Does an electric car need an MOT?

As most drivers will be aware, an MOT is an annual test that determines whether or not a car is safe to drive. 

First introduced in 1960 as a voluntary test for cars older than 10 years, they were made compulsory a year later and in 1967 were required for all cars older than three years.  While many drivers will be used to taking their vehicle for its annual test, what about electric cars?

In this article, The Windscreen Company team will take a closer look at electric cars and whether they require an MOT.

Do electric cars need an MOT?

Yes, electric cars do require yearly MOTs.

While electric cars are exempt from road tax (until April 2025), congestion charges (until December 2025) and ULEZ charges in London, they are not exempt from MOTs. Like fuel vehicles, all electric cars over three years old must have an annual MOT to check that they are roadworthy and safe to drive.

What are the differences between an electric car MOT and a non-electric car MOT?

MOTs for electric cars and fuel cars follow much the same format, checking all the vehicle’s parts and safety features are functioning correctly. However, there are a few key differences.

For example, as electric cars do not have exhausts, there will be no emissions test to run. For fuel cars, this test is designed to check how much gas is produced by the exhaust and ensure it is at safe levels. But as electric cars are zero emission vehicles, this test is not necessary.  

Instead, an electric car MOT will include testing the vehicle’s battery to ensure it is in good condition and not degrading. 

What’s included in an electric car MOT?

As previously mentioned, an electric car MOT will include many of the same general checks as MOTs for petrol and diesel cars.

This includes checking:

• Brakes
• Lights
• Tyres and wheels
• Steering
• Seatbelts 
• Windscreens 
• Wipers
• Mirrors 
• Bodywork
• Suspension
• The electric battery 

How much does an electric car MOT cost?

Electric car MOTs cost the same as fuel vehicle MOTs and the Government has capped the price at £54.85. This means that no garages or MOT test centres in the UK are allowed to charge more than this for an MOT. However, by shopping around online, you may be able to find test centres that do it cheaper than this maximum amount.

How often do I need an electric car MOT?

Just like with fuel vehicles, if your electric car is more than three years old, you will need to organise an MOT every year. Driving a car without a valid MOT certificate can have serious consequences, including police cautions, large fines and points on your licence. 

You can arrange an MOT up to a month before your certificate is due to expire and it’s important you organise a test in a timely fashion to ensure your car remains legal to drive.  

Before an MOT, getting any maintenance issues sorted is important to ensure your vehicle passes the test. At The Windscreen Company, we can help vehicles of all makes and models with windscreen repairs and replacements, ensuring all of your vehicle’s glass is in the best condition ahead of an MOT. From electric vehicles to hybrids, as well as traditional petrol and diesel vehicles, our fully qualified team of technicians is here to help. Operating across the West Midlands and South East – contact us today to find out more.

The Windscreen Company

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The Windscreen Company, has over 20 years of experience in windscreen repair and replacement. Since 1998, they have been at the forefront of industry innovation, leveraging the latest technology to ensure customer safety and satisfaction.

The Windscreen Company's, help-and-advice pages offer valuable tips and guidance on maintaining vehicle safety through quality windscreen care, while also featuring updated industry realted content.

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