Frequently asked questions - the MoT

We are asked about many subjects in the Dutton Owners Club, and these pages are aimed to help you find some of the answers to the most commonly asked questions. All these FAQs are from our members and the DOC accepts no liability for the information following. These methods have been used by our members, but people who are unsure should consult a qualified specialist (eg: welder, engineer, mechanic) if they require further information.
If you can't find the information you need here, you may also post a general question on
the online Q&A page.

Click on the links below to go direct to the relevant section.

MOT Tests

For detailed information on what is included in the test and reasons for failure, locations of MOT test stations then have a look at The Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) web site www.vosa.gov.uk and also www.motuk.co.uk

If you have any trouble with the above or any other points regarding testing your kit then VOSA would be most interested to hear, and have a ‘chat’ with the testing station. For information on VOSA see their web site www.vosa.gov.uk from which the following information is taken.

There is often confusion about MOT tests for kits so a few of the common questions along with answers which to the best of our knowledge are correct. If not then please let us know, thank you.

What year is my kit tested as?
The year it is registered NOT when built, so if it has the donor vehicle registration number it will be earlier than built and a Q plate will probably be when built.

My kit failed due to the emissions, what should they be since I don’t know the age of my engine?
For emissions purposes only, kit cars and amateur built vehicles first used before 1 August 1998 and Wankel rotary-engined vehicles first used before 1 August 1987 are to be considered first used before 1 August 1975. Kit cars and amateur built vehicles first used on or after 1 August 1998 ("S" reg) are required to obtain Single Vehicle Approval and should be tested to the limits stated on the registration document.” The test for “first used before 1 August 1975” is “VISUAL TEST”. This information is taken from the MOT Inspection Manual Section 7.3 issue date August 2004. A pdf of the page in the manual is on members only pages.

Do I need an exterior mirror?
Only if your vehicle was first used on or after 1 August 1978 when an exterior mirror is required to be fitted to the offside (right-hand side when seated in the driver's seat). You can fail if the mirror is not clearly visible from the driver's seat, or incapable of being adjusted to be clearly visible from the drivers seat.

Do I need a rear fog lamp?
Yes if your vehicle was first used on or after 1 April 1980.  The inspection of rear fog lamps is confined to the one rear fog lamp which is required to be fitted to the centre or offside and operates with dipped head lamps and the ignition switched on. An indicator (tell tale) lamp is required on the dash so you know the fog lamp is on.

Do I need hazard lights?
A hazard warning device is not required by regulation, but, if one is fitted, it must be tested, including tell tale lamp.

Do I need a reversing lamp?
As for hazards lights, but a good idea to have so other road or car park users know what you’re doing.

Can I repair a cracked lamp?
You can fail if a lamp is not in good working order, an effective proprietary repair {e.g. lens repair tape, etc) must be assessed on its merits, considering security, colour, light output and durability

For detailed information on what is included in the test and reasons for failure, locations of MOT test stations then have a look at www.motuk.co.uk 

If you have any trouble with the above or any other points regarding testing your kit then the Vehicle Inspectorate would be most interested to hear, and have a ‘chat’ with the testing station. For information on the Vehicle Inspectorate see their web site www.via.gov.uk from which the following information is taken.

Complaints
If you are unhappy with the way your test was conducted please complain to the Area Manager at your local Vehicle Inspectorate office (their address is displayed on a poster at the test station). We want to hear about unsatisfactory aspects of performance as these assist us in our monitoring of the MOT scheme.

What if I think it has wrongly failed?
You must complete an appeal form (VT17) obtainable from any MOT testing station or by calling the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA), on 0845 600 5977. These completed forms need to be returned to one of our offices within 14 working days of the test along with a full test fee. We will then offer an appointment within 5 working days to recheck your vehicle. If your appeal is successful some or all of the test fee will be refunded to you. Do not have your vehicle repaired before your appeal is considered. This is because any change to your vehicle may affect the outcome of the appeal.

Contacting VOSA
The address of the local VOSA office is displayed in MOT testing stations or can be obtained from the general enquiry unit on 0845 600 5977 (local rate) or 0870 60 60 440 (national rate). Online at
www.vosa.gov.uk

 

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Updated Oct 2004