As electric vehicles continue to grow in popularity in the UK, many new EV owners wonder if they need to get an MOT test every year like petrol and diesel cars. Here we will look at the MOT requirements for electric cars and other key questions new EV drivers may have.
Do you need an MOT for an electric car?
Yes, electric cars do require an annual MOT test once they reach 3 years old, just like petrol and diesel cars. The MOT test applies to all cars, vans and motorcycles over 3 years old used on public roads, regardless of their fuel type.
So if you have a new electric vehicle that is less than 3 years old, it is exempt from needing an MOT. But as soon as your EV reaches its 3rd anniversary of registration, it will require an annual MOT test to check it meets road safety and environmental standards.
Are the MOT rules different for electric cars?
The MOT test is broadly the same for electric and conventional fuel vehicles. Both types undergo visual checks and computer diagnostics of areas like:
- Lights
- Steering
- Suspension
- Brakes
- Tyres
- Seatbelts
However, there are some additional items that are checked on electric vehicles, related to the electric powertrain and battery system. These include:
- Traction motor and transmission mounts
- Cables and connectors
- Battery security
- Electric vehicle warning lights
The MOT tester will also verify that any high voltage components are clearly marked with warning signs, and the drive batteries are securely mounted. So while the MOT is largely the same, some extra electric-specific items are checked over.
When should I book the MOT test?
To make sure your electric car’s MOT certificate is always up to date, it’s advisable to book the test about 4-8 weeks before your current certificate expires.
You can check the expiry date printed on your existing MOT certificate. Given MOT test wait times are usually 2-4 weeks at most garages, booking it 1-2 months in advance provides leeway in case any repairs are needed before passing the test.
Where can I get an MOT for my electric car?
Any garage that offers MOT testing services for conventional cars can also perform MOTs on electric vehicles. More than 50,000 garages across the UK are authorised to carry out MOTs.
Many major chains like Halfords, Kwik Fit and National Tyres offer MOT testing. You can also visit your car manufacturer’s dealership, or local independent garages that provide MOTs.
When booking your electric car’s MOT, it’s worth checking the garage has qualified technicians with EV training to perform testing. But most authorised MOT centres today recognise how to test hybrid and electric cars alongside petrol and diesels.
How much is an electric car MOT?
The maximum fee garages can charge for an MOT is set by the government. Here are the current maximum MOT prices depending on vehicle type:
| Vehicle | Maximum MOT Cost |
|---|---|
| Cars and light vehicles | £54.85 |
| Motorbikes | £29.65 |
Many garages charge less than the maximum rate. MOT prices can range from £40-55 for cars, and £25-30 for motorbikes. Additional fees may apply for retests if repairs are required.
Electric vehicles do not cost anymore for an MOT than equivalent petrol or diesel cars. So you can expect to pay similar MOT prices for your EV as you would for a conventional fuel vehicle.
Do electric cars pass the MOT more easily?
Electric vehicles often have an advantage when it comes to passing the MOT compared to older petrol and diesel cars.
EVs have fewer mechanical and moving parts under the hood, reducing the need for oil changes, spark plug replacements and other repairs over time.
With regenerative braking, brake pad wear is also minimised on electric cars. And battery issues are rare on modern EVs.
So with fewer parts to inspect and replace, an annual MOT on an electric vehicle typically has higher first-time pass rates versus an older traditional combustion engine vehicle.
What if my electric car fails its MOT?
If your electric car fails its MOT, don’t panic. The MOT centre will provide you with a failure document listing any faults that need to be fixed. These must then be repaired before returning for a partial or full MOT retest.
Typical MOT failures on electric cars include:
- Faulty lights
- Brake pad wear
- Tyre damage
- Low screenwash
- Battery faults
Most electric MOT failures only require minor fixes, although more significant repairs may be needed in some cases. Ensure any critical safety-related faults are fixed right away.
After completing repairs, rebooking a retest will allow the MOT centre to check the car now meets the pass requirements. Your EV’s MOT certificate remains valid during this retest period.
How can I prepare my electric car for its MOT?
Carrying out your own basic checks and visual inspections can help ensure your electric vehicle sails through its MOT with no nasty surprises.
Actions to take in advance include:
- Check all lights work – headlights, brake lights, indicators etc.
- Look for damage or low tread on tyres
- Check windscreen wipers and washer fluid operation
- Assess brake pad thickness
- Check seatbelts for wear and locks
- Look for fluids leaks underneath
- Cleannumber plates so they are clearly visible
Giving your EV a check over in the weeks before can allow time to replace any faulty bulbs, worn components or make repairs prior to its MOT appointment.
What documents do I need for the MOT test?
When arriving at the MOT testing centre, make sure you have the following documents:
- MOT reminder letter
- Existing MOT certificate
- Vehicle registration document (V5C)
- Proof of identity (driving license)
Having these will allow the garage to access your EV’s records and registration details to perform the test. You may also need an electric charging cable or adaptor.
Conclusion
While electric cars are powered differently to petrol and diesel vehicles, they still require an annual MOT once they are over 3 years old to legally drive on UK roads.
The MOT test provides an important independent safety and maintenance check. Preparing properly by checking lights, tyres, brakes and more can help your EV sail through its test.
Overall, EVs tend to have higher MOT pass rates versus older traditional fuel cars. But any MOT failures can usually be fixed with minor repairs and maintenance.
So remember to book your electric car’s MOT around 4-8 weeks before your current certificate expires. This will ensure continuous MOT coverage plus time for any fixes if needed. Contact your local approved MOT garage to arrange an appointment.