MOT Brake Test: Key Components That Are Inspected


MOT is a legal test in the UK for all vehicles that are over 3 years old. The purpose of this test is to ensure that all the vehicles in the UK are roadworthy and comply with all the legal and environmental standards. So, skipping this test will not only jeopardise the safety of the driver, passenger and others on the road. It is important to note that driving a car without a valid MOT certificate is illegal. And hence, if the car owner gets caught driving a vehicle without an MOT certificate, they could face a hefty fine, get penalty points on the licence and even get the car insurance voided. This blog discusses the tests that are conducted on brakes during an MOT test.

Brake Inspection Points in an MOT Test

Brakes are the most critical components of a car, which is why they are inspected carefully. Let’s take a look at the key parts that are checked during the MOT testing Stockport brake test.

1. Pedal and Brake Condition and Operation

Brakes are the most important part of a car, and so when the car is taken to the MOT centre, the first thing after checking the identification of the car is that the MOT tester starts by inspecting the condition of the braking pads. They make sure the brake pads aren’t completely worn out or severely damaged. Also, they make sure the brake pedal doesn’t feel too soft or spongy.  Soft and spongy brakes mean there is air in the brake line. This can actually increase the braking distance of the car, increasing the risk of road accidents.

2. Master Cylinder and Brake Servo

The master cylinder and brake servo are extremely important for cars to stop smoothly. The master cylinder sends the braking force to the wheels, and the brake servo helps make braking easier. Without these two functioning properly, it is difficult to smoothly stop the car. The car may jerk and take longer to stop, or even take extra effort from the driver. The MOT testers inspect these two parts carefully to ensure they are functioning properly.

3. Accuracy of the Brake Fluid Levels

The level of brake fluid is checked by the MOT tester to ensure the car’s braking functions properly.  If the brake fluid is low, then it becomes hard for the driver to stop the car immediately.  A low level of brake fluid also causes spongy or springy brakes, increasing the braking distance of the vehicle and raising the risk of road accidents.

4. Brake Performance (Efficiency Test)

The MOT tester also checks the effectiveness of the brakes, or how well the car stops after the brakes are pressed.  The MOT tester checks the efficiency of the brakes by using a machine called a rolling road brake tester.  The tester checks that both the front and back wheels stop correctly without any hiccups when the brake is pressed.

5. Brake Imbalance

Brake imbalance often leads to road accidents. This happens because the driver loses control over the car due to its unpredictability. It is highly recommended to never drive a car that has a brake imbalance, as the risk of accidents is extremely high.  An example of brake imbalance is the car leaning towards the left or right side.  This happens because either the left wheels or the right wheels don’t halt at the same time after the brake is pressed. In such cases, brake repair Stockport is essential to pass the MOT test.

6. Brake Pipes and Hoses

Transferring the brake fluid from the master cylinder to the brakes properly is crucial. Hoses and brake pipes play an important role in ensuring the process is carried out smoothly. Hence, the tester makes sure to look for any wear, corrosion, cracks, and leaks on these parts. If brake pipes and hoses are not in proper condition or are loose, then the flow of the brake fluid to the master cylinder will be hindered. To pass the MOT test, the vehicle has to have proper brake pipes and hoses.

7. Brake Pads, Discs, and Drums

When a car has been driven for many years, the brake pads, drums, and discs start to wear out. A car will fail the MOT test if these parts are not in proper condition or damaged. The MOT tester checks these parts to make sure they are within the legal limit.

8. Handbrake (Parking Brake)

Handbrakes are also an important part of a car.  Handbrakes are particularly useful to keep a car motionless on a hill or slope. The handbrakes are inspected by the MOT test. They carefully examine whether the handbrakes are capable of keeping the car still when parked on a rough road.

Conclusion

In the UK, every car that is older than 3 years must undergo and pass an MOT test. This test verifies if the vehicle is safe and compliant with DVSA (Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) regulations by examining all of its safety features. Brakes are the most critical components that an MOT tester carefully inspects for safe and confident driving. Hence, before going for an MOT test, it is important to make sure that the brakes of the vehicle are in good condition and are working properly. 
Location: Stockport, UK

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