Prepping Your Van For An MOT

Vanaways
Vanaways
5th Dec 2022
Prepping Your Van For An MOT

MOT’s are an annual requirement if you own a road-vehicle. Acting as an annual inspection to diagnose any underlying issues with your choice of transport, an MOT should highlight any potential problems with your car, van or other automotive. There are plenty of steps you can take to prepare your vehicle for a routine check, which will be highlighted in the below blog. Continue reading and let Van Sales UK share some top tips on MOT preparation.

What An MOT Involves

An MOT will generally be carried out to learn more about your motor – from information about harmful emissions, to general unnoticed issues which require attention. Driving without a valid Ministry Of Transport inspection could incur hefty fines for an unsuspecting driver – so it’s within your best interests to stay updated. Of the areas regularly checked in an MOT, criteria will include:

  • Condition, security, legibility and format of registration plates.
  • The steering and suspension of a vehicle.
  • Condition and safety of seatbelts and seats – are they functioning correctly?
  • Inspection of exhaust and emissions, how compliant they are with national guidelines.
  • Any damage sustained to bodywork, doors and mirrors. For example, is there visible denting?
  • Overall condition of wheels, tyres and brakes.

Take It Section-By-Section

A thorough visual inspection can reveal a lot, and focusing specifically section-by-section should avoid anything being missed. Divide your van up into distinctive areas and make your way through, ensuring no stone is left unturned. There may be a quick and easy fix to many of the issues you encounter, so it’s always best to check before you consult a professional at your local garage.

Be Thorough!

Thorough inspection of the interior and exterior of your vehicle will likely reveal a lot, and although there are of course issues and underlying problems which will go undetected to the naked eye, a thorough and detailed insight will provide the very best chance of identifying discrepancies.

If you do fail your MOT, you will be given a refusal of MOT certificate. This means that your vehicle must then be repaired and retested, to check it is up to the correct standards for use on the roads. You cannot drive away with a vehicle that has failed an MOT test unless the problems are fixed, or you are driving it to have those faults repaired at another repair centre.

Time For A Change?

Could it be time for a change for your commercial van or fleet? If an issue has been identified and is set to cost an arm and a leg, you may benefit from investing in a new vehicle altogether. Used vans are always listed within our online directory at reduced prices – so browse today and acquire a cheap van for sale.

At Van Sales UK, we’re proud to offer varied van deals for our nationwide customers. Whether based in Newcastle or Newport, we’re the reliable organisation to choose. Looking to purchase or van finance? Trust us for competitive prices and fantastic customer service around-the-clock – just contact your trusted van suppliers with any enquiries.

Vanaways Reviews

   
Lynne S

Lynne S

04 March 2026

"First time using Vansaway! I was in a bit of a panic as my van broke down and I was unable to fix it. My van is my livihood, so I looked into leasing and contract. I wish I done it sooner. I spoke to Jonathan as my first point of contact. I couldn't have got any luckier having him as my support. He was absolutely fantastic, he went above and beyond to help me. He was easy to contact and would always reply when I had any concerns or questions. His knowledge on all vehicles was impeccable, which made things easier. He listened to what I wanted and needed and explained everything thoroughly help me making the right choice in plan and kept in touch throughout the entire process! He knew I was in desperate need of a van and he did not disappoint and kept his word and I was able to get my new van delivered as soon as possible. Enjoying the drive. Its great about the perks involved in having a contract hire as well! Thank you so much for everything! Highly recommend, vans are just not how they use to be, so its great to have a brand new van along with the support of any engine faults things like that. A huge stress off my shoulders being sole trader."

Fiona

Fiona

30 May 2026

"First time leasing with Vanaways, but have leased before. Initial contact was with Justin, who found the van I need very quickly at a competitive price. No hard sell, and seamless. Yasmine completed the admin and arranged delivery. Great service from both. Follow up calls to see if I was satisfied with van. Professional and efficient, would highly recommend."

Mike Collins

Mike Collins

18 February 2026

"Excellent service from start to finish. Rob was very helpful throughout the purchase of our Ford Transit tipper. Can’t recommend them enough. Mike Collins."

John Owens

John Owens

14 April 2026

"Fantastic service from start to finish. This is the second vehicle we have had from Liam.Liam took the time to listen to the vehicle that I wanted, sourced exactly what I wanted. Within 2 weeks the right vehicle was sourced and delivered Joe was amazing kept me up to date with the progress, the van was delivered this morning early. highly recommend these guys for vehicles Thank you both"

phoebe palmer

phoebe palmer

11 March 2026

"I recently bought a new car from this company and had a fantastic experience from start to finish. Tyler and Steve C were both brilliant to deal with – friendly, professional and incredibly helpful throughout the whole process. They took the time to answer all my questions and made everything straightforward and stress-free. The customer service was excellent and I never felt pressured at any point. Both Tyler and Steve C really went above and beyond to make sure everything was sorted and that I was happy with the car. I couldn’t recommend them enough and would definitely buy from them again in the future. Thanks again for such a great experience!"

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