Just like any other car, your wheelchair accessible vehicle (WAV) needs to pass the MOT test to ensure it meets road safety requirements and environmental standards. If your WAV is 3 years or older, it must get and pass the MOT test annually.
In our decades in this industry, we’ve discovered that there is sometimes uncertainty around MOT tests for mobility vehicles. In this post, we’ll answer the most asked questions, leaving you feeling a lot more confident in your wheelchair accessible vehicle’s MOT process.
What is included in the MOT test for WAVs?
MOT tests for wheelchair accessible vehicles include all the inspections covered in standard MOTs, with some extra checks, adaptations and allowances. The standard inspections your vehicle will go through include:
- Headlights, indicators, hazard lights, brake lights, fog lamps, reversing lights, and reflectors
- Steering wheel and column, front and rear suspension components, and power steering system
- Footbrake, handbrake, brake balance and efficiency, and anti-lock braking system warning lights
- Tyre tread depth and condition, wheel security and condition, and correct load and speed rating
- Seat belts and restraints
- Structure, bodywork, doors, tailgates, bonnet, and seats
- Windscreen condition, mirrors, wipers, and washers
- Exhaust system, fuel system, and emissions (for petrol and diesel vehicles)
- Electrical systems, horn, and speedometer
- Load security
How is the MOT for a WAV different?
As well as standard MOT checks, there are some differences and additions when it comes to WAVs to ensure specialised equipment and adapted systems are properly inspected.
Wheelchair restraint systems
Wheelchair Tiedowns and Occupant Restraint Systems (WTORS), such as the anchorages that secure wheelchairs and disabled-persons belts, will be checked for security and to ensure they’re in a safe working condition. This falls under section 7.1 of the government’s MOT inspection manual and is mandatory.
Acceptance of accessibility modifications
Modifications must be made to vehicles to allow for easier, dignified, and more comfortable use for those with mobility limitations or wheelchair users. As long as these modifications don’t impair the vehicle’s roadworthiness, they will be accepted and passed during the MOT. These changes could include a fixed, non-adjustable driver’s seat and door handle alternatives.
Disabled driver controls
If any original vehicle controls have been replaced with specialised modifications, such as a handlebar system replacing a steering wheel, then these will be inspected during the MOT. However, additions that are simply add-ons to original equipment, like levers and turning knobs fixed to the steering wheel, will not be tested.
How often does a WAV require an MOT test?
Your mobility vehicle requires an MOT test (and pass) annually once it’s three years old or older. This is the same as any other road vehicle, so you won’t need to remember different deadlines if you switch from a standard car to a WAV.
What happens if a WAV fails its MOT?
Just like with a standard road vehicle, if your WAV fails its MOT test, then you will need to fix the problems that caused it to fail. Problems that result in a fail will either be classed as ‘major’ or ‘dangerous’. You can drive your WAV with a ‘major’ problem (if your current MOT is still valid), from the appointment to a pre-arranged repair and to its MOT retest. It is illegal to drive with a ‘dangerous’ problem, even if that journey is from the test centre to a repair centre. You can, however, get it towed to a different repair centre if you wish.
If your WAV passes, you may also be provided with a list of ‘advisory’ or ‘minor problems’, which we highly recommend getting fixed as soon as you’re able, and certainly before your next MOT.
Tips on passing the MOT
There are many quick and easy steps you can take to help get your vehicle into a better position to pass its MOT. You can do these yourself, or ask family or friends to help.
- Ensure your vehicle is clean and clear of clutter, as some examiners may refuse to carry out the MOT if the car is too dirty. This includes the number plate, which needs to be readable to pass.
- Top up all fluid levels, including brake fluid, screenwash, and oil.
- Check your windscreen wipers, mirrors, horn, and lights. If these aren’t in good condition, they’re fairly quick fixes you can get done before the test date.
- Check tyre pressure, and check tyre tread using the 20p test. Insert a 20p coin into the tyre’s tread groove – if you can’t see the coin’s outer band, your tread is fine, but if you can, it’s likely that the tread is too shallow and the tyre must be changed.
Get your mobility vehicle MOT test at Ransome Mobility
Here at Ransome, we have a team of master technicians ready to conduct your WAV’s MOT test, as well as servicing and repairs. Whether you bought your wheelchair accessible vehicle from us or not, we’re happy to help. You can book your MOT with us at our base in Ipswich, where our team will thoroughly inspect and check your vehicle to ensure it’s safe. We also offer a maintenance service, which includes a free adaptation systems check to make sure everything is working as it should. Finally, we can repair any problems your WAV might be facing, from strange sounds to uncomfortable rumblings.
If you’re looking for more information, advice, or to book in to see us, don’t hesitate to give us a call on 01473 727 263.