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The MOT is a legal requirement for all cars aged over three years old. And around 40 percent of cars fail the test at the first attempt.

Data shows that half of all faults could be prevented by carrying out some simple checks before the MOT test. For example, 30 percent of the faults found relate to lights and indicators.

It pays to give your car a once-over before you send it to be tested. Although you won’t be able to fix everything at home, you’ll give it the best chance of passing first time.

The MOT test is a series of checks to ensure that your car is safe to drive and meets the current legal standards. Bear in mind that it doesn’t cover the condition of the engine, clutch and gearbox. It’s also not a replacement for having your car serviced.

Car parts checked in the MOT

This image provided by the Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) is a good place to start. It provides a visual reminder of the things you should consider in the weeks leading up to the MOT test.

Beyond that, you need to pay close attention to the following parts and features of your car:

Interior MOT checks

Seats

The driver’s seat must be adjustable, while all seats must be securely fitted with the seat backs in the upright position.

Seatbelts

Seatbelts must be in place, suitable for the vehicle, working properly and attached securely. The tester will also check the airbag, seatbelt pretensioner and seatbelt load-limiter warning lights.

Warning lights

The tester will check if any key warning lights are permanently illuminated. This includes for power steering, airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS), electronic stability control (ESC), low tyre pressure and the engine ECU warning light. Our guide explains what every car dashboard warning light means.

Wipers and washers

The driver must have a clear view of the road: the condition of the wipers will be checked, and the operation of the wipers. Some cars have been known to fail for having an empty washer bottle…

Brakes

The brakes must pass an efficiency test, while the anti-locking braking system (ABS) and electronic stability control (ESC) must function (where fitted). The ABS, ESC, handbrake and brake fluid lights will also be checked.

Horn

The horn must work and be suitable for the vehicle.

Exterior MOT checks

Registration plates

The number plates must be in good condition, secured to the vehicle and be of the right colour, with characters correctly formed and spaced.

Lights

All lights must be working and in good condition. The headlights will also be checked for aim and the main beam warning light must be working.

Tyres and wheels

The tyres must be of the right size and type, have the minimum tread depth, and be in good condition. The tyre pressure monitoring system must be working on cars registered on or after 1 January 2012.

Windscreen

The windscreen will be checked for condition. The driver must have a clear view of the road.

Mirrors

Check the condition and security of the mirrors.

Doors

Check that the latches secure in the closed position, the front doors open from the inside and outside, and the rear doors open from the outside. Also check the condition of the hinges.

Bonnet

The car’s bonnet must close securely.

Tow bars

The tow bar will be inspected for security, condition and any inappropriate repairs. Make sure the 13-pin electrical socket is working correctly.

Body and vehicle structure

Make sure the body and structure are free from excessive corrosion or damage. Any sharp edges are likely to result in a fail.

Other MOT checks

Fuel system

The fuel system will be inspected to check for leaks and that the pipes and hoses are secure. Also make sure the fuel cap fastens and secures – and don’t forget to supply a key (if necessary).

Exhaust emissions

Emissions-related test failures have increased hugely since an overhaul of the MOT test in 2018. Diesel vehicles are at the greatest risk of failure.

Exhaust system

The exhaust system must be secure and complete, the catalyst must be in place, and there shouldn’t be any serious leaks.

Steering and suspension

These elements will be checked for their condition, the steering oil level, inappropriate repairs or modifications, corrosion to pipes and hoses, and the steering lock.

Vehicle identification number (VIN)

The VIN will be checked on vehicles first used on or after 1 April 1980. Some multi-stage build vehicles are exempt.

Click here for more MOT information from the official GOV.UK website, including how to book a test.

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Cupra unveils bold new look for sporty Leon and Formentor

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May 3, 2024

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Cupra has announced an upgraded version of the Leon hot hatchback, featuring its new corporate look.

The sporty offshoot from Seat has also applied the new styling to its Formentor SUV – said to ‘embrace the brand’s new design language’.

Styling inspiration comes in part from the electric Cupra Born, as the company aims to build on a successful 2023.

Last year, Cupra delivered 230,000 cars in total, with the Formentor accounting for 121,000 of those sales alone. Sales of the SUV were up 23 percent compared to 2022.

Less button bashing

The new Cupra styling for the Leon hatchback and Sportstourer estate will help differentiate them further from the Seat versions. The Formentor gets the same treatment, too.

It certainly looks distinctive, with triangular Matrix LED headlights and a wide lower air intake. An illuminated Cupra logo is found at the rear, plus there are new Century Bronze and Enceladus Grey matt paint colours.

The Cupra model update is more than just skin deep, though. Both the Leon and Formentor SUV have fresh engine options, along with tweaks to their infotainment systems.

Perhaps stung by the constant criticism of its infotainment system, Cupra has given the Leon and Formentor a new 12.9-inch display screen. There are no buttons, as before, but the slider controls are now backlit.

Eco-conscious performance

New materials have been used inside, aiming to give the Cupra brand improved environmental credentials. The sports seats now come with a choice of eco-conscious leather or microfibre upholstery, the latter made from 73 percent recycled fibres

Cupra has enhanced the plug-in hybrid powertrain option, with the eHybrid version now serving up 272hp. Compatible with 50kW fast-charging, the PHEV Leon and Formentor models can now cover up to 62 miles on battery power alone.

A range-topping version of the Formentor and Leon Sportstourer offers a new 333hp 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine. It also features a torque splitter – creating the potential for drifting action – and hardcore Akebono brakes for good measure.

Automotive emotion

“The Cupra Formentor and Leon have both been a driving force in the brand’s success as it expands its footprint around the world. It’s an approach that has been incredibly successful with close to 600,000 cars delivered since the brand’s launch in 2018,” said Wayne Griffiths, CEO of Cupra.

“The new Cupra Formentor and Leon are pure design obsession,” Griffiths added. “Two models built to provoke strong emotions and that strengthen the extraordinary bond with our tribe. Two models that represent what that small group of believers envisaged Cupra could be just a few years ago.”

Cupra is yet to confirm UK prices or final specifications for the updated Leon and Formentor. Expect more details to be announced before the first cars arrive this summer.

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Kia offers free sessions to educate drivers about EVs

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May 2, 2024

Kia is officially the best car brand, say UK dealers

Kia has launched free one-to-one advice sessions in a bid to educate motorists about electric cars.

The Korean manufacturer says the personalised workshops, available to book across its UK dealer network, will help drivers to understand the transition from fossil-fuelled vehicles to EVs. Among other topics, they will cover the differences in driving an electric car, understanding range and charging times.

Kia has launched an online myth-busting guide to electric vehicles, which covers the different powertrains available, the benefits of running an EV, battery life and using the public charging network.

Why Kia wants to educate us about EVs

You could be forgiven for thinking there is something of an ulterior motive behind Kia’s efforts here. And you’d probably be right.

By 2027, the company aims to have nine different electric vehicles on sale in the UK as part of a wider plan to launch 15 globally in total over six years. However, Sanka De Silva, marketing director at Kia UK, said there aren’t any sales pitches involved in the training.

“Education is vital for customers to successfully transition to electric and we want to give something back to communities and help people understand EVs,” said De Silva. “There is no sales pitch here, it is simply our way of starting a conversation, and sharing information and knowledge.”

At the moment, Kia’s range of electric cars consists of the EV9 – which won the World Car of the Year trophy last month – EV6, Niro and Soul.

‘Expert advice’ on going electric

“As with any car and powertrain, it is crucial to understand them to get the most from them,” added De Silva. “With some people nervous about EVs, we felt that the right thing to do would be to offer our expert advice so they can find out how easily an EV can fit in people’s lifestyles.

“From a complete beginner to the EV world to someone looking to buy their first EV, if you have questions about going electric, the Discover EV events offer the perfect opportunity to get answers.”

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EV network Plugsurfing launches Apple CarPlay charging app

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May 2, 2024

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Plugsurfing has updated its iPhone app to offer Apple CarPlay integration – meaning drivers can now edit planned routes and transfer them to a navigation app without needing to touch their smartphone.

Additionally, motorists can view a map of nearby public EV charging points, including real-time availability, pricing details, power output and supported plug types as they travel. It’s also possible to filter by type of charging point.

According to Plugsurfing, three-quarters of its users access the app via an iPhone. The company says CarPlay capability will be a ‘welcome addition to a huge number of EV drivers’.

Improving EV safety

There is a potential safety benefit, too. Using a smartphone while driving is an obvious hazard – not to mention illegal.

With the app being ported onto a car’s infotainment screen, drivers can use voice commands or buttons on the steering wheel to control it.

There are limitations, though: the CarPlay version doesn’t allow motorists to enter a new destination and create a new route, nor can drivers launch a charging session.

Plugsurfing said it deliberately disabled these options from the CarPlay system to make the app as easy as possible to use while driving – and to ‘keep it light and not overload it with features’.

Plugsurfing deal with Polestar

In March, Swedish brand Polestar announced a new service together with Plugsurfing, called Polestar Charge. It offers access to 650,000 EV charging points across Europe; the largest network on the continent according to both companies.

Polestar says the service reduces the need to have subscriptions, apps or charging tags. Its cars also use an EV optimisation tool within Google Maps, helping drivers plan optimal charging stops along their route.

“With access to the largest networks in Europe and smart integration in Google Maps, we have made it easy for Polestar drivers to enjoy life with an electric car rather than worrying about where they will find their next charge,” said Thomas Ingenlath, CEO of Polestar.

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One-off amphibious TVR Scamander to headline London Concours 2024

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May 1, 2024

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A one-off amphibious TVR that has been mothballed since 2012 is to headline this year’s London Concours in June.

The Scamander was the brainchild of former TVR boss Peter Wheeler. It features three seats nestled beneath a sliding canopy and an elongated body inspired by a boat hull and an aircraft fuselage.

Powered by a 275hp Ford V6 engine, the functioning prototype is the only example in existence and has been recommissioned after laying dormant for 12 years.

Unique cars on the concours lawn

The theme of this year’s London Concours – which runs from 4-6 June at The Honourable Artillery Company, close to Liverpool Street station – is ‘wildcards’. These are vehicles that wouldn’t fit in traditional categories at concours events.

Another car being shown alongside the waterborne TVR is a 1958 Mercedes-Benz 220S ‘Ponton’ Cabriolet. It introduced a different design direction for the German marque, with its pontoon-like sides heralding the end of the separate wings seen previously.

The ‘Ponton’ also marked the start of unitary body construction at Mercedes-Benz, setting a new standard for structural integrity and design innovation.

One more must-see at London Concours is another car that doubles up as a boat: the 1976 Lotus Esprit immortalised by its appearance in the James Bond film, ‘The Spy Who Loved Me’.

Tickets for the event, which has been running since 2012, are on sale now and priced from £35.

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Bentley Bentayga Apex Edition stakes claim as the ultimate SUV

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May 1, 2024

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A new series of Bentley Bentayga special editions has been announced, with a focus on performance and personalisation.

The Apex Edition is the latest addition to the Bentayga range. The luxury SUV features sportier styling, plus plenty of carbon fibre components.

Bentley’s bespoke Mulliner department has created six themes for the Bentayga Apex Edition, ranging from subtle to extravagant. Alternatively, customers can opt for a completely bespoke car, tailored to their individual taste (or lack of, potentially).

There is also a special Le Mans-inspired colour scheme available, with sales limited solely to those who already own a Bentley Continental GT or GTC Le Mans Edition.

Carbon captured

Being based on the Bentayga S V8 means the Apex Edition can muster a substantial 542hp and 568lb ft of torque. The headline numbers are 0-62mph in 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 180mph.

Bentley has added a set of Mulliner 22-inch alloy wheels, crafted from lightweight carbon fibre, which reduce unsprung mass by a considerable 24kg. They are also said to improve steering response and even reduce tyre wear.

Carbon ceramic brakes are also fitted as standard, shaving another 20kg from the Bentayga’s kerb weight.

More carbon is used for the front splitter, rear spoiler, side sills and door mirror caps, along with on the dashboard. Completing the package, carbon Apex Edition badges can be found on the Bentayga’s rear pillars.

Go as bold as you like

Of the six Mulliner-created themes, the one pictured here is the first choice on Bentley’s list.

Providing an example of what is possible, it combines bold Candy Red exterior paintwork with an Anthracite body stripe. The latter is highlighted by Arctic White pinstripes.

On the inside, Arctic White and Hotspur leather upholstery are used throughout the cabin. More Arctic White features as the contrast stitching, seat piping and around the carbon fibre dashboard trim.

Owners of the Le Mans Edition Continental models can have their Apex Edition finished in Verdant Green, with a contrasting Moonbeam racing stripe.

The sky is the limit

Production of the Bentayga Apex Edition is limited to just 20 examples worldwide. Customers will be encouraged to work with the bespoke Mulliner team, helping craft their perfect specification for the luxury SUV.

Given the level of customisation on offer, Bentley has not released prices for the Apex Edition. As a guide, however, the standard V8-powered Bentayga S starts from just over £200,000.

We suspect those considering a unique Bentayga will be limited only by their imagination, rather than by their bank balance.

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New Aston Martin ‘Vanquish’ due soon, with 835hp twin-turbo V12

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May 1, 2024

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A new twin-turbocharged V12 engine will power the replacement for the Aston Martin DBS, due to be revealed soon.

With a mighty output of 835hp (824bhp), bolstered by 738lb ft (1,000Nm) of torque, the new V12 is said to be a ‘defiant defender of emotional engagement’.

Other limited-edition Aston Martin models will also use the V12, with production volumes set to be strictly capped each year. And there are strong hints that the storied Vanquish name will reappear for the first time since 2018.

Dawn of a new era

Aston Martin says developing the new V12 engine has involved fastidious engineering work. Highlights include redesigned cylinder heads, a strengthened block and a reprofiled camshaft. New turbochargers help deliver more power and improved throttle response.

Aston Martin chief technical officer Roberto Fedeli said: “The V12 engine has long been a symbol of power and prestige, but it is also a statement of engineering passion and technical prowess.

“With 835hp and 1,000Nm of torque, this unparalleled engine represents nothing less than the dawn of a dazzling new V12 era for Aston Martin.”

‘All will be Vanquished’

Aston Martin hasn’t officially confirmed the replacement for the DBS will be badged ‘Vanquish’. However, it has dropped some less-than-subtle hints. The press release concludes with the words ‘All will be Vanquished’ – a clear nod to the name of the new model.

Two generations of the Vanquish have previously been built, both powered by naturally aspirated V12 engines. A mid-engined Vanquish concept car was also teased at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show.

Aston Martin plans to reveal the ‘Vanquish’ to the world later in 2024. Until then, simply luxuriate in the sound of its V12 engine by watching the video below.

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Tesla Cybertruck UK tour: when and where you can see it

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April 30, 2024

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Whatever you think about the Cybertruck, this otherworldly EV is certain to turn heads. Tesla will showcase the fully electric pick-up in the UK and Ireland for the first time next month – offering the public an opportunity to ‘meet the vehicle and learn more about its specs and engineering’.

During the whistle-stop tour – part of a wider European journey that will see the vehicle exhibited in 100 locations across 20 countries – motorists will also be able to test-drive the Tesla Model Y and Model 3.

Tesla will also sell Cybertruck merchandise while on tour, including everything from a £1,450 Cyberquad for kids (yes, really) to branded socks (£15) and a Cybertruck blanket (£140).

Where can I see the Cybertruck on its travels?

Here are the locations and dates to see the Tesla Cybertruck on its UK and Ireland tour:

Tesla Centre, Park Royal, West London: 4-5 May
Tesla Centre, Westfield shopping centre, West London: 6-10 May
Kings Cross, London: 11 May
Tesla Centre Solihull: 13-17 May
Birmingham Bullring: 18-19 May
Spinningfields Square, Manchester: 20-21 May
Tesla Central Manchester: 22-31 May
Edinburgh City Centre: 1 June
Tesla Centre Glasgow: 2-6 June
Tesla Centre Belfast: 7-9 June
Tesla Centre Dublin: 14 June
Dundrum shopping centre, Dublin: 15 June
Tesla Centre Cork: 18-23 June

Cybertruck deliveries in the USA started in December 2023, but Tesla says ‘timescales for deliveries outside of North America are yet to be announced’. It cites a preference to focus on its home territory: ‘the main volume market for pick-up trucks’.

Will the Cybertruck be legal in Europe?

Perhaps another reason Tesla has focused on the US market is because of doubts over whether the Cybertruck will be allowed on European roads.

According to a German TUV safety certification expert, the vehicle will require “strong modifications to the basic structure” before it can be sold on this side of the Atlantic.

Because the Cybertruck is classed as a light duty truck in the USA, it gets exemption from many safety regulations, including those for pedestrian impact protection. That isn’t the case in Europe, however.

Stefan Teller of SGS-TUV Saar GmbH outlined his concerns about the Cybertruck. “The front of the vehicle must not be stiff,” he explained. “The bumper and bonnet must also be able to absorb energy to protect pedestrians.”

Teller added that, to satisfy European type approval, the Cybertruck needs to comply with around 50-60 different regulations.

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