What’s the Difference Between MOT and Service?

MOT and Service differencesBeing the owner of a vehicle means you have a number of requirements to fulfil to ensure your car or van is safe and roadworthy. The MOT and service are two of the main checks that have to be conducted on a regular basis to ensure your vehicle is safe to drive, and that you, your passengers and other road users are safeguarded from preventable issues. Despite often being mentioned in the same breath, the MOT and the service are two very different tests. Here we look at each in detail so you can continue to be a responsible vehicle owner.

What is an MOT?

The Ministry of Transport or MOT test is an annual test that’s compulsory for every vehicle aged three years or older in the UK. The test is designed to confirm the safety and roadworthiness of a vehicle. Exhaust emissions are also recorded to ensure they are not excessive enough to harm the environment. Many important parts of your vehicle are checked during an MOT. The MOT test centre will be looking for confirmation that each meets the legal standards as set out by the latest legislation.

As part of your MOT test the following car parts will be tested:

  • Body / vehicle structure
  • Fuel system
  • Seats and seatbelts
  • Steering and suspensions
  • Windscreen, wipers and washers
  • Electrical wiring and battery
  • Lights and registration plates
  • Bonnet
  • Tyres and wheels
  • Brakes
  • Horn
  • Exhaust system and emissions
  • Mirrors
  • Doors
  • Boot / tailgate and towbar

The MOT test does not check the condition of your engine, clutch, gearbox or the vehicle’s general mechanical condition. If you would like these vital components checked, you should book in for a full vehicle service.

An MOT test generally takes between 45 minutes and 1 hour to complete. If your vehicle fails its test, the failed component(s) must be repaired and the vehicle retested until a pass result is obtained.

What is a car service?

A vehicle service may not be compulsory but it’s just as important as an MOT test. As well as helping you to uphold any warranty that you may have on your vehicle, a car service will help you to further ensure the safety of your vehicle and could even save you money. A full service takes care of your whole car, including areas of wear and tear, specific parts and fluids. Most services work through a 50 plus point checklist, which checks and adjusts specific vehicle components.

The exact service you receive will depend on your vehicle’s make and model. All vehicles however will receive checks and adjustments to the following as part of their service:

  • Engine oil and filter
  • Lights
  • Tyres
  • Exhaust
  • Brakes and steering
  • Hydraulic fluid and coolant
  • Cooling system
  • Suspension
  • Battery

Here at Collison Motoring Services, we use the comprehensive Bosch Car Service Schedule to offer quality servicing across three different levels. Whether choosing our bronze, silver or gold package, you can rest assured that your car is serviced to the highest standard.

Why MOT and car servicing are important

Your MOT test must be completed every year, and we recommend booking your car in for service annually too. Whilst your MOT test ensures that your vehicle and a set list of its components meet various legal requirements, your service will ensure your vehicle is in the best condition for the year ahead. A service gets into all the nooks and crannies that an MOT doesn’t, meaning everything from your engine to its coolant are covered.

Book in for an MOT test and service today by getting in touch with a member of our team.