MOTs

This is the newest department at Three Arch Garage. After many years of careful planning, we have now built and equipped the latest VOSA standard ATL (Automotive Test Lane) MOT centre.

About our MOT Test Centre

This facility is capable of testing Class 4,5 Class 7 this includes motor cars, vans, motor homes, mini buses and light goods vehicles up to 3500kgms.

Our Redhill premises are very spacious and have ample room for parking and turning.

Same Day MOT in Redhill

We run a booking system but are capable of fitting in up 20 MOTs a day, so we can usually fit you in at short notice.

 

Traditional Values - Modern Expertise

It is important to us that you get an efficient and fair service so that you feel happy to return to us when required. Remember our moto Traditional Values - Modern Expertise

What is an MOT Test?

All cars over three years old have to have an MOT test to demonstrate that they roadworthy. There are dozens of checks on your car, from the brakes and fuel system to lights, mirrors, seatbelts, windscreen wipers and exhaust system. It usually takes between 45 and 60 minutes to do an MOT test, but bear in mind that if it fails you’ll need to allow time to complete the repairs.

How much does an MOT cost?

The Vehicle and Operator Services Agency sets the maximum fee official test centres can charge for an MOT. This maximum charge is currently £54.85 for cars and motor caravans and £58.60 for large vans.  If you are looking for a cheap MOT test – give us a call!

What happens if my car fails its MOT?

If we see failures during your MOT test, you’ll need to get them fixed before we can issue with a passed certificate. We’ll give you a VT3O Certificate showing the reasons for the fail. If you do not still have a valid MOT certificate you will not be able to drive the car on the road.

In the event that your car fails its MOT we’ll talk you through why it has failed and what needs to be done to get you back on the road. If repairs are needed we’ll give you a competitive quote to complete them, but you are not obliged to have the repairs carried out with us.

A car can fail its MOT for two reasons:

A Dangerous Fault:

Your car cannot be driven until the fault is resolved. We will provide you with a quote for the repairs, or you can ask another garage to tow the car away to complete the repairs elsewhere.

A Major Fault:

We will provide you with a quote for the repairs, or you can ask another garage to complete the repairs. You’ll be able to drive the car to another garage for the repairs if you wish with an existing passed MOT.

If you drive a car without an MOT under any other circumstances, or drive a car with dangerous faults, you can be fined £2,500, be banned from driving and get three points on your licence.

Avoiding MOT failure – Quick and Easy Checks

2/5 cars fails their MOT the first time, and it is very often due to small maintenance tasks that most people are able to carry out themselves. Here’s a few things you can do before your MOT test:

  1. Top up the screen wash, and check that your wipers are clearing the screen well.
  2. Check all your lights are working. In some cars changing a bulb is very easy and can be done yourself. If you’re not sure how to do it, ask us when you bring your car in and we’ll help.
  3. Clear up clutter, dirt and any other hazards in the car that could obstruct your view (like dirt on the mirrors), create a distraction (air fresheners or stickers in the windscreen), or be dangerous if it fell from the seats or parcel shelf.
  4. Wipe down the registration plate and check your personalised plate complies with DVLA rules for type face and letter spacing.
  5. Check for warning lights on the dashboard and get any issues resolved before you request your MOT test.
  6. Check your tyres – they have to be in good condition and sufficiently inflated for the car to stop and corner safely. If you’re in doubt, don’t hesitate to ask.
  7. Look for damage in the windscreen. Small chips can be repaired by a professional, but large chips or cracks mean you need to replace your windscreen. This is usually covered by your insurance. Ask us for advice if you’re in any doubt.
  8. Check your seatbelts for damage and they fasten correctly.
  9. Top up fuel and engine oil – there needs to be sufficient quantities for us to test your car’s emissions levels properly.
  10. Check the horn – it has to be in working order and loud enough to attract attention.