Here’s what you need to know about changes being introduced to the MOT on May 20th writes Geraldine Herbert The MOT changes this month making it harder for cars to pass, and diesel cars, in particular, will be subject to stricter rules 1) What is changing about the MOT? New rules have been introduced to improve driver safety and improve air quality. These are tougher for diesel cars to pass, and the changes to the MOT will start from 20 May. 2) What is the difference between a ‘Dangerous’, ‘Major’ or ‘Minor’ Fault? Faults will now be ranked as ‘Minor’, ‘Major’ and ‘Dangerous’. If your car has a minor fault it will be noted on the MOT certificate but your car will still be deemed roadworthy. Dangerous and Major faults will fail the MOT and dangerous faults will need to be dealt with before the car can be put back on the road. 3) I drive a diesel car – what do I need to know? Diesel cars are coming under greater scrutiny and now if any smoke is visible from the exhaust when the engine is started, the car will fail immediately. Also, if your car is fitted with a diesel particulate filter (DPF), designed to capture and store exhaust soot to reduce emissions from diesel cars, it will be checked as part of the MOT test. If it has been repaired or removed in the past you must show evidence that there was a legitimate reason for this as otherwise, your car will fail the test. If you are unsure as to whether your car has one you can check its handbook. 4) Is there anything else new about the test? A host of new items are now included in the test such as checking reversing lights, daytime running lights, front fog lights, warning lights, dashboard monitoring and fluid leaks posing an environmental risk 5) When and where do I get an MOT? Every car more than three years old needs an annual MOT test, however, the rules are different in Northern Ireland, where the MOT is due after a car’s fourth birthday. You must use an approved MOT test centre to get your MOT. 6) How should I prepare for the MOT? According to research by WhoCanFixMyCar.com, tyres are one of the most common reasons why...