In the UK, the Ministry of Transport (MOT) test is a mandatory inspection that ensures vehicles meet road safety and environmental standards. While we have discussed MOT test for class 7 for goods vehicles, there is separate class for PCVs. This is where MOT Class 5 comes in.
If you’re the owner of a vehicle that falls under Class 5 or Class 5A, it’s essential to understand how these classifications differ from regular MOT tests, when your vehicle will need its first MOT, and what the maximum fees for an MOT test are. In this blog, we’ll dive into the details of MOT Class 5 and Class 5A, the age requirements for a first MOT, and the maximum MOT fees for these vehicle categories.
What Is Class 5 MOT?
A Class 5 MOT applies to vehicles that are heavier than typical passenger cars but not as large as commercial lorries. These vehicles generally include minibuses, larger passenger vehicles, and certain types of ambulances and coaches. The Ministry of Transport has classified these vehicles differently due to their size and purpose, requiring a more specialized test compared to smaller passenger vehicles.
Vehicle CLASS 5
These are larger vehicles that typically carry more passengers than standard cars. Examples of vehicles that fall under this category include:
- Class 5 (Minibuses and Small Buses): These include 15-seat minivans, 16-seater minibuses used for private hire, and larger personal vans converted into minibuses.
- Class 5A (Larger Buses and Coaches): Buses with more than 12 seats for public transportation, coaches for tourism, or larger vehicles used for school or corporate transport.
Class 5 vehicles must undergo their first MOT when they turn one year old, just like other vehicles. After that, they must be tested annually to ensure they meet safety and environmental standards.
Class 5 MOT Requirements
The Class 5 MOT is a comprehensive test designed to ensure the vehicle is safe for the road and meets environmental standards. For these vehicles, the MOT checks focus on a range of essential aspects, including:
- Brakes: The vehicle’s braking system is tested under load, including brake discs, pads, and fluid levels.
- Lights: All lights and indicators must be working, including headlights, brake lights, fog lights, and turn signals.
- Tyres and Wheels: Tyres are checked for damage and the correct tread depth, while the wheels are inspected for any signs of damage.
- Suspension and Steering: The suspension and steering mechanisms must be free of excessive play or damage to ensure the vehicle is roadworthy.
- Exhaust and Emissions: The vehicle must meet emission standards, with the exhaust system checked for leaks or damage.
For Class 5 vehicles, these checks are more rigorous due to the larger size and passenger capacity. The MOT ensures that these vehicles are safe for both the driver and the passengers.
MOT Class 5: Cost
The cost of a Class 5 MOT can vary depending on the type of vehicle. Government appointed fees are as follow:
- Class 5 (Vehicle with 13-16 Seats): £59.55
- Class 5 (Vehicles with More Than 16 Seats): £80.65
If you include seat belt installation check too then cost looks like this:
- Class 5A (Vehicle with 13-16 Seats): £80.50
- Class 5A (Vehicles with More Than 16 Seats): £124.50
Keep in mind that the MOT test cost does not cover any repairs required if the vehicle fails the test.
Class 5 MOT Weight Limit
Vehicles classified under Class 5 must meet specific weight limits, which differ based on the vehicle’s design and use. A Class 5L vehicle, for instance, is a subset of Class 5 and has a maximum gross weight limit (DGW) of 5,000 kg. The weight limit is an important factor, as vehicles that exceed this threshold may require testing under different classes. If you’re unsure about whether your vehicle fits within the Class 5 weight limits, consult with an MOT testing center for further clarification.
What is Included in an MOT Class 5 Test?
The MOT test for Class 5 and 5A vehicles is similar to the one for passenger cars, but with additional checks due to the larger size and heavier weight of the vehicle. The main areas covered include:
- Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) check.
- Lighting and signaling devices to ensure all lights, reflectors, and indicators are working.
- Brakes to test the braking system to ensure it functions properly, especially in the context of a larger vehicle that carries many passengers.
- Tyres and wheels to meet the legal standards for size, tread depth, and condition.
- Suspension to check the suspension system for wear, damage, or defects.
- Bodywork to examine the structural integrity of the vehicle, checking for rust, corrosion, or damage that could affect safety.
- Fuel system to test the fuel system for leaks and check the fuel lines for safety.
- Exhaust and emissions to measure the vehicle’s emissions to ensure they comply with environmental standards.
- Driver’s seat and seat belts to check the functionality, security, and wear of the driver’s seat and seat belts.
The inspector will also ensure that there are no dangerous modifications that could make the vehicle unsafe or illegal to operate.
Frequency of Test
The rules for when an MOT is required depend on the age of the vehicle. For Class 5 and Class 5A vehicles, the following applies:
- First MOT: Vehicles in Class 5 or 5A must undergo their first MOT test when they are 1 year old.
- Subsequent MOTs: After the first test, vehicles in Class 5 will need to be tested annually. This is the same as with other MOT classes.
How to Prepare MOT test
To ensure that your Class 5 vehicle passes the MOT with minimal hassle, here are a few tips to prepare:
- Check the tyres: Make sure that all tyres meet the minimum tread depth requirements and are free from damage.
- Ensure all lights and indicators work: Test the headlights, tail lights, brake lights, and turn signals.
- Check the brakes: Ensure that your vehicle’s brakes are responsive and not worn down.
- Inspect the bodywork: Look for visible damage, rust, or other issues that could flag during the test.
- Clean the vehicle: A clean vehicle is easier for the examiner to assess, especially for checks on visibility, lighting, and exhaust systems.
- Check your seatbelts: Ensure that all seatbelts are working and there are no frays or damages.
Conclusion
Class 5 MOT tests are essential for ensuring that larger vehicles, such as minibuses, buses, and coaches, are safe to operate on UK roads. Understanding the Class 5 MOT requirements, the costs, and how to prepare your vehicle can help ensure a smooth testing process and keep your vehicle roadworthy.
Whether you’re a private owner of a minibus or a business operator with a fleet of buses, it’s crucial to stay on top of your MOT tests. By scheduling your MOT on time and ensuring that your vehicle meets all necessary safety standards, you can avoid unnecessary fines and maintain compliance with UK road regulations.
If you’re ever unsure about whether your vehicle qualifies for a Class 5 MOT, it’s always best to consult with an authorized MOT testing center for guidance.