Steering and suspension
Knocks, play and worn bushes. Steering and suspension are tested in two separate sections of the MOT.
Monday to Saturday, 9am to 6pm. Sunday closed.
When to book it in
A knock or clunk over bumps or when turning.
Steering that pulls, wanders or feels loose.
The car keeps bouncing after a bump.
Uneven tyre wear.
Vibration through the steering wheel.
Worth knowing before you book
Replacing some steering or suspension parts changes the wheel alignment, so ask whether an alignment check is part of the job.
What the MOT does and does not cover
Steering and suspension are tested as two separate parts of the MOT. Steering has its own section, and axles, wheels, tyres and suspension share another.
DVSA MOT inspection manual
The steering section covers the mechanical condition of the parts, the steering wheel and column, the forks and yokes, and play in the linkage. Electric power steering is covered too.
DVSA MOT inspection manual
The suspension section covers springs, shock absorbers, and suspension arms and joints, including whether they are corroded or not properly secured.
DVSA MOT inspection manual
Excessive play in the steering linkage is a major defect, and so is a broken or missing spring. Both are a straight fail, not an advisory.
DVSA MOT inspection manual
Where this shows up in the MOT test
The MOT inspects these areas. Each link goes to the section of the test that covers it.
Steering
Each joint is rocked by hand. Any free movement at the wheel is a defect, not a comfort setting.
Manual section 2
Tyres and road wheels
Tread is measured against the legal minimum, and every sidewall is checked for cuts and bulges.
Manual section 5.2
Suspension
The car is lifted so each wheel can be rocked to expose play that is invisible when it is sat still.
Manual section 5.5
Book it in, or ask us first
We are at 19 Dane Road, Bletchley, Milton Keynes MK1 1JQ.