In the Netherlands, an electric car must go for its first MOT after 4 years, and then annually after that. This is exactly the same as for petrol cars. The MOT frequency for electric cars therefore does not differ from what you are used to. There are, however, a few specific inspection points that differ for electric cars compared to combustion engine vehicles. In this article, we answer the most frequently asked questions about the MOT for an electric car.
Do electric cars follow the same MOT schedule as petrol cars?
Yes, electric cars follow the same MOT schedule as petrol cars: the first inspection is required after 4 years, and then every year after that. This is independent of the type of drivetrain. Whether you drive on petrol, electricity, or a combination of both, the legal inspection requirement is the same.
Diesel cars, incidentally, follow a slightly different schedule: they go for their first MOT after 3 years. But for electric drivers, the 4-year schedule simply applies. Do you have a hybrid car? That also falls under the 4-year schedule, just like a fully electric car.
It is worth knowing that the government has no plans to change this schedule for electric vehicles. The reasoning behind this is that road safety is equally important for all vehicles, regardless of drivetrain.
What is checked during the MOT of an electric car?
During the MOT of an electric car, the same basic components are inspected as for a petrol car, supplemented by a number of specific checks for the electric system. Think of brakes, lighting, steering, tires, and bodywork. In addition, the inspection authority examines the condition of the high-voltage system and wiring.
What is specifically covered during the MOT of an electric car:
- High-voltage system: The wiring and connections of the battery pack are visually inspected for damage or hazardous conditions.
- Brakes: Electric cars brake partly through regenerative braking, but the conventional brakes are still tested for function and wear.
- Lighting and signaling: Headlights, turn signals, and brake lights must function properly.
- Tires: Tread depth and tire pressure are checked.
- Bodywork and chassis: Rust, damage, and the condition of the chassis are assessed.
- Acoustic warning system (AVAS): Newer electric cars are required to be fitted with an acoustic warning system for pedestrians. This system is also checked.
The battery capacity itself is not measured during the standard MOT. This is not part of the statutory inspection. If you want to know how your battery is holding up, you can have it checked separately at a specialized garage that carries out maintenance on electric cars.
Can an electric car fail its MOT?
Yes, an electric car can fail its MOT just like any other vehicle. The inspection authority assesses whether the vehicle is safe and roadworthy. If there are defects that compromise safety, you will receive a failure point or be required to undergo a re-inspection.
Common reasons why an electric car may fail its MOT:
- Faulty or poorly adjusted lighting
- Worn brake pads or damaged brake discs
- Tires with insufficient tread depth (a minimum of 1.6 mm is legally required)
- Visible damage to the high-voltage wiring
- A faulty acoustic warning system (AVAS)
- Rust or structural damage to the chassis
A failure point does not always mean you must have the car repaired before you can drive it again. For minor defects, you are typically given a certain period of time to resolve the issue. For serious defects, however, you may not continue driving until the car has been repaired. If you have any doubts, have your car checked in advance — it will save you a lot of hassle.
How much does an MOT inspection cost for an electric car?
The cost of an MOT inspection for an electric car typically ranges between 30 and 80 euros, depending on the garage or inspection station. There is no legally fixed rate, so prices can vary considerably between providers.
A few things to keep in mind:
- Large inspection chains often charge lower rates, but sometimes add extra costs for repairs or follow-up work.
- A dealership or specialized garage may charge slightly more, but often provides direct advice on any defects found.
- Some garages offer a combined package where the MOT is bundled with a service.
Don’t compare on price alone. A cheap MOT at an inspection station with little knowledge of electric vehicles could end up costing you more in the long run if something is overlooked.
Where can you go for the MOT of an electric car?
For the MOT of an electric car, you can go to authorized MOT inspection stations and garages with official MOT accreditation. Not every garage holds this accreditation, so check in advance. You do not necessarily have to go to a dealership for your car’s brand.
When choosing a suitable location for the MOT of your electric car, it is wise to pay attention to:
- MOT accreditation: Required. Without accreditation, a garage is not permitted to carry out an official MOT.
- Knowledge of electric vehicles: A garage that is familiar with high-voltage systems and electric drivetrains will inspect your car with greater expertise.
- Clear communication: It is a good sign when a garage clearly explains what has been checked and highlights any points of concern.
How Autobedrijven Verdonk helps with the MOT of your electric car
At Autobedrijven Verdonk in Veldhoven, we carry out MOT inspections for all makes, including electric and hybrid cars. We are specifically trained and equipped to work with high-voltage systems and electric drivetrains. This means we don’t just tick off the standard MOT checkpoints — we also bring genuine expertise to the inspection of the electric system.
What we offer:
- Official MOT inspections for all car brands
- Expertise in electric and hybrid vehicles
- Honest explanations of any defects, without jargon
- Direct advice on repairs or points of attention following the inspection
- Transparent pricing and personal service
Autobedrijven Verdonk also carries out maintenance and repairs for all other car brands.
Would you like to have your electric car inspected, or do you have questions about the MOT? Feel free to get in touch or visit us in Veldhoven. Read more about our history and why customers have been coming back to us for over 95 years.