Alphabet shares tips on making sure cars pass their first post-lockdown MOT

Date: 09 June 2020   |   Author: Illya Verpraet

Clive Buhagiar, head of operational services, Alphabet, said: "As we begin the transition of the wider population returning to work, it is vital that Fleet Managers play a key role in keeping employees mobile. Taking the time with drivers before their first journeys is crucial for a frictionless restart to business and will enable employees to carry out their jobs safely and efficiently.

"There will likely be a backlog of vehicles requiring an MOT after the lockdown lifts and garages will experience a significant demand for servicing requirement. Fleet managers should encourage employees to follow these simple steps to help avoid vehicle downtime and any unnecessary delays when returning to work."

The company recommends ten simple checks:

1. Walk around your vehicle to check your lights and indicators are all working as normal.
2. Check your wheels and tyres to ensure they are still legal and have no cuts, bulges, cracks or missing wheel nuts. If the tread wear indicator ridges are level with the surface of the tyre, the remaining tread is 1.6mm and it must be replaced. Many, including Alphabet recommend changing the tyres at 2mm.
3. Check that none of the warning lights stay on after starting the car.
4. Repair any bodywork damage or corrosion before the MOT test.
5. Check any damage to windows and mirrors. Any damage wider than 10mm in the driver's central view, will cause an MOT fail, as will any damage larger than 40mm in the whole of the swept area.
6. Make sure your wipers are able to keep your windscreen clean and there are no tears or holes in the wiper rubber.
7. Ensure the screen wash is topped up before taking your car in for a test.
8. Check the seats and seatbelts to make sure they are still safe and secure.
9. If the vehicle has a tow bar fitted, check that it is secure and not damaged or corroded.
10. Give a short blast of the horn to make sure it works.

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