What Vehicle Maintenance Is Legally Required in the UK? MOTs, Tyres and Safety Checks
Keeping a vehicle roadworthy in the UK isn’t just good practice — some aspects of maintenance are a legal requirement.
Understanding what you must maintain by law, and what is simply recommended, helps avoid fines, MOT failures, and unnecessary risk.
This guide explains the minimum legal maintenance requirements for cars and vans in the UK, and what owners are responsible for.
Is Vehicle Maintenance a Legal Requirement in the UK?
There is no law requiring regular servicing in the same way an MOT is required.
However, UK law does require vehicles to be safe and roadworthy at all times, regardless of whether an MOT certificate is in place.
Drivers are legally responsible for ensuring their vehicle meets safety standards whenever it is used on the road.
MOT Requirements Explained
Most vehicles in the UK must pass an MOT test once they are three years old.
An MOT checks that key safety and environmental standards are met on the day of the test, including:
- Brakes
- Lights
- Steering and suspension
- Tyres
- Emissions
An MOT certificate does not guarantee that a vehicle will remain safe for the next 12 months.
Tyre Condition and Tread Depth Laws
Tyres are one of the most closely regulated safety components.
By law, tyres must have:
- A minimum tread depth of 1.6mm
- This depth across the central three-quarters of the tyre
- No significant cuts, bulges, or exposed cords
Driving with illegal tyres can result in:
- Fines
- Penalty points
- Vehicle seizure in serious cases
Regular tyre checks are one of the simplest ways to stay compliant.
Lights, Indicators and Visibility
All exterior lights must be:
- Present
- Working correctly
- The correct colour
This includes:
- Headlights
- Brake lights
- Indicators
- Number plate lights
Windscreens must also be free from damage that obstructs the driver’s view.
Faulty lights or poor visibility can lead to MOT failure and roadside penalties.
Brakes, Steering and Suspension
Brakes, steering, and suspension components must be in safe working condition at all times.
Warning signs that require immediate attention include:
- Pulling to one side under braking
- Unusual knocking noises
- Excessive vibration through the steering wheel
Driving with known defects can invalidate insurance and lead to prosecution.
Do Vans Have Different Legal Requirements?
The core legal standards are the same for cars and vans.
However, vans often:
- Cover higher mileage
- Carry heavier loads
- Experience greater wear
As a result, van owners may need more frequent inspections to remain compliant, particularly for tyres and brakes.
For a broader overview of ongoing upkeep and ownership responsibilities, visit our Vehicle Maintenance Guidance hub.
Is Servicing Legally Required?
Servicing is not legally required, but failing to service a vehicle can still have legal consequences.
Poor maintenance can lead to:
- MOT failure
- Vehicle defects being identified at the roadside
- Insurance complications following an incident
Regular servicing helps ensure legal requirements continue to be met between MOTs.
Conclusion
UK law requires vehicles to be safe and roadworthy at all times, not just on the day of an MOT.
Checking tyres, lights, brakes, and safety-critical components regularly helps keep a vehicle compliant and reduces the risk of penalties or breakdowns.
If you want to understand how a vehicle’s current condition factors in today, you can get a free valuation to see where things stand.
