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If your vehicle is over three years old, it legally requires an MOT test each year to confirm it meets the minimum safety and environmental standards.

Whether your MOT is due soon or has expired, search for MOT services in East Malling with Checkatrade for a commitment to quality and a job done right.

What is an MOT?

An MOT (Ministry of Transport) test is a legal requirement for most vehicles over three years old.

The inspection covers key safety and emissions checks, including:

• Brakes
• Tyres
• Lights
• Steering
• Exhaust systems

Check out our MOT guide for a full list of the checks you can expect.

Once your vehicle passes, you’ll receive an MOT certificate confirming it’s safe and roadworthy for another 12 months.

What if your vehicle fails its MOT?

Failing an MOT means repairs are needed before the vehicle can pass.

Many garages can carry out the necessary fixes and re-test your vehicle on-site, saving time and hassle.

How much does an MOT cost?

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For more detailed pricing, take a look at our MOT cost guide.

MOT vs vehicle servicing

While both MOTs and vehicle servicing help keep your car safe and reliable, they are not the same.

• An MOT checks your car against legal safety and environmental standards, ensuring it’s roadworthy
• A service is optional, but a good idea — it includes changing fluids, filters, and parts that help prevent breakdowns

Many garages offer combined MOT and service packages, which can save you time and reduce costs compared to booking them separately.

How long does an MOT take?

Most MOT tests take between 45 minutes and an hour to complete. If your car fails, additional time will be needed for repairs and retesting.

To avoid delays, consider booking your MOT at least a few weeks before your current certificate expires. This gives you time to fix any issues and still keep your renewal date.

Common MOT issues

Some of the most common issues highlighted by an MOT include:

• Worn brake pads or discs
• Faulty lights or indicators
• Tyres below the legal tread depth
• Windscreen wiper or washer faults
• Emission test failures

Simple maintenance checks — such as replacing bulbs, topping up fluids, and ensuring tyres are properly inflated — can help reduce the risk of MOT failure.

What should be included in your quote?

When comparing quotes from MOT garages in East Malling, ensure the following details are covered:

• The total MOT test fee (including VAT)
• Any potential costs for retesting if the vehicle fails
• Additional charges for repairs or parts replacement
• Whether a combined MOT and service package is available

A transparent, detailed quote helps you compare services fairly and ensures you know exactly what you’re paying for.

Tips for booking an MOT service in your area

Before booking MOT services near you, follow these steps to help make the process smoother:

• Read reviews on Checkatrade to see feedback from real customers
• Check which vehicle types are tested (e.g., cars, vans, or motorcycles)
• Compare a few quotes to ensure you receive a fair and competitive rate

For garages committed to quality and a job done right, search for MOT testing services in East Malling with Checkatrade.