Right, I'm due an MOT in the next month so I'm trying to prep the car to breeze it.



1) Reading the MOT manual it says on http://www.motuk.co.uk/manual_210.htm to "Check the presence and security of retaining and locking devices. Note: The inspection is not concerned with the type of locking device, only its presence and security."

Does this mean I need a steering lock even though one wasn't required for SVA? Or does this basically mean "check the steering wheel is securely fastened to the steering column"?


2) I have a stick on front number plate (non-standard font) and non-standard rear plate. I intend to buy standard plates and swap the rear, but what about the front (there's nowhere to mount it without it being knocked off). Is it sufficient to take it with me and say "I have one, but nowhere to put it!" Or with it being a Q plate will they even pass the stick-on?



3) I've never been able to get a perfect seal between my manifold and collector. However according to http://www.motuk.co.uk/manual_710.htm there's a note "Note: A minor exhaust leak from, for example, a connection joint or a pin hole, is not a Reason for Rejection"

I guess I should be okay with this, dependant on how they define "minor leak"?



4) I think my headlights need aiming. I'm going to try the compare against garage wall with another car trick, but I assume fine adjustments can be made at the MOT station?



5) Lastly not a question, just fingers crossed I get the visual smoke only test since I'm a Q-Plate! The SVA limits are listed in the "special notes" secion on the front of my V5, but the dedicated emissions boxes inside the V5 itself are blank (and I'd assume the computer would use these).



Of course I've wobbled and tapped wheels/mounts etc and everything seems solid.

TBH a lot of it depends on the tester. If you know the mot place reasonably well it might be worth calling and having a word. My local place is quite sensible, im sure the points you have queried wouldnt be a concern there.

1) Reading the MOT manual it says on http://www.motuk.co.uk/manual_210.htm to "Check the presence and security of retaining and locking devices. Note: The inspection is not concerned with the type of locking device, only its presence and security."

Does this mean I need a steering lock even though one wasn't required for SVA? Or does this basically mean "check the steering wheel is securely fastened to the steering column"?

Hi ya , no steering lock is reqired , as long as the system is fully secured then there is no issues .

2) I have a stick on front number plate (non-standard font) and non-standard rear plate. I intend to buy standard plates and swap the rear, but what about the front (there's nowhere to mount it without it being knocked off). Is it sufficient to take it with me and say "I have one, but nowhere to put it!" Or with it being a Q plate will they even pass the stick-on?

As far as the number plate is concened as long as it is readable from 20 metres then no probs , if not then you will need to mound one some where , taking one in with you is no good at all as it needs to be fixed securely to the car.

3) I've never been able to get a perfect seal between my manifold and collector. However according to http://www.motuk.co.uk/manual_710.htm there's a note "Note: A minor exhaust leak from, for example, a connection joint or a pin hole, is not a Reason for Rejection"


Minor leak of exhaust gas is ok , as long as it does not make the emmissions fail then no probs


I am an mot tester so any more questions then feel free to ask / u2u

Hope it help

Davrus