Electric Car MOT Test: What's Checked in 2025?

Do electric cars need an MOT? Yes. Despite having no exhaust emissions, electric vehicles (EVs) must undergo annual MOT testing after three years, just like petrol and diesel cars. From November 2025, new testing requirements specifically for electric and hybrid vehicles come into force, covering high-voltage batteries, charging systems, and electrical components.

This comprehensive guide explains everything about electric car MOT testing: when EVs need testing, what's checked (and what's not), the major November 2025 rule changes, common EV-specific failures, costs, and how to prepare your electric vehicle for MOT.

Do Electric Cars Need an MOT?

Yes. All electric vehicles require MOT testing under the same schedule as conventional cars:

MOT Frequency for Electric Cars

First MOT: 3 years after date of first registration Subsequent tests: Annually

Example:

• Tesla Model 3 first registered: 15 March 2022
• First MOT due: 14 March 2025
• Second MOT due: 14 March 2026
• Continues annually thereafter

No exemptions: Even though EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, they still need MOT to verify:

• Safety systems function correctly
• Brakes, tyres, lights work properly
• Steering and suspension are safe
• Electrical systems are secure
• No dangerous defects present

When is my MOT due? →

Why EVs Need MOT Testing

Safety concerns:

• High-voltage systems (400-800 volts)
• Heavy battery packs affect suspension
• Regenerative braking systems
• Complex electrical components
• Potential fire risks from damaged batteries

Wear and tear:

• Tyres wear faster (heavier vehicle weight)
• Suspension stressed by battery mass
• Brake systems still deteriorate (though used less)
• Steering components still wear

Legal requirement:

• Road Traffic Act 1988 applies to all vehicles
• No emission testing doesn't mean no MOT
• Same penalties for driving without MOT (£1,000 fine)

What's NOT Tested on Electric Cars

Electric vehicles are exempt from several checks that apply to combustion engine cars:

No Emissions Testing

• No exhaust system check
• No emissions gas analysis
• No smoke opacity test
• No catalytic converter inspection
• No DPF checks

Why: Zero tailpipe emissions = no exhaust to test

Time saving: Emissions testing takes 5-10 minutes on conventional cars. EVs skip this entirely, potentially shortening test duration.

No Engine-Related Checks

• No engine oil level check
• No coolant check (traditional type)
• No exhaust manifold inspection
• No fuel system checks
• No cambelt inspection

However: Electric motors and cooling systems are checked for safety and leaks.

No Traditional Drivetrain Checks

• No clutch operation test
• No gearbox checks (most EVs are single-speed)
• No traditional transmission inspection

But: Drive shafts and CV joints still inspected as these components exist on EVs.

What IS Tested on Electric Cars (Standard Checks)

Despite no emissions testing, EVs undergo comprehensive safety inspection covering:

Lighting and Electrical Systems

• Headlights (dipped and main beam)
• Brake lights (including high-level brake light)
• Indicators and hazard lights
• Side lights
• Fog lights (if fitted)
• Reversing lights
• Number plate lights
• Dashboard warning lights

EV-specific: Battery management system warnings must extinguish after startup.

Braking System

• Brake efficiency (must meet 50%+ of vehicle weight)
• Brake balance (left/right sides)
• Brake pad thickness
• Brake disc condition
• Brake fluid level (EVs still use hydraulic brakes)
• Handbrake operation and efficiency
• ABS function (warning light must extinguish)

Important: Despite regenerative braking, traditional brakes still tested. Some EVs develop brake corrosion due to infrequent use.

Tyres and Wheels

• Tread depth (minimum 1.6mm across central three-quarters)
• Tyre condition (cuts, bulges, perishing)
• Matching tyres on same axle
• Wheel condition
• Wheel bearings (no excessive play)

EV consideration: Heavier vehicle weight causes faster tyre wear. Budget for replacements more frequently.

Steering and Suspension

• Steering wheel security and condition
• Power steering operation (most EVs are electric power steering)
• Steering rack condition
• Track rod ends
• Suspension shock absorbers
• Coil springs (no breaks or cracks)
• Suspension bushes
• Ball joints
• Anti-roll bar links

EV impact: Heavier battery weight places more stress on suspension components.

Body Structure and Corrosion

• Sills (bottom of doors)
• Chassis and subframe
• Jacking points
• Suspension mounting areas
• Floor pan
• Corrosion assessment
• Sharp edges check

EV-specific: Battery mounting points and under-body protection checked.

Seat Belts and Interior

• All seat belt operation
• Seat belt webbing condition
• Seat security
• Seat condition
• Mirrors (driver's side + one other minimum)
• Horn operation
• Windscreen condition (no cracks in driver's view)
• Wiper operation
• Washer operation

Registration and Identification

• Registration plates (clean, legible, correct format)
• VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) readable
• Number of seats accurate

November 2025: New EV-Specific MOT Requirements

From November 2025, MOT testing introduces dedicated checks for electric and hybrid vehicles covering:

High-Voltage Battery Checks

Visual Inspection:

• Battery casing integrity
• No visible damage, dents, or deformation
• Seals intact (no moisture ingress)
• Mounting secure
• Under-body protection present

Warning Indicators:

• Battery health warning lights
• High-voltage system warnings
• Cooling system alerts
• Any permanent warnings = fail

Safety Labelling:

• High-voltage warning labels present
• Correct placement and visibility
• Labels not faded or missing

What testers look for:

• Signs of impact damage
• Corrosion around battery pack
• Leaking battery coolant
• Loose or damaged mounting bolts

Failure criteria:

• Damaged battery casing
• Missing high-voltage warnings
• Coolant leaks
• Insecure battery mounting
• Warning lights illuminated

Electrical Insulation Testing

High-Voltage Cable Inspection:

• Orange cables intact (standard HV colour)
• No exposed wiring
• Cable routing secure
• Protection covers present
• No chafing or wear

Insulation Integrity:

• No breaks in cable sheathing
• Connectors secure and sealed
• No signs of arcing or burning
• Earth bonding present

Failure points:

• Exposed high-voltage cables
• Damaged insulation
• Missing cable protection
• Burnt or melted connectors

Charging Port Inspection

Physical Condition:

• Charging port door operates correctly
• Port not damaged or corroded
• Locking mechanism functions
• Weather seal intact
• Pins/contacts not worn or burnt

Safety Features:

• Locking mechanism works
• Port cover closes properly
• No water ingress visible
• Emergency release operates (if fitted)

Failure criteria:

• Damaged charging port
• Corroded pins
• Non-functioning door/cover
• Exposed live components

Regenerative Braking System

Functionality Check:

• System operates correctly
• No warning lights
• Smooth operation
• Brake light activation when regen braking

Integration Check:

• Works with traditional brakes
• Transitions smoothly
• No unusual noises
• Consistent feel

Failure points:

• Regen system warning lights
• Inconsistent brake feel
• System completely non-functional

Cooling System Checks

Electric Motor/Battery Cooling:

• Coolant level adequate (if visible)
• No leaks from cooling system
• Cooling fans operate (if air-cooled)
• No damage to cooling components

Thermal Management:

• Warning lights for overheating
• Coolant hoses intact
• Radiator condition (if liquid-cooled)

Failure criteria:

• Coolant leaks
• Overheating warnings
• Damaged cooling system components

Power Electronics Inspection

Inverter/Converter:

• Mounting secure
• No coolant leaks
• Cables secure
• No warning lights

DC-DC Converter (12V system):

• Functioning correctly
• 12V battery charged
• No warning lights

On-Board Charger:

• Secure mounting
• No visible damage
• Cooling adequate

Common Electric Car MOT Failures

Based on early data and industry feedback, here are the most likely EV-specific failures:

1. Tyre Wear (Most Common)

Why EVs fail:

• Heavier weight (200-300kg more than equivalent petrol car)
• Instant torque causes wheel spin
• Tyres wear 20-30% faster than petrol cars

Symptoms:

• Uneven wear patterns
• Reduced tread depth
• Edge wear from weight

Costs:

• Budget tyres: £80-120 per tyre
• Premium tyres: £120-200 per tyre
• EV-specific tyres: £150-250 per tyre

Prevention:

• Check tread monthly
• Rotate tyres every 5,000 miles
• Maintain correct pressures
• Use EV-rated tyres

2. Brake Corrosion

Why EVs fail:

• Regenerative braking reduces traditional brake use
• Discs and pads corrode from inactivity
• Surface rust causes uneven braking

Symptoms:

• Squealing when braking
• Vibration through brake pedal
• Longer stopping distances
• Visible rust on discs

Costs:

• Brake disc cleaning: £40-80
• Brake pads and discs: £200-400 per axle

Prevention:

• Use traditional brakes occasionally
• Reduce regen strength periodically
• Regular brake usage maintains condition

3. Warning Light Issues

Common warnings:

• Battery management system faults
• High-voltage isolation warnings
• Charging system errors
• 12V battery low warnings

Why they occur:

• 12V battery drain (less charging while driving)
• Software glitches
• Sensor faults
• Genuine system issues

Costs:

• Diagnostic scan: £40-80
• 12V battery replacement: £150-250
• Software update: £0-100
• Sensor replacement: £100-300

4. Suspension Wear

Why EVs fail:

• Heavy battery weight stresses components
• Lower center of gravity changes loading
• Faster wear on shock absorbers

Costs:

• Shock absorbers: £200-500 per axle
• Coil springs: £150-300 per axle
• Bushes and mounts: £100-250

5. Windscreen Damage

EV-specific issue:

• Acoustic glass used on many EVs
• More expensive to replace
• Sensors for ADAS systems

Costs:

• Chip repair: £30-80 (often insurance covered)
• Windscreen replacement: £200-800 (Tesla/premium brands higher)

6. Charging Port Damage

From November 2025:

• Damaged charging ports = fail
• Corroded pins
• Broken door/cover

Causes:

• Vandalism
• User damage (forcing cable)
• Weather exposure
• Wear and tear

Costs:

• Port door replacement: £100-200
• Complete port assembly: £300-800
• Dealer repair may be required

How to Prepare Your Electric Car for MOT

4 Weeks Before MOT

Check Your MOT History:

• Review previous advisories
• Note any EV-specific issues
• Plan repairs if needed

Check your MOT history free →

Inspect Tyres:

• Measure tread depth (20p test)
• Look for uneven wear
• Check for damage
• Ensure correct pressure

Check Warning Lights:

• Start vehicle fully
• All warnings should extinguish
• Note any that stay illuminated
• Book diagnostic if needed

2 Weeks Before MOT

Visual Inspection:

• Check under car for damage
• Look for coolant leaks
• Inspect charging port
• Check high-voltage warning labels visible

Use Brakes Normally:

• Reduce regenerative braking setting
• Use brake pedal more frequently
• Clears surface corrosion
• Ensures proper brake operation

Check 12V Battery:

• Ensure fully charged
• Many EVs have 12V battery issues
• Warning light = MOT fail
• Replacement if old (£150-250)

1 Week Before MOT

Complete Standard Checks:

• All lights working
• Wipers and washers functioning
• Mirrors secure
• Number plates clean
• No windscreen damage
• Seat belts working

Full MOT checklist →

Software Updates:

• Check for manufacturer recalls
• Update software if available
• May resolve warning lights
• Some require dealer visit

Day Before MOT

Charge Battery:

• Ensure reasonable charge (50%+)
• Allows all systems to function
• Prevents low battery warnings

Clean Vehicle:

• Wash exterior
• Clean windows
• Remove unnecessary items
• Clear debris from under car

Final Light Check:

• Walk around test
• All lights functioning
• No warning lights on dash

Electric Car MOT Costs

MOT Test Fee

Standard fee: £54.85 maximum (same as petrol/diesel cars)

Actual costs: £30-55 depending on garage

No additional fees: Despite new EV-specific checks from November 2025, no increase in MOT fee expected.

Common EV Repair Costs

Tyres:

• Budget EV tyres: £80-120 each
• Premium EV tyres: £120-200 each
• EV-specific (low rolling resistance): £150-250 each

Brakes:

• Front brake pads and discs: £200-400
• Rear brake pads and discs: £180-350
• Brake corrosion clean: £40-80

Suspension:

• Shock absorbers (pair): £200-600
• Springs (pair): £150-300
• Bushes and mounts: £100-250

12V Battery:

• Replacement: £150-250
• Typical lifespan: 3-5 years

Windscreen:

• Chip repair: £30-80 (often insurance)
• Replacement: £200-800 (acoustic glass more expensive)

Charging Port:

• Port door: £100-200
• Full port assembly: £300-800

Total Budget for EV MOT

Well-maintained EV: £55-150 (test + minor issues) Moderate issues: £200-400 (test + tyres or brakes) Major problems: £500-1,200 (test + suspension + tyres)

Typically cheaper than petrol/diesel: No emissions system repairs (DPF, catalytic converter, exhaust).

EV-Specific MOT Considerations

Battery Warranty and MOT

Manufacturer warranties:

• Typically 8 years or 100,000 miles
• Covers battery degradation below threshold (usually 70%)
• MOT doesn't test battery capacity
• Separate from MOT testing

Battery health:

• Not formally tested in MOT
• Warning lights indicate issues
• Severe degradation may trigger warnings

Fast Charging Impact

Does fast charging affect MOT?

• Not directly
• May accelerate battery degradation
• Could trigger warning lights eventually
• Use mix of charging speeds for battery health

Software and Over-the-Air Updates

Keep software updated:

• Resolves bugs and warnings
• May improve system efficiency
• Some updates require dealer visit
• Check manufacturer app regularly

Tesla-Specific Considerations

Service mode:

• Testers may need service mode access
• Inform garage in advance
• Required for brake testing on some models

Jack points:

• Specific lift points for battery protection
• Most MOT centres familiar
• Worth confirming when booking

November 2025 Changes: What They Mean

Why New Requirements?

Reasons for EV-specific checks:

• Aging EV population (more 3+ year old EVs)
• Battery safety concerns
• High-voltage system risks
• Fire prevention
• Charging infrastructure damage

Industry preparation:

• MOT testers receiving EV training
• New equipment for some centres
• Updated inspection manual
• Safety protocols for HV systems

Impact on EV Owners

Likely outcomes:

• Slightly longer MOT test (5-10 minutes)
• More thorough inspection
• Earlier detection of issues
• Improved safety standards

No major cost increase expected:

• Visual inspections mainly
• No specialist equipment required for most checks
• Test fee remains £54.85

What to Do Before November 2025

Prepare now:

• Inspect high-voltage cables visually
• Check charging port condition
• Ensure warning labels present
• Address any warning lights
• Consider inspection at dealer

EVs vs Petrol/Diesel MOT Comparison

Hybrid Vehicles

Plug-in hybrids (PHEVs) and mild hybrids (MHEVs):

• Need MOT after 3 years
• Tested for both electric AND combustion systems
• Emissions test required (petrol/diesel engine)
• New EV-specific checks from November 2025
• More complex than pure EVs or conventional cars

Hybrid MOT requirements →

Electric Car MOT Checklist

Use this checklist 1 week before your EV MOT:

Tyres:

• Tread depth above 1.6mm (all tyres)
• No cuts, bulges, or damage
• Correct pressure
• EV-rated tyres fitted

Brakes:

• Brake pedal firm (not spongy)
• No squealing or grinding
• Brake fluid level adequate
• Handbrake holds on slope

Lights:

• All headlights working
• Brake lights illuminate
• Indicators flash correctly
• Fog lights functional (if fitted)
• Number plate lights on

Dashboard:

• No warning lights stay on
• Battery management system OK
• ABS light extinguishes
• 12V battery warning not shown

Charging Port:

• Door/cover operates correctly
• No visible damage
• Pins not corroded
• Locking mechanism works

Visual Checks:

• High-voltage warning labels present
• No visible battery damage
• Windscreen no cracks
• Mirrors secure
• Wipers and washers work
• Seat belts function correctly
• Number plates clean and legible

Battery and Systems:

• Battery charged (50%+)
• Software updated
• No coolant leaks visible
• All systems functioning normally

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Teslas need MOT?

Yes, all Tesla models require MOT testing 3 years after first registration, then annually. There are no exemptions for Tesla or any other EV brand.

Is EV MOT cheaper than petrol car MOT?

The test fee is identical (maximum £54.85). However, EVs typically have fewer emissions-related failures, potentially making overall costs lower. Tyre replacement is more frequent though, offsetting some savings.

What fails an electric car MOT?

Common EV failures include worn tyres (faster wear due to weight), corroded brakes (less frequent use), warning lights (battery management, 12V system), worn suspension (heavy battery), and standard items (lights, windscreen, seat belts).

Will my EV battery be tested in MOT?

From November 2025, battery casing integrity, mounting, and warning lights are checked. However, battery capacity and health are NOT formally tested. Only visible damage and warnings cause failure.

Can I drive my EV to MOT if MOT has expired?

Yes, but only directly to a pre-booked MOT test appointment by the most direct route. Same rules apply as petrol/diesel cars.

Do I need to charge my EV before MOT?

Charge to at least 50% to ensure all systems function correctly during testing. Low battery may prevent full system checks.

How long does an electric car MOT take?

Currently 30-50 minutes (5-10 minutes quicker than petrol/diesel due to no emissions test). From November 2025, expect 35-55 minutes with new EV-specific checks.

Are EV MOT failures common?

Early data suggests similar failure rates to petrol cars (around 30%). Tyres and brakes are most common EV-specific issues.

Conclusion

Electric cars absolutely need MOT testing after three years, and from November 2025, face additional checks specific to EV technology. While EVs benefit from no emissions testing, they face unique challenges including:

EV advantages:

• No emissions test (saves time)
• Fewer exhaust/engine-related failures
• Simpler drivetrain = fewer failure points

EV challenges:

• Faster tyre wear (heavier weight)
• Brake corrosion (infrequent use)
• New battery/charging system checks (2025)
• Specialist knowledge required

Preparation is key:

• Regular tyre checks (faster wear)
• Occasional full brake use (prevents corrosion)
• Keep software updated
• Address warning lights promptly
• Understand new 2025 requirements

Check your EV's MOT history to see previous test results, advisories, and plan ahead for common issues.

Check your electric car's MOT history → - Free instant results showing all past tests, mileage progression, and any advisories noted.

Electric cars are still relatively new to MOT testing, with most under 3 years old. As the EV fleet ages and November 2025 changes come into effect, understanding EV-specific requirements becomes increasingly important for all electric vehicle owners.