Copyright © 2024. All rights reserved.
Looking for reliable, on-the-spot MOT testing?
Auto X Limited provides round-the-clock opportunity to Book an MOT services at one of the top testing centres in Ashford, Surrey. Moreover, when you book both an MOT and a service at the same time, you instantly unlock a lower rate. Consequently, you save money, enjoy added convenience, and complete everything in one smooth visit.
Class 7 MOT Testing for Vans and Light Commercial Vehicles
Auto X Limited conducts Class 7 MOT tests for vans and light commercial vehicles weighing between 3,000 and 3,500kg.
We’ve designed our testing bays to handle larger vehicles and dual-purpose vans that require more robust inspections.
Booking is easy—just enter your vehicle details, select your preferred date, and confirm online.
When Is Your MOT Due and Not sure when your MOT expires?
You can check using your previous MOT certificate or visit the official GOV.UK website.
To maintain your renewal date and schedule your MOT up to 1 month (minus a day) before expiration.
For example, if your expiry is 27th June and you can test as early as 28th May and keep the same renewal date for the following year.
How Long Does an MOT Take?
The MOT test typically takes 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Relax in our customer lounge, complete with free WiFi and cozy seating, while we test your car.
Understanding the MOT Test
What’s an MOT and Why Is It Important?
An MOT is a legal requirement in the UK for vehicles over 3 years old (and in some cases, over 1 year). It confirms that your car meets the DVSA’s road safety and environmental standards, helping you stay safe and compliant.
What the MOT Covers
It covers a wide range of checks including:
Note: The MOT is not the same as a vehicle service — it does not cover mechanical repairs.
The test only reflects the condition of your vehicle on the day of inspection.
If your car passes, you’ll get a certificate and a note listing any minor issues.
If it fails, we’ll list any major or dangerous faults. Our technicians can complete repairs on-site when possible, and we may offer a free re-test.
How Often Do You Need to Book an MOT?
Once your vehicle is over 3 years old, it needs an MOT every year. Certain vehicles, such as taxis and ambulances, must undergo annual MOT tests starting from their first year.
How Early Can You Book an MOT?
You can take your MOT up to 28 days early without affecting the expiry date. This allows you to extend your MOT coverage to as much as 13 months in one test cycle.
Do Electric or Hybrid Cars Need an MOT?
Yes, all electric and hybrid vehicles over 3 years old must have a valid MOT certificate. The only distinction is that electric vehicles don’t require an emissions test. Auto X Limited’s centre is fully equipped to test both hybrid and electric models.
Can You Drive Without a Valid MOT?
No. Driving without an MOT can lead to:
Our advice? Don’t risk it. To avoid penalties and ensure your safety, we strongly advise against driving without a valid MOT.
What Do You Need to Bring?
Just your vehicle. We access your MOT history through the DVSA system, so there’s no paperwork required.
Why Book a Service with Your MOT?
Pairing your service with an MOT is a smart move. Our technicians will inspect, refresh, and prepare your car for safe driving—all in one visit. This includes:
It’s efficient, affordable, and gives you peace of mind.
What We Check During an MOT?
Here’s what our DVSA-approved testers will inspect:
• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) – Present and readable
• Registration Plate – Clean, secure, and correctly formatted
• Lights – Functionality, security, headlamp aim
• Steering & Suspension – Operation and safety
• Wipers & Washers – Clear view of the road
• Windscreen – Checked for chips or cracks
• Horn – Working properly
• Seatbelts – Secure, functional, and in place
• Seats – Checked for stability
• Fuel System – Free of leaks, cap seals securely
• Exhaust & Emissions – Within legal limits
• Bodywork – Free from unsafe corrosion or sharp edges
• Doors – Open and close correctly
• Mirrors – Secure and undamaged
• Wheels & Tyres – Correct size, tread depth, and condition
• Brakes – Condition, operation, and efficiency
MOT Test Centre Near Me
Auto X Limited is proud to offer one of the best-equipped MOT centres in Surrey, UK.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The MOT test checks that your vehicle meets road safety and environmental standards.
Specifically, you must get an MOT for your vehicle by either:
Firstly, the third anniversary of its registration
Alternatively, the anniversary of its last MOT, if it’s over 3 years old
In contrast, ambulances, taxis, or private passenger vehicles with more than 8 seats must undergo testing when they are one year old.
Therefore, authorities can fine you up to £1,000 for driving a vehicle without a valid MOT.
Vehicles that haven’t reached the age for their first MOT don’t require one.
Exempt vehicles
Other vehicles that don’t need an MOT include:
- Cars and motorcycles made before 1960
- Goods vehicles powered by electricity
- Tractors
A list of exempt types of vehicles is on form V112. If your vehicle appears on the list, fill in the form to tax it.
Your vehicle can either pass or fail the MOT. If it fails, you’ll receive a list of repairs needed.
Passing the MOT
If your vehicle passes the MOT:
- You’ll get an MOT certificate from the test centre
- The MOT centre will record it in the MOT database.
Mileage reading
The MOT certificate will show the mileage recorded at the current and previous 3 test passes. The certificate shows this as the ‘odometer reading and history’.
Report any mistakes with the latest reading to the MOT centre within 7 days. They will give you a replacement certificate.
You can’t change mistakes made on an earlier mileage.
Failing the MOT
If your vehicle fails the MOT:
- You’ll get a ‘refusal of an MOT test certificate’ from the test centre
- The MOT centre will record it in the MOT database.
You can appeal the result if you think it’s wrong.
Driving a vehicle that failed
You must not drive the vehicle on the road if it fails the test, even if the MOT hasn’t run out, except to:
- Have the failed defects fixed
- A pre-arranged MOT test appointment
You can be fined up to £2,500, be banned from driving and get 3 penalty points for driving a vehicle in a dangerous condition.
During the MOT, important parts on your vehicle will be checked to make sure they meet the legal standards.
You can watch the test from a viewing area but you’re not allowed to interrupt the tester.
The test does not cover the condition of the engine, clutch or gearbox.
For more information on which parts of your vehicle are tested, visit gov.uk/topic/mot/manuals
You can’t drive your vehicle on the road if the MOT has run out. You can be prosecuted if caught.
The only exceptions are to drive it:
- To or from somewhere to be repaired
- To a pre-arranged MOT test
In many cases, no.
If your car lacks a valid MOT and you’re involved in an accident, your insurer may reject your claim.
With ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) in use by police and road cameras, it’s easier than ever to get caught.
Don’t wait until it’s too late.
Other Services We Offer
You can also discover our variety of used cars online. Here you’ll be able to filter your results by make, price, age, mileage, and more, to find the right car for you. Full details and further images are displayed alongside each vehicle listing, so you can easily access all the information you need to help make your decision.