Can You Get an MOT Without a Wheel Locking Bolt?

Yes, you can still get an MOT test without a wheel locking bolt, but it may cause some issues during the inspection. A wheel locking bolt (also known as a locking wheel nut key) is a tool used to remove the locking nuts on your vehicle's wheels. These are often included with your car when it is sold, especially with alloy wheels that have special locking nuts to prevent theft.

Why Are Wheel Locking Bolts Important for the MOT?

During an MOT, the vehicle's tyres and wheels are inspected for safety. If the car has wheel locking nuts, the tester needs to be able to remove them to check the condition of the tyres and wheels. If you do not have the wheel locking bolt, the tester may not be able to perform this check, and the vehicle could fail its MOT until the issue is addressed.

If you've lost the wheel locking bolt or cannot find it, the best course of action is to contact your car dealer or a professional who can remove the locking nuts for you. Many MOT test centres also offer this service for a small fee, but it's always better to have the locking bolt available beforehand to avoid delays.

What Happens If I Don't Have a Wheel Locking Bolt for the MOT?

If you don't have the wheel locking bolt, the MOT tester may not be able to check the wheels properly, which could lead to a failed MOT. However, it's generally possible to get the vehicle tested by using an alternative tool or removing the locking nuts beforehand, so the test can continue.

If you have lost your wheel locking bolt, it's important to either replace it or have the locking nuts removed by a professional. You can also check if the wheel locking bolt is still available for your vehicle through the manufacturer or an authorised dealer.

Can I Still Get an MOT if the Locking Bolt Is Missing?

Yes, you can still get an MOT, but if the tester cannot remove the locking nuts, it may prevent them from fully inspecting the tyres or wheels, which could delay the test. To avoid problems, it's best to ensure the wheel locking bolt is present and easily accessible before your test.

Where to Find a Replacement Wheel Locking Key

  • Car dealer: Contact the dealer where you bought the vehicle
  • Manufacturer: Reach out to the car manufacturer directly
  • Specialist services: Some companies specialise in removing and replacing locking nuts
  • Your vehicle documents: The key code may be in your vehicle handbook

Conclusion

While it's possible to get an MOT test without a wheel locking bolt, it's better to have it available to avoid any complications. If the MOT tester can't remove the locking nuts, it may result in a delay or failure. Always ensure you have the necessary tools before the test to ensure a smooth and timely MOT process. If you're unsure about your car's MOT status or have lost your locking bolt, use our MOT Check tool to stay informed.

Related Articles:

What is checked during an MOT test?Most common MOT failure reasonsCan you get an MOT without a logbook?

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, but it may cause delays in the test if the tester cannot remove the locking nuts to inspect the wheels. It's best to have the locking bolt available to ensure the test goes smoothly.

If you lose your wheel locking bolt, you may need to have the locking nuts removed by a professional before the MOT test. Some MOT centres can also help with this.

Yes, the MOT can still be done, but it may not include a proper inspection of the wheels if the locking nuts cannot be removed. This could result in an incomplete test.

You can contact the car manufacturer or an authorised dealer to replace your lost wheel locking bolt. Many car dealerships can provide a replacement using your vehicle's unique code.

Can You Get an MOT Without a Wheel Locking Bolt? | VehicleScore