MOTs - Bargain or Scam?

You only have to Google 'MOT scams' to read the tactics employed by some unscrupulous individuals. Special Offer MOTs designed to attract you - which potentially end up costing £100s of pounds in unecessary repairs.

At Sandown, our reputation for professionalism is second to non.

If the worst happens and your car should fail - we provide you with a full explanation and we are more than happy if you prefer to discuss the failed item with an independant person.

We provide you with free quotations. Our customers tell us that the fact we can fix your vehicle should it fail, does make life easier as the test, repair and retest takes place in one location .

Now we know you're not mechanics but....

did you know that most MOT failures result from something as simple as a blown bulb or worn wiperblade? Ensuring these are in good order before putting your car in for test will help minimise the risk of failure.

There are quite a few basic steps you can take before putting your vehicle in for test to avoid failure on a simple item........ for example, check lights, wiper blades, windscreen condition, registration plate etc.

Sandown Autopoint is a nominated MOT testing station by Elmbridge Borough Council

It might help you to know what we check for:

Vehicle identification number - a vehicle identification number must be permanently displayed and legible on a vehicle first used on or after 1 August 1980

Registration plate - condition, security, legibility and format of letters/numbers

Lights - condition, operation, security and correct colour. The headlamps will also be checked to see if the aim is correct

Steering and suspension - correct condition and operation

Wipers and washers - operate to give the driver a clear view of the road

Windscreen - condition and drivers view of the road

Horn - correct operation and type

Seatbelts - all seatbelts installed are checked for type, condition, operation and security. All compulsory seatbelts must be in place

Seats - front seats secure. Front and rear backseats can be secured in the upright position

Fuel system - no leaks, fuel cap fastens correctly and seals securely. The fuel cap will need to be opened. Make sure the key is available

Exhaust emissions - vehicle meets the requirement for exhaust emission. These vary on the age and fuel type of the vehicle

Exhaust system - complete, secure, without serious leaks and silences effectively

Vehicle structure - free from excessive corrosion or damage in specific areas. No sharp edges

Doors - open and close. Latch securely in closed position. Front doors should open from inside and outside the vehicle. Rear doors may need to be opened to gain access to testable items

Mirrors - presence, condition and security

Wheels and tyres - condition, security, tyre size and type, and tread depth. Spare tyres are not tested

Brakes - condition, operation and performance (efficiency test). Suitable vehicles will be tested on a roller brake tester. Vehicles such as those with permanent 4-wheel drive will be tested either on a suitable road using a properly calibrated and maintained decelerometer or, if one is installed at the test station, a plate brake tester