Motors: MOT vs servicing: what’s the difference?
When it comes to car maintenance, two terms often come up: MOT and servicing. Here’s a guide to understanding the differences
Maintaining a car is a crucial aspect of vehicle ownership to ensure its longevity and safety on the road. When it comes to car maintenance, two terms often come up: MOT and servicing. While they both involve keeping your vehicle in good condition, they serve different purposes and have distinct procedures.
MOT Testing
MOT testing is a legal requirement in many countries, including the United Kingdom, where it originated. The primary purpose of the MOT test is to assess the safety, roadworthiness, and environmental impact of a vehicle. It is mandatory for most vehicles over three years old and must be conducted annually. Here’s what an MOT test involves:
1. Safety Checks: During an MOT test, trained technicians inspect various safety aspects of your vehicle, such as brakes, lights, seatbelts, and tyres. They ensure that these components meet the required standards to ensure your safety while driving.
2. Environmental Checks: The MOT test also includes emissions checks to determine if your vehicle meets the environmental standards set by the government. This is essential to reduce harmful emissions and protect the environment.
3. Documentation: After a successful MOT test, you receive a certificate confirming that your vehicle has passed. Without a valid MOT certificate, you cannot legally drive your car on public roads.
Servicing
Car servicing, on the other hand, is a broader and more comprehensive maintenance process. It involves regular checks and maintenance tasks designed to keep your vehicle running smoothly and prevent potential issues. Here’s what a typical car servicing includes:
1. Oil Change: Regularly changing the engine oil and oil filter is vital for the proper functioning of the engine. It helps maintain engine efficiency and reduces wear and tear.
2. Filter Replacements: Air filters, fuel filters, and cabin filters are replaced or cleaned during servicing to ensure proper air circulation, fuel flow, and a clean cabin environment.
3. Brake Inspection: Servicing includes checking the condition of the brakes, including brake pads, discs, and fluid levels, to ensure they are functioning correctly.
4. Fluid Checks: Technicians check and top up various fluids, including coolant, transmission fluid, and power steering fluid.
5. Tyre Maintenance: Tyre pressure, tread depth, and overall tyre condition are assessed during servicing to ensure optimal handling and safety.
6. Electrical System: The electrical system, including the battery, lights, and wiring, is inspected to prevent electrical issues.
In short, while an MOT test primarily focuses on the safety, roadworthiness, and environmental impact of your vehicle to ensure it complies with legal standards, servicing is a more comprehensive maintenance process that aims to keep your car running smoothly and prevent potential problems. Both are essential for maintaining a safe and reliable vehicle. It’s important to note that passing an MOT test does not replace the need for regular servicing, as servicing addresses a broader range of maintenance needs.
To keep your car in the best possible condition, it’s advisable to adhere to both MOT testing and regular servicing schedules. If your MOT is due and you are on the lookout for a garage then we recommend KAP Motors. At KAP Motors, MOTs are available with prices starting as low as just £25. Ensure your car’s certification today!
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