Your Guide to the UK Class 7 MOT Test

What is a Class 7 MOT?

The Class 7 MOT is a mandatory annual test in the UK specifically for light commercial vehicles (LCVs) with a design gross weight (DGW) between 3,000 kg and 3,500 kg. This test ensures that these larger vehicles meet the minimum road safety and environmental standards required to be legally driven on UK roads.

Which Vehicles Need a Class 7 MOT?

Generally, vehicles falling into Class 7 include:

• Larger vans: Such as Ford Transit (certain models), Mercedes Sprinter, Volkswagen Crafter, and similar vehicles used for deliveries, transporting goods, or other business purposes.
• Minibuses: With more than 8 passenger seats and a DGW within the specified range.
• Light trucks: Including some box trucks and flatbed lorries within the weight limit.

Important Note: The specific MOT class for your vehicle depends on its design gross weight (DGW), which is the maximum weight the vehicle is designed to carry when fully loaded. This information can be found in your vehicle's registration document (V5C).

What Does the Class 7 MOT Test Involve?

The Class 7 MOT test is more comprehensive than a standard Class 4 MOT (for cars and smaller vans) due to the increased weight and potential load-carrying capacity of these vehicles. The inspection includes checks on:

• Brakes: Efficiency, condition of brake pads, discs, and hydraulic systems. More stringent brake efficiency tests are conducted for Class 7 vehicles.
• Steering: Condition of the steering mechanism, including power steering (if fitted).
• Suspension: Checks for wear, damage, and leaks in shock absorbers and springs.
• Tyres: Tread depth (minimum legal limit of 1.6mm), overall condition, and ensuring they are suitable for the vehicle's load-bearing capacity.
• Wheels: Condition and security.
• Lights: Headlights, sidelights, brake lights, indicators, hazard warning lights, and number plate lights for correct function and alignment.
• Exhaust System: For leaks and ensuring it meets emissions standards. Diesel vehicles will have their emissions tested, including checks on the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF).
• Emissions: Ensuring the vehicle meets the required environmental standards for its class and age.
• Body and Structure: Checking for corrosion, damage, and structural integrity.
• Doors: Operation and security.
• Seats: Security and condition.
• Seat Belts: Condition and proper functioning.
• Mirrors: Condition and security.
• Windscreen: For cracks or chips that obstruct the driver's vision.
• Wipers and Washers: For effective windscreen clearing.
• Horn: Functionality.
• Battery and Electrical System: General condition and wiring.
• Vehicle Identification Number (VIN): Ensuring it matches the vehicle documents.

Why is a Class 7 MOT Important?

• Safety: Ensures your larger commercial vehicle is safe to operate, reducing the risk of accidents.
• Legal Requirement: A valid MOT certificate is a legal requirement in the UK for vehicles over three years old. Driving without a valid MOT can result in fines and penalties.
• Roadworthiness: Confirms that your vehicle meets the minimum standards for being roadworthy.
• Environmental Compliance: Checks that your vehicle's emissions are within legal limits, contributing to cleaner air.
• Insurance Validity: An invalid MOT can potentially invalidate your vehicle insurance.
• Business Operations: For businesses relying on these vehicles, a valid MOT is crucial for continued operation and avoiding disruptions.

Preparing Your Vehicle for a Class 7 MOT

To increase the chances of your vehicle passing its Class 7 MOT, it's advisable to perform some basic checks beforehand:

• Check all lights: Ensure headlights, indicators, brake lights, and other lights are working.
• Inspect tyres: Check tread depth and look for any damage (cuts, bulges). Ensure tyre pressures are correct.
• Check fluid levels: Ensure oil, brake fluid, and screen wash levels are adequate.
• Test wipers and washers: Make sure they clear the windscreen effectively.
• Check the horn: Ensure it works.
• Look for warning lights: Address any illuminated dashboard warning lights before the test.
• Ensure the vehicle is reasonably clean: Excessive dirt can obstruct the tester's view.

Booking Your Class 7 MOT

Class 7 MOT tests can only be carried out at DVSA-approved testing centres that have the necessary equipment to handle larger vehicles. Not all Perrys sites have the facility in their workshops, however all Perrys sites have a supplier agreement with a local Class 7 MOT centre to ensure we can get them carried out for our customers convenience.

Please ensure you mention your vehicle requires a Class 7 MOT at the point of booking.