Like any car registered in the United Kingdom, an EV must pass an MOT once it reaches three years old. From then on, it will be subject to the same annual test as a petrol or diesel vehicle.
The same? OK, not exactly. For starters, an electric car doesn’t need to pass an exhaust emissions test, because it produces no localised carbon dioxide (CO2). An EV won’t trouble the noise test’s decibel meter either, so that’s another thing not to worry about. The test takes less time, as there is no fuel system or exhaust for the mechanic to inspect.
Unfortunately, despite this simpler test, there is no price reduction for an electric car – so you’ll be charged anything up to the maximum fee of £54.85 for an MOT test. Some garages offer cheaper rates, though, particularly if the test is booked as part of an annual service.
When get I get an electric car MOT test?
Only test centres showing the official blue sign with three white triangles (pictured above) are permitted to carry out an MOT. All garages should be able to undertake the MOT test for an EV, although some may be reluctant or unable to tackle issues with the battery, motor or high-voltage wiring.
Contact your local test centre directly to book – just turning up isn’t advised. You can get an MOT test up to one month (minus a day) before your car’s certificate expires. Doing so. you will keep the same renewal date.
According to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), around 40 percent of cars fail the MOT at the first attempt. However, around half of all faults could be avoided by the driver carrying out some basic pre-MOT checks at home.
What is checked during an electric car MOT?
A full list of the areas examined during the MOT can be found on the GOV.UK website. Spending an hour or so checking through these items soon before your car is tested could save you time and money overall.
For example, it’s easy to test the operation of the lights, wipers and horn; the condition of the mirrors and number plates; and to measure the tyre tread depth. You might need the help of a friend to test the rear lights, (including brake and reversing lights), but most other items should be straightforward.
Just don’t leave everything until the night before the test is booked, in case you need to order new parts.
A surprising 30 percent of faults found during the MOT test relate to lighting and indicators. And 10 percent of all MOT failures are down to tyres, so make sure the rubber is undamaged and has a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm (preferably at least 3mm)
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