How often should you get an MOT and service? In the UK, every car over three years old needs an MOT once a year by law, while servicing is recommended every 6–12 months depending on mileage. These checks keep your vehicle safe, reliable, and efficient.
For drivers in Maidstone, Kent, knowing when to book your MOT and service is essential to avoid costly breakdowns and stay road legal. The MOT confirms your car meets safety and environmental standards, while servicing looks after the engine, brakes, and other vital parts.
In this guide, we’ll explain MOT and servicing intervals, why both matter, and how choosing a DVSA-approved MOT centre in Maidstone can help keep your car in top condition.
What Is an MOT?
An MOT is a statutory requirement in the UK for any vehicle over three years old. It assesses your car’s safety and environmental standards to meet the minimum legal requirements. The actual testing may vary depending on the vehicle’s age and typically includes checks on components such as brakes, tyres, lights, the exhaust system, and overall structural integrity.
In Maidstone, Kent, the MOT test is mandatory. To avoid fines and penalties, you should pay close attention to the due date of your next MOT test.
The Importance of a MOT Test
MOT testing is essential to ensure your vehicle’s roadworthiness and identify potential safety or environmental hazards from driving an untested vehicle. Periodic checks significantly reduce the risk of encountering hazardous conditions in your car, which could endanger you, your passengers, and other road users. In fact, many common MOT servicing issues arise from components that could have been checked or replaced earlier.
For residents of Maidstone, taking their car to a recognized MOT centre in Maidstone, Kent ensures the vehicle is tested to the highest standards. A reliable Maidstone MOT centre will follow all proper procedures, giving you complete peace of mind that your car is safe.
How Often Should You Have an MOT Test?
According to the law, a car must undergo an MOT test every 12 months after it reaches three years of age. This ensures that the vehicle is running safely and meets legal emissions standards.
1. Initial MOT: The new cars will undergo their first MOT three years after registration. This will be the first official inspection of your car’s state.
2. Following MOT: The car must be tested annually following the initial MOT. The MOT test in Maidstone ensures that your automobile remains road legal and its emission levels meet the required standards.
3. Late or Missed MOTs: A fine or penalty may be imposed if you fail to carry out an MOT test on the scheduled date or if the vehicle’s certificate is not renewed on time. Therefore, it is essential to know when your car is due for its MOT to avoid penalties and ensure its roadworthiness.
You can learn more about the legal side in our post on whether it’s legal to drive without an MOT.
Preventive maintenance also allows mechanics to identify potential issues before they turn into costly repairs. This not only helps prevent unexpected breakdowns but also extends the lifespan of your vehicle.
How Often Should You Service Your Car?
In contrast to MOTs, which are required annually, cars typically need servicing every 6 to 12 months, depending on their age, make, and model. More frequent servicing may be necessary if the vehicle is heavily used for driving, long-distance travel, or operates in harsh conditions.
Following the Manufacturer’s Recommendations: It is advisable to follow the recommended service intervals provided by the manufacturer. These guidelines are in the car owner’s manual and tailored to your vehicle’s requirements.
Types of Services: Vehicle servicing includes various types such as minor service, full service, and major service. While a full service is typically recommended every 12 months, depending on the vehicle’s usage, some cars, especially high-mileage vehicles, may require interim minor services every 6 months.
What is Checked During an MOT?
During your MOT test, a certified tester will inspect several key areas of your vehicle to ensure it meets legal safety and environmental standards. These include:
- Brakes: A thorough check of the braking system and components to ensure proper function and response.
- Tyres: Inspection for minimum tread depth (1.6mm) and overall condition, ensuring they are free from damage or defects.
- Lights: Verification that headlights, brake lights, indicators, and other external lights are functioning correctly.
- Windscreen & Wipers: Ensure the wipers work effectively and the windshield is free from significant cracks or damage that could impair the driver’s view.
- Suspension: Assessment of suspension components for wear and tear, which can affect vehicle handling and ride comfort.
- Exhaust System & Emissions: Check the exhaust system for leaks and ensure emissions fall within legal environmental limits.
- Battery & Electrical Systems: This involves inspecting the battery’s condition and confirming that essential electrical systems, including the horn and dashboard warning lights, operate properly.
If these checks fail, your vehicle will not pass the MOT test. Regular servicing by a certified mechanic helps identify and address these issues early, preventing costly repairs and ensuring your car remains roadworthy.
What’s Done During a Car Service?
While the MOT is concerned with safety and legality, the vehicle service is concerned with the vehicle’s mechanical condition.
Depending on the service level chosen, a mechanic will do an in-depth inspection and maintenance of your car, including the following:
- Oil and Filter Change: Fresh oil ensures the engine runs smoothly.
- Air and Fuel Filters: Clean your filters for improved engine performance and efficiency.
- Tyre Check: Inspecting for any signs of wear and tear or alignment issues.
- Fluid Levels: Operation levels for coolant, brake fluid, and the other vital fluids.
- Brake Check: Inspect brake pads, discs, and the entire brake system for optimal performance.
Many good MOT Maidstone garage services also offer vehicle servicing. Therefore, it is a good idea for the customer to have the MOT and service performed together so that the vehicle is in the best possible condition. Keeping the car serviced regularly will also help identify potential problems early, prevent expensive repairs in the future, and improve fuel efficiency.
How Often Should You Get an MOT in Maidstone?
In Maidstone, Kent, you must have an MOT every 12 months once your vehicle is over three years old. Book your MOT test in Maidstone at a reliable MOT centre. MOT tests are in high demand, especially when many cars are due for annual checks, so booking early helps avoid last-minute stress.
How Often Should You Get a Service in Maidstone?
Servicing intervals vary by vehicle, but a full service is generally recommended every 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. However, more frequent servicing may be necessary if you drive extensively or in harsh conditions. Consult your vehicle’s manufacturer guidelines and speak with your local Maidstone MOT centre or service provider for expert advice on the appropriate service schedule for your car.
Conclusion
When it comes to your vehicle’s health, an MOT test and regular servicing are two crucial steps you can take to ensure your car remains safe, efficient, and reliable. You can also check out our breakdown of MOT costs in Maidstone so you can budget ahead of time.
For residents of Maidstone, Kent, choosing a trusted Maidstone MOT centre for your MOT and service needs is essential for your peace of mind. Schedule your MOT test in Maidstone every 12 months and keep up with regular servicing based on your vehicle’s requirements.
By staying on top of these essential car maintenance tasks, you’ll ensure your car stays in peak condition and avoid unnecessary breakdowns, costly repairs, and potential legal issues. Select an experienced MOT provider to ensure your vehicle remains in top condition