Do electric vehicles need an MOT?
Have you been considered switching to an electric vehicle? Well, you’re not the only one! As of February 2022, over 420,000 full electric vehicles were registered on UK roads and that figure is only set to grow.
Whilst you can enjoy the benefits of free road tax, access to EV only lanes and experience the satisfying feeling of helping the environment by not expelling toxic fumes. One thing that doesn’t change is the need for an MOT test on your EV.
Electric vehicles still have to pass an MOT test after three years just like any other vehicle on the road but unlike their diesel and petrol counterparts, EVs do not require an emissions test.
How does an MOT work for an electric vehicle?
- An electric vehicle is logged onto the official MOT test system the same way an internal combustion engine vehicle is.
- Whilst a petrol or diesel vehicle will be taken through an emissions test, there is no need to do this an EV, so you’ll move onto the next step.
- An MOT tester will then check all your lights work correctly, the seatbelts, windscreen wipers, etc. and examine the windscreen for cracks and chips.
- Your vehicle will then be raised into the air and the steering will be checked. The tester will spin each wheel freely to check the tyres and test for the correct bearing operation which also includes a full suspension check.
- The presence of rust will be looked for at any key mounting points and brackets. Interestingly, MOT testers aren’t allowed to remove anything to check for the presence of rust, so the big aerodynamic underbody panel on most EVs will stay put.
- Last of all is your standard brake check which applies to any vehicle.
Where can I get an electric vehicle MOT?
We carry out MOT tests for electric vehicles across 7 branches in Nottinghamshire at Arnold, Carlton, Colwick, Hucknall, Kirkby-In-Ashfield, Old Basford & West Bridgford.
How much does an MOT cost for an electric vehicle?
A Class 4 MOT costs £39 at any Lindleys Autocentres branch.
