Link is the 2012 PDF
http://mottesters.co.uk/files/special%20notices/MOT%20Inspection%20Manual.pdf
MoT test updated 2013
The MoT test is changing to make it comply with European Union regulations. The introduction of new technology has prompted the changes to the test, which was previously overhauled twenty years ago. Most of the updates involve the car's electrical systems. Xenon and LED headlamps will have their levelling brightness and cleaning systems checked, while the speedometer, airbags and electronic stability control systems will also be assessed to ensure they operate correctly. The new test will check more of the car's warning lights, including the electronic power steering indicator, electronic parking brake indicator and the tyre pressure monitoring system. Prices for the MoT test will be unchanged and the extra checks shouldn't noticeably increase the time required to complete the test. The MoT test will, however, remain an annual requirement for cars aged three years and over – bucking the trend set by some European countries that require cars to be tested once every two years.
The main changes from 2012 Electronic parking brake Electronic parking brake controls are now included and must be present and not inappropriately repaired or modified - repair obviously likely to adversely affect the roadworthiness of the vehicle or modification that has seriously weakened the component. (The 'inappropriately repaired or modified' check is to be applied to a wide range of systems and components throughout the vehicle.) The car will fail if an Electronic Parking Brake warning lamp is illuminated to indicate a malfunction. Electronic Stability Control Checks of anti-lock brakes will be extended to include Electronic Stability Control if fitted. The tester will check for the presence and correct operation of the ESC malfunction warning light together with looking for obviously missing, excessively damaged or inappropriately repaired or modified components and electrical wiring, as well as an ESC switch missing, insecure or faulty. Warning lights As well as electronic parking brake and electronic stability control warning lights (where fitted) the MOT test will also include checks for the correct function of the following, where fitted; Headlight main beam warning light Electronic power steering warning light Brake fluid level warning light Tyre pressure monitoring system warning light Airbag warning light Seat belt pre-tensioner warning light Steering & suspension The new test includes a check on the presence and correct function of the steering lock where fitted as standard. Missing, or split/damaged dust covers on steering and suspension ball-joints will result in failure if they will allow dirt to enter the joint. Power steering fluid level must be above the minimum level indicated on the reservoir. Lighting Products on the lens or light source that obviously reduce the light's intensity or change its colour will become a reason for failure – applies to front/rear position lamps, registration plate lamps, stop lamps, rear fog and direction indicators, Headlight requirements are updated to take account of the particular characteristics of High Intensity Discharge (HID) lamps. HID headlights can cause dazzle if they are dirty or aimed too high so car manufacturers must fit headlamp cleaning and levelling systems. A car will fail if a mandatory headlamp cleaning or levelling system is missing, doesn't work or is obviously defective. Vehicles fitted with aftermarket HID systems must also be fitted with properly working washer and levelling systems. If a headlamp bulb is not seated correctly the resulting beam pattern will be indistinct and this will result in a test fail. Electrical wiring and battery An insecure battery will be a reason for failure as will a battery that is leaking electrolyte. Visible wiring that is insecure, inadequately supported or likely to cause a short will also result in a failure as will wires bared by damaged insulation. Trailer/caravan electrical socket There will be a basic security/damage check of 7-pin sockets, 13-pin sockets will be subject to a full electrical connectivity check and incorrectly connected or inoperative circuits will result in failure. Tyres Tyre pressure monitoring systems fitted to vehicles first registered after 1 January 2012 must be working correctly and not indicating a malfunction. Supplementary restraints The vehicle will fail the test if any airbag fitted as original equipment is obviously missing or defective. A seatbelt pre-tensioner fitted as original equipment but missing or that has obviously deployed will be a reason for failure. Seatbelt load limiters that are missing where fitted as standard or folding webbing type limiters that have obviously deployed are also reasons for failure. The vehicle will also fail if an SRS malfunction light is missing, not working or indicating a fault. Speedometer The car will fail if a speedometer is not fitted, is incomplete, inoperative, has a dial glass broken/missing or cannot be illuminated. Seats It must be possible to secure the driver's seat fore and aft adjustment mechanism in two or three different positions. On electric seats the motors must move the seat fore and aft. Doors A rear door that cannot be opened from the outside using the relevant control is a new reason for failure. Doors must be easy to open and close – hinges, catches and pillars will be inspected. Tow bars Inappropriate repair or modification to the tow bar assembly will be a reason for failure if judged likely to affect the roadworthiness of the vehicle/trailer. Exhaust A catalytic convertor fitted as original equipment but missing will be a reason for failure. Fuel system Damaged or chafed fuel pipes will result in failure.