that could fail, enlist the help of a professional. While it’s an extra cost, it could save you from more costly repairs and time off the road in the long run.
Time to upgrade your van?
At Vansdirect, we help to keep you informed on all aspects of being a van owner, including van MOTs, servicing and maintenance. But we can also help you find a great deal on your next van.
With our wide range of vans, including small, medium and large vans – you won’t be short on choice. Our van finance options also help you drive away in a new van on your terms.
From van leasing deals to Contract Hire, Hire Purchase, and Van Fleet Leasing, contact us today to find the right one for your business.
You can also get a helping hand towards the cost of your new van with Sell My Van. Get a free, instant valuation by entering your reg now.