| When investing in a car, it is important to look at the | | | | 6.Wipers and washers and the windscreen; |
| cars past MOT certificates, so you know what you | | | | 7.Steering and suspension, the horn, seat belts and the |
| are actually buying. It will help you understand what | | | | seats. |
| condition the car is currently in and whether the car's | | | | 8.The MOT test will also analyse the car's fuel |
| state has altered over time. However, if the car is | | | | emissions, as well as inspect the registration plate and |
| under three years old, no past MOT certificates will be | | | | the car's Vehicle Identification Number. |
| available, since a car needs only to be tested every | | | | When looking at past MOT tests, it's important to look |
| year from its third year. Remember, when buying a | | | | for dramatic changes from year to year. A good way |
| used car to immediately ask for the current MOT | | | | to discover any alterations to the car's state is to |
| certificate from the seller, otherwise it might not be | | | | check that MOT mileage records are in line with |
| roadworthy. | | | | service records and to ensure that the mileage has |
| The past MOT certificates will demonstrate that the | | | | increased at a consistent rate each year. |
| car has met environmental and road safety standards, | | | | It's always best to ask the seller for the certificate; |
| however, it does not mean that the vehicle is safe and | | | | however, if the seller can not provide the current |
| roadworthy for the full year the certificate is valid. It is | | | | certificate at the present time, it might be best to |
| only a confirmation of the fact that vehicle is | | | | check online before you buy. All you need to provide is |
| roadworthy at that time. Hence, changes to the car | | | | the test number from the MOT certificate and the |
| can occur after the test for that year are completed, | | | | document reference number from the registration |
| so its very important that the used car is checked out | | | | certificate (V5C). If you are looking for the car's MOT |
| for any damages at the point of sale. Neither does the | | | | history, then a quick ring to VOSA will give you all the |
| test check the condition of the engine, clutch or | | | | information you need, including the list of repairs |
| gearbox, so it may be also of great importance to | | | | recommended at the point of MOT. |
| have these checked out. The MOT test will, however, | | | | A quick look at past MOT certificate will enable you to |
| examine: | | | | make a valid judgment on the performance of the car. |
| 1.The condition of the body and vehicle structure; | | | | However, if you are still worried about deterioration |
| 2.The fuel system; | | | | since the last MOT, it's a good idea to have the car |
| 3.The exhaust system; | | | | checked over either before or after purchase. If the |
| 4.Lights, doors, mirrors, the load security and the | | | | MOT is soon to run out after purchase, then make an |
| bonnet; | | | | appointment with you local test centre immediately. |
| 5.Brakes, tyres and wheels; | | | | |