Most people know they have a responsibility to MOT their vehicle every year, however, given the range of cars and vans on the road, you may want a clearer idea about the class of MOT that applies to yours.
An MOT test is a legal requirement to establish whether your vehicle meets the minimum safety requirements to be deemed roadworthy. Whilst it is not always convenient, it ultimately helps keep you and other road users safe.
What Are the Different Classes of MOT?
MOTs must be performed in certified MOT testing stations (those with an official blue sign featuring three white triangles). During an MOT, you can expect crucial safety features, including the brakes, lights, fuel system and exhaust to be inspected, as well as the level of vehicle emissions. Â
It is important to note that an MOT is not a substitute for regular car servicing, so you still need to ensure your vehicle is in good working condition between tests. An MOT, for example, will not test the functionality of the engine, gearbox or clutch.
Below is a breakdown of the various MOT classes:
Class 1
- Motorcycles, with or without sidecars (engine size up to 200cc)
Class 2
- Motorcycles, with or without sidecars (engine size over 200cc)
Class 3
- 3-wheel vehicles (up to 450kg unladen weight)
Class 4
- 3-wheeled vehicles (over 450kg unladen weight)
- Cars (up to 8 passenger seats)
- Motor caravans
- Quads (max unladen weight 400kg – for goods vehicles and max net power of 15kW)
- Dual-purpose vehicles
- Private hire and public service vehicles (up to 8 seats)
- Ambulances and taxis
- Private passenger vehicles and ambulances (9-12 passenger seats)
- Goods vehicles (up to 3,000kg design gross weight)
Class 4a
- Class 4 vehicles (9-12 passenger seats) with a seat belt installation check
Class 5
- Private passenger vehicles and ambulances (13-16 passenger seats, and more than 16 passenger seats)
- Play buses
5a
- Class 5 vehicles (13-16 passenger seats, and more than 16 passenger seats) with a seatbelt installation check
7
- Goods vehicles (over 3,000kg up to 3,500kg design gross weight)
MOT Classes FAQs
Do Horseboxes Require MOTs?
If the vehicle you are using is under 3.5 tons, then you will need a regular MOT. However, vehicles over this weight require an up-to-date plating certificate instead.Â
Which MOT Does a Motorhome Require?
A motorhome will require a Class 4 MOT, which is the most common type of MOT certificate found on the road.
MOT Classes: Final Thoughts
We hope this article has given you some insight into the different classes of MOT certification.
Remember, Stewarts MOT is a certified MOT provider available to answer any questions or queries you have regarding your vehicle MOT. Why not contact us today to find out more?
