QuestionHi, I bought a car March last year. Mainly because it was a steal, the previous owner kept it in perfect shape, not a single thing wrong, it had full history and everything. So I bought it but trying to learn and pay for everything has taken its time and the car has barely moved. I kept the engine ticking over and took it out once a month for a good drive round the area but after 8month the battery went dead, I changed it and carried on but that went dead again after 2months. The car has been sat since January and I'm now passed my test but I need to get the car on the road again. The body is in good shape, the tyres are good, the brakes have rust on but I've been told to drive with my foot on the brakes to take this off and it should be ok. Apart for this what should I do, I need to get it in for an MOT before I can drive it but worried about getting a huge list of hundreds of pounds for repairs. My own fault I know but it's my pride and joy, I bought all of it on my own so I don't want to get rid of it. Will be great if you could advise. Thank you. Paul.
AnswerHi Paul, I know that your first car is like your first love so I am sure we can restore her to her former glory. Start with an oil change and new filter (If you can afford to add an engine flush, do so). The petrol in the tank should be scrapped or at least topped up with fresh new petrol. As far as the MOT goes, just present the car for test and as long as it is safe and all the lights work, everything should be fine (don't worry about the surface rust on the brake discs, but try and remove as much as possible before the MOT).
During the MOT the following (among others) will come under scrutiny.
1) lights (side, head, mainbeam, indicators, side repeaters, tail, brake, number plate) will be tested for operation and the headlights will be tested for alignment.
2) seatbelts (for structure, damage and clasp)
3) tyres (tread must be above 1.6mm across the central 3/4 of the tread and through the entire circumference) the spare is not tested.
4) steering geometry ( just check each wheel for play (looseness) Hold the wheel (front and rear) top and bottom and 'wiggle' it this tests the wheel bearings. hold the (front) wheel at 9 and 3 and do the same, this tests the ball joints, the track rod end and the wishbone bush.
5) Shocks and springs (check for controlled bounce and damage to springs)
6) Exhaust, If your exhaust is leaking or not properly supported, you will NOT pass.
7) All doors and openings must open from both the inside and outside.
8) oil leaks are allowed, fuel, brake fluid and water are not.
9) Do not hang air fresheners or anything else from your rear view mirror.
10) Your brakes will be tested for efficiency.
hope this helps you to get her back on the road - Paul
