Keeping your car roadworthy isn’t just about convenience—it’s a legal requirement. Every year, thousands of vehicles in the UK fail their MOT tests, often due to issues that could have been easily prevented with regular servicing. If you’re a driver in Croydon, knowing what gets checked during an MOT and service can save you time, money, and hassle.
At Autoveto, a trusted MOT and service provider in Croydon, our qualified technicians carry out a full range of checks to ensure your car not only passes its MOT but also stays reliable for everyday driving.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the 21 essential checks that are part of an MOT and service, why they matter, and how Autoveto helps Croydon drivers stay safe and compliant.
Why MOT and Service Go Hand-in-Hand
An MOT (Ministry of Transport test) is a legal requirement for vehicles over three years old. It ensures that your car meets the minimum safety and environmental standards. However, an MOT doesn’t cover everything that can affect performance and longevity.
That’s where servicing comes in. A regular service goes beyond the MOT checklist, checking components like oil filters, engine performance, and battery health to keep your vehicle running smoothly.
By combining both MOT and service at Autoveto Croydon, you save time and ensure your car gets a comprehensive health check—making it less likely to fail the MOT.
21 Essential Checks During MOT and Service in Croydon
When you book your MOT and service at Autoveto, here’s what our expert mechanics will check to keep your vehicle safe and legal:
Safety Checks
- Brakes (Pads, Discs & Handbrake)
Brakes are one of the most common MOT failure points. We test stopping distance, wear levels, and the effectiveness of the handbrake.
- Tyres
Your tyres must have at least 1.6mm of tread depth across the central three-quarters. We also check for bulges, cracks, and correct tyre pressure.
- Suspension & Shock Absorbers
Worn suspension can make your car unsafe to drive. Our technicians inspect for leaks, damage, and how well your suspension absorbs shocks.
- Steering System
We check the steering wheel, rack, and power steering fluid to ensure full control of the vehicle.
- Lights & Indicators
All exterior lights must work, including headlights, brake lights, indicators, fog lamps, and number plate lights. Alignment is also tested.
- Windscreen & Wipers
Cracks larger than 10mm in the driver’s line of sight can cause an MOT fail. We also check wipers and washer fluid.
- Seatbelts
Every seatbelt must lock securely and retract properly to meet safety standards.
- Horn
A working horn is vital for safety and is checked during the MOT.
- Mirrors & Visibility
We inspect wing mirrors, rear-view mirrors, and general visibility to ensure you can drive safely.
Performance & Mechanical Checks
- Engine Health
While the MOT doesn’t fully test the engine, our service includes checks for leaks, noises, and smooth running.
- Battery & Electrical System
We test the battery’s charge, cables, and alternator to prevent breakdowns.
- Exhaust System
Your exhaust must be secure, not excessively noisy, and free of leaks.
- Clutch & Gearbox
We check for smooth gear changes and ensure the clutch engages correctly.
- Fuel System
Hoses and pipes are checked for leaks or damage, as fuel leaks are a serious safety risk.
- Fluid Levels
Oil, brake fluid, coolant, and screen wash are topped up as part of the service.
- Drive Shafts & CV Joints
These components are inspected for wear, lubrication, and secure fittings.
Emissions & Environmental Checks
- Exhaust Emissions Test
Your car must meet strict UK emission standards. We test CO₂ and other pollutants to ensure compliance.
- Catalytic Converter/DPF
Diesel and petrol cars are inspected for proper functioning of the catalytic converter or Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF).
- Underbody Condition
Rust and corrosion can weaken your vehicle. We examine the chassis and underbody for structural integrity.
- Number Plates
Plates must be visible, properly lit, and conform to DVLA standards.
- Overall Roadworthiness
Finally, our mechanics perform a full assessment to make sure your car is safe and ready for the road.
Common Reasons for MOT Failure in Croydon
Even though the checks are straightforward, many cars fail MOTs every year due to avoidable problems:
- Tyres worn below the legal limit.
- Brakes that are worn or unbalanced.
- Faulty lights and indicators.
- Windscreen cracks or worn wipers.
- Ignoring dashboard warning lights.
At Autoveto Croydon, we carry out a thorough pre-MOT check and service to fix these issues before your test, helping you avoid a costly failure.
Why Choose Autoveto for MOT and Service in Croydon?
When it comes to MOT and servicing, you need a garage you can trust. Here’s why Croydon drivers choose Autoveto:
- DVSA-Approved MOT Testing Centre: Your MOT is carried out to official UK standards.
- Expert Technicians: Our skilled mechanics have years of experience.
- Full MOT & Service Packages: Save time with combined bookings.
- Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees, just honest, upfront quotes.
- Convenient Location in Croydon: Easy access for local drivers.
- Quick Turnaround: Get back on the road faster.
How to Book Your MOT and Service with Autoveto
Booking with Autoveto is simple:
- Call our Croydon garage to book a slot.
- Book online through our easy scheduling system.
- Drop in to our Croydon location and speak to our team.
We recommend booking in advance, especially during busy MOT periods, to secure your preferred time.
Book your MOT and Service in Croydon with Autoveto today and drive with confidence.
Conclusion
Passing your MOT doesn’t have to be stressful. With regular servicing and the 21 essential checks covered, your car will stay safe, reliable, and compliant.
At Autoveto Croydon, we take care of everything from safety inspections to servicing and emissions checks, so you can enjoy peace of mind every time you drive.
Stay road-legal and safe. Book your MOT and Service in Croydon with Autoveto today.
