How Long Does an MOT Take? What to Expect During the Test
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How Long Does an MOT Take? What to Expect During the Test | GVE London – Blog

Discover how long an MOT test takes, what’s checked, and how GVE London offers hassle-free, same-day MOTs with luxury lounge access.

The concept of an MOT is great on paper. It is a test that ensures your car lives up to certain standards, which is great for the car and the environment. Then, why the dread around MOT tests? Well, it’s not because it’s complicated or doesn’t make sense; it just takes up the whole day. You must book an appointment and wait around till it’s done. However, how long does an MOT test actually take? And what happens while your car’s being checked? 

Cutting The Chase: Around 45 to 60 Minutes

Generally speaking, a standard MOT test takes only between 45 minutes to 1 hour. Now, remember, that is the best-case scenario. That entails that everything is perfect, no delays, and no repairs required. 

Cutting The Chase: Around 45 to 60 Minutes

But here’s the part that slows things down: if your car fails, the garage might need extra time for repairs and re-testing. Some issues can be fixed the same day. Others might need parts to be ordered. 

What Happens During the MOT Test?

This isn’t a full car service, so don’t expect them to change your oil or fix that squeaky wiper. The MOT test is strictly about roadworthiness and legal compliance.

Here’s what the technician checks:

1. Lights – indicators, brake lights, and headlights must all work properly

2. Tyres and wheels – including tread depth and general condition

3. Brakes – they’ll test how well your car stops

4. Exhaust emissions – making sure your car isn’t polluting more than allowed

5. Steering and suspension – the feel of your drive matters

6. Seatbelts, windscreen wipers, and mirrors – basic safety items

They’ll also check your registration plate, horn, and fuel system, among other things. It’s a long checklist, but it’s done pretty methodically.

MOT vs Car Servicing: What’s the Difference?

This confuses plenty of car owners. MOT test is a, well, test. A mandatory one at that, which checks whether your car meets the legal safety and environmental standards.

MOT vs Car Servicing: What's the Difference

Car servicing is a procedure of maintenance that keeps your vehicle running smoothly. 

This trips up a lot of drivers. An MOT isn’t the same as a car service. The MOT test is mandatory and checks whether your car meets legal safety and environmental standards.

Some places, especially those that handle car servicing in Uxbridge, let you combine the MOT test with a basic service, saving time and effort.

Read Also: The Importance of Regular MOT Tests for Your Supercar

Can I Wait While It’s Being Done?

If you book your MOT test from a luxury car service centre such as GVE London, you’ll be offered to wait in the luxury lounge. You can also choose to spend your time exploring our facility and car collection. 

For most garages, it is recommended to book early in the day. However, we offer MOT tests post 6 PM as well and you can schedule an appointment after work. That way, your work day isn’t interrupted. 

Do I Need to Do Anything Before the MOT?

Based on our experience, there are plenty of things that can be DIYed. For example, clean your number plates, top up washer fluids, check the functionality of seat belts, and make sure all lights are working. One can do these fairly easily and these require no technical knowledge. 

Picking the Right Garage

Not all garages are equal. Some are better with certain makes, others are faster or friendlier. Local garages offering car servicing in London or car servicing in Uxbridge usually provide online booking and same-day MOTs. If you’ve got a regular car service centre, they’ll often remind you when your MOT is due. Handy if you’re forgetful or just hate sorting paperwork.

Picking the Right Garage

Conclusion

An MOT can be a fairly smooth affair if you’re taking it to a trusted garage like GVE London. If your car is well-maintained, it should take less than an hour. If it’s not, we’ll ensure it is. It is best to just pair it up with a usual service. This way, you save yourself an extra trip. Furthermore, being enthusiasts, we not only perform the usual repairs and service but can work on customisation, wrapping and detailing as well. To know more, hop on a call with us today!

Frequently Asked Questions

CAN I DRIVE MY CAR IF THE MOT EXPIRES TODAY?

Only if you’re driving it to a pre-booked MOT appointment. Otherwise, no. Driving without a valid MOT can lead to fines, penalty points, and even invalidated insurance.

WHAT IF MY CAR FAILS THE MOT BUT I NEED IT FOR WORK?

You can’t legally drive it unless it’s to a garage for repairs. Some service centres offer courtesy cars or quick-fix services if the failure is minor. Always ask in advance.

HOW MUCH DOES AN MOT TEST COST?

The maximum a garage can charge for a standard car MOT is £54.85 (as of July 2025). Some places offer lower prices as part of servicing packages or seasonal promotions.

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