What Is an MOT Test — and Why Does It Matter?
Let’s start with the basics: an MOT test (Ministry of Transport) is a legally required annual inspection that checks your vehicle meets UK road safety and environmental standards. If your car is over three years old, it must pass an MOT to be driven on the road.
No MOT? You’re not just playing with fire — you could face:
- Fines of up to £1,000
- Invalidated insurance
- A whole world of DVSA-related grief
It’s not just a tick-box test — it’s about keeping you safe, legal, and roadworthy.
When Is Your MOT Due? (And How to Check)
Your first MOT is due three years after your vehicle was registered, then every 12 months after.
🧠 Not sure when it’s due?
Head to the Gov.uk MOT checker — pop in your reg, and it’ll tell you when it runs out.
You can book your MOT up to 1 month before the expiry and keep the same renewal date. Handy.
👉 Don’t leave it till the last minute. If your MOT lapses, you’re off the road until it’s sorted.
What Does an MOT Actually Check?
At Tannadice Motors, we carry out DVSA-approved Class 4 and Class 7 MOTs. Here’s what gets inspected during your MOT:
| ✅ | What’s Checked |
|---|---|
| 🚨 | Lights, indicators, brake lights |
| 🛞 | Tyres & wheels (incl. tread depth) |
| 🔧 | Suspension & steering |
| 🛑 | Brakes & handbrake performance |
| 🌬️ | Exhaust system & emissions |
| 🪟 | Windscreen, washers, and wipers |
| 🔒 | Seatbelts & seats |
| 🪪 | Registration plate, VIN, and more |
It’s thorough — but it’s not a service. The MOT doesn’t cover your engine oil, clutch, or gearbox. That’s where servicing comes in. (And yes, we do that too.)
How Much Does an MOT Cost in Dundee?
The DVSA sets a maximum fee of £54.85 for a Class 4 MOT. At Tannadice, we keep our prices competitive and honest — no upselling, no mystery charges.
💬 Ask us about combo deals when you book an MOT and service together.
Can I Drive Without an MOT?
Short answer: No.
Long answer: Still no. Unless you’re driving to a pre-booked MOT appointment, you can’t legally drive your vehicle if the MOT has expired.
No MOT = 🚔 fine + 🔒 points + 😬 insurance void = 🚫 not worth it.
What Happens If My Car Fails the MOT?
Don’t panic. Around 40% of cars fail their MOT first time — and we’re here to help.
You’ll get a list of:
- Major or dangerous faults → fail
- Minor issues or advisories → pass, but worth fixing
If your car fails, we’ll give you:
- A clear explanation
- A competitive quote
- A free retest if we do the repairs
- Fast turnaround (we don’t mess around)
We fix it right — no bodges, no guesswork.
Class 4 vs Class 7 MOTs: What’s the Difference?
| MOT Class | Vehicle Type |
|---|---|
| Class 4 | Cars, small vans, light commercials up to 3,000kg |
| Class 7 | Heavier vans and commercial vehicles (3,000kg–3,500kg) |
Tannadice Motors is equipped to test both. Whether it’s your daily runabout or a full fleet of trades vans, we’ve got the ramps and know-how to sort it.
Why Choose Tannadice Motors for Your MOT in Dundee?
Here’s why locals trust us:
✅ DVSA-approved test centre
✅ Qualified testers who know what they’re doing
✅ Class 4 & Class 7 MOTs
✅ Digital colour-coded reminders (if you want one!)
✅ Friendly service and fast appointments
✅ No surprise bills — just clear advice
We’ve been keeping Dundee roadworthy for years — and your car’s next.
How to Book Your MOT with Tannadice Motors
🚀 It’s easy:
- 📞 Call us
- 🖥️ Use the online form
- 🗓️ Choose a time that suits you (early mornings and late afternoons available)
- 🧼 Wait in our comfy reception — or drop off and we’ll call you when it’s ready
Need repairs or a service too? No problem. Bundle it all together and get it done in one go.
Book your MOT in Dundee today → [Link to booking page]
How early can I book my MOT?
Up to 30 days before it’s due — you keep your renewal date.
What documents do I need?
None! We can look you up by registration.
Can I wait while it’s being done?
Absolutely — grab a coffee in the waiting area.
What if my car fails?
We’ll show you exactly what needs fixed and offer a quote. If we do the repairs, you get a free retest.
Do you send reminders?
Yes — just ask us to pop you on the system.
