This is what it will cost you to pass your car's MOT in 2025

Although we always try to keep our car in good condition, going through the MOT test can make us nervous. Regardless of whether your car is new or old, or has many or few miles, all vehicles are required to undergo inspection four years after their first registration. Therefore, it is important to know which elements will be checked during the inspection to approach it as calmly as possible.

Firstly, the make, model, chassis number, and registration of the vehicle must match those indicated in its documentation. The owner must present the original Technical Inspection Card and the Vehicle Registration Certificate at the inspection.

Secondly, vehicles must not show signs of rust or corrosion in elements affecting safety systems, and should not have sharp edges that could injure pedestrians. Wipers and washers must function correctly, and the condition of doors and their mechanisms must ensure proper opening and closing. It is also checked that the glass is appropriately approved and free of cracks affecting visibility, and that the necessary mirrors are in good condition with optimal fixings.

Thirdly, vehicles must not have sharp edges or protrusions inside the cabin. It is checked that the seats are suitable and securely anchored to the body, and that they have the required seat belts, with special attention to their operation and fixing systems. If child restraint systems are present, they must be appropriate. The operation of the defrost and demist systems is verified, as well as the presence of anti-theft devices and speedometers, ensuring no obstacles limit direct visibility.

Fourthly, using a headlight tester, the alignment of dipped and main beam lights is checked. It is also verified that lighting and signalling devices are approved, have the required number of lights, and are all in perfect working order.

Fifthly, using an emissions analyser, it is checked that vehicle emissions levels are below those established according to their manufacturing date and fuel type. Additionally, the noise level produced must not exceed the current regulations.

Sixthly, using a roller brake tester, it is verified that the braking efficiency is above the minimum required for the vehicle type. It is also checked that the wheels on the same axle brake with the least possible imbalance between them. The condition and operation of elements related to the braking system, from the pedal to the wheel cylinder, are verified.

A seventh step is to check the condition and operation, as well as any play in the steering wheel, column, steering box, and all the linkages and joints of the vehicle's steering mechanism.

The general condition of the axles and wheels is also checked, ensuring that the tyres fitted to the vehicle are approved for that model or are equivalent. The various suspension components are also verified in relation to their fixings, damage, leaks, or protections.

Not forgetting the engine's condition, with special attention to oil leaks and the state of its mounts; the general condition and fixing of the battery, as well as the fuel tank, pipes, and potential leaks in the fuel system. The exhaust system is checked for possible breaks, deformations, and fixings, as well as the condition of the transmission and any leaks.

The MOT tariffs by Autonomous Communities have already been published (for exact knowledge, one must refer to the specific provision). The tariffs listed do not include VAT or the DGT fee for recording the inspection result in the General Vehicle Register (€4.18 for 2025); however, they do include the amount to be paid to each Autonomous Community for service management.

Moreover, depending on the community, you will pay more or less. Between the most expensive and the cheapest, there can be a difference of more than €25. Additionally, if your car is diesel, it will cost more than if it is petrol. For example, in the Basque Country, it reaches €52.68, followed by Madrid, with an average cost of €52.50, and Ceuta with €50.14. That's for petrol; if we talk about diesel, Madrid tops the list with an average price of €66.02, followed by Ceuta at €59.48, and Cantabria at €55.24.

Conversely, in the Balearic Islands, you can pass the MOT for just an average of €17, followed by Andalusia at €29.10, and Extremadura at €29.15. For diesel, Extremadura leads the most economical with a rate of €29.25, followed by the Balearic Islands at €30.92, and Andalusia at €34.21.