Over the past months, the world has been collectively facing an unprecedented public health crisis that is the COVID-19. While restrictions are gradually being eased to give way to different economic activities, stringent health and safety protocols are still in place to help minimise the spread of the infectious disease. If you own a car, you’re probably wondering how accredited garages in Dartford and Welling carry out MOT testing during these tough times.

The Importance of MOT Testing

In the UK, all vehicles that are three years old and above are required to undergo Ministry of Transport or MOT testing — which aims to assess a vehicle's road-worthiness. It is carried out by around 21,000 accredited testing centres and garages in Welling.

When the COVID-19 broke out, the UK government decided to extend the validity of MOT certificates expiring before March 30 for up to six months. Just Recently, they extended this rule to cover those that are expiring before August 1.

7 Things to Remember

If you’re planning to subject your car for an MOT testing in one of the test centres and garages in Dartford or welling, here are seven things you need to remember.

Know when your MOT certificate is due. To minimise the need to unnecessarily go outside your home, you have to be sure that you indeed need to have your MOT certificate renewed. The UK government also has an online portal where you can sign up to get reminders.

Book your MOT testing schedule ahead. Check the online portal of the UK government and check if the type of vehicle you own is qualified for MOT test online booking. Also reach out to a test centre near you for any inquiries about scheduling and protocols.

Never pursue MOT testing if you have symptoms. If you’ve come into contact with a patient or a suspected one during the last 14 days — and you yourself have started to experience systems — you should not go to a test centre. Self-isolate first before proceeding — you will only be sent home if you go to a test hub and you are suspected to have the disease.

Inspect your car beforehand. You also have to inspect your car first before heading into one of the garages in Welling for an MOT test. To reduce your chances of failing the test, check for any warning light, or stickers and debris that may block the driver’s view. Also inspect if you have a registration plate issue or if you’re screen wash is not yet topped up.

Follow safety and health protocols at the testing centre. From observing two-metre social distancing to periodically sanitising your hands to doing cashless payments, you have to follow protocols to minimise your chance of contracting COVID-19.

Have your MOT certificate printed at home. To further minimise physical contact, test centre staff members are advised to send the certificate over cloud and encourage the car owners to print it at their own homes.

Clean and disinfect your vehicle. After a successful MOT test and arriving at your place, you have to clean your vehicle. Using manufacturer-recommended agents and equipment, thoroughly disinfect your car — especially the surfaces that are commonly being touched.