When it comes to keeping your van or light commercial vehicle safe and legally compliant, the Class 7 MOT is an annual event you can’t afford to miss.
*This is a collaborative post
This MOT applies to vehicles weighing between 3,000kg and 3,500kg, like larger vans and pickups. It ensures your vehicle meets the required road safety and environmental standards. Whether you’re using your vehicle for work or family needs, good preparation can decide if you pass or fail.
Drivers think that an MOT is just a routine check. This is not always the case, especially for heavier vehicles that fall in the class 7 MOT category. These vehicles have a first higher standard placed on these vehicles and the inspection is also more detailed. Preparing your vehicle ahead of time not only saves time but can avoid the costs of repairs that can occur out of the blue and keeps your business or family life hassle free.
Before you head to your local garage, it’s wise to complete a few checks yourself. This preparation increases your chances of passing the first time. Ensure your van or light commercial vehicle is roadworthy with a professional Class 7 MOT at Dexel Tyre & Auto Centre, where trained specialists understand exactly what to look for. With their expert services, you can approach your MOT with confidence, knowing your vehicle is in safe hands.
Here’s an easy checklist to make sure you’re ready for your Class 7 MOT:
1. Check Your Lights: Make sure all lights – brake lights, indicators, and number plate lights – are working. Damaged bulbs are one of the most frequent MOT failures.
2. Check Tyres and Wheels: Your tyres should have a minimum tread depth of 1.6mm and should not be damaged in any way. Don’t forget to check for uneven wear, which may be a sign of suspension or alignment problems.
3. Check Brakes and Handbrake: Brakes should be responsive and not pull to one side. Ensure the handbrake keeps the car secure when parked uphill.
4. Clean Your Vehicle: A clean vehicle gives a good first impression. Also, ensure your number plates are legible and your windscreen free of chips or cracks in the driver’s line of vision.
5. Top Up Fluids: Ensure oil, brake fluid, Screen wash, and coolant levels are adequate. Low fluid levels can raise concerns during the MOT.
6. Suspension and steering: Unusual noises or knocks when driving could indicate worn suspensions, which is a common problem in Class 7 MOT failures.
7. Load and weight: If your van is for work, make sure it isn’t overloaded, as excess weight will affect the suspension, tyres and brakes. These components are all thoroughly checked during a Class 7 MOT.
Never forget, better safe than sorry. By giving yourself the time to do these checks before you go to your test, not only is it less stressful, but it has a better chance of ensuring a smooth pass. To ensure Class 7 MOT testing is done properly and accurately, be sure to book with a reputable company that has experience with larger vehicles.
By following this checklist and choosing a specialist garage, you’ll be road-ready in no time – with safety, legality, and peace of mind all in check.
