Owning a campervan or motorhome offers the freedom to explore the UK’s scenic routes — but just like any vehicle, it must pass an MOT test to ensure roadworthiness. However, the MOT process for these vehicles isn’t identical to that for regular cars. Campervans and motorhomes often have different classifications, sizes, and interior conversions, which can affect how they’re tested.

If you’re unsure when your next MOT is due, you can easily check your vehicle’s status on CheckMot.com.

Understanding Vehicle Classification

The first major difference in MOT checks for campervans and motorhomes lies in vehicle classification.

• Campervans are typically smaller, often converted from panel vans like the VW Transporter or Ford Transit. Most fall under Class 4, the same category as standard cars.
• Motorhomes, on the other hand, tend to be larger and heavier. If the vehicle’s gross weight exceeds 3,000kg, it may fall under Class 7, which has stricter inspection criteria for components such as brakes, suspension, and tyres.

Knowing your vehicle’s class is essential — taking it to a test centre equipped for the correct category prevents delays or failed inspections.

Key Differences in the MOT Test

While many checks overlap with standard car MOTs, campervans and motorhomes require additional consideration due to their size, weight, and internal features.

1. Weight and Load Testing

Heavier vehicles undergo more detailed brake efficiency tests and suspension inspections. The MOT tester ensures that load-bearing components can handle the vehicle’s maximum authorised mass (MAM).

2. Lighting and Electrical Systems

As campervans often have electrical aftermarket modifications, such as extra lighting or interior systems, these must not interfere with the vehicle’s road lighting or cause safety hazards.

3. Body Condition and Structural Integrity

Since many motorhomes have conversions or built-on living compartments, examiners check for structural integrity, ensuring modifications haven’t compromised safety or stability.

4. Seatbelts and Seating Arrangements

If additional seats have been installed for passengers, each must have properly fitted seatbelts that meet MOT safety standards.

5. Emissions and Engine Performance

Emissions are tested according to the vehicle’s fuel type and age, just like a standard car, but large diesel motorhomes often face stricter emission standards due to their higher output engines.

Preparing Your Campervan or Motorhome for an MOT

Here are some tips to help you prepare for your MOT test:

• Check all lights, tyres, and wipers before the test.
• Make sure mirrors and windows are secure and unobstructed.
• Remove unnecessary items from the living area to make access easier.
• Confirm your vehicle’s weight class to ensure the test centre is equipped for it.

Regular maintenance helps avoid common MOT failures, keeping your camper road-ready for every adventure. You can track MOT history and due dates anytime using CheckMot.com.

FAQ

Do campervans need an MOT every year?

Yes, like any other vehicle, campervans and motorhomes over three years old require an annual MOT test.

Can I take my motorhome to any MOT centre?

Not all centres can test large or heavy vehicles. Make sure the garage handles Class 7 MOTs if your vehicle exceeds 3,000kg.

Does the living area affect the MOT result?

Generally, the MOT focuses on the driving components, but any conversion affecting safety — such as loose fittings or exposed wiring — could lead to failure.

MOT checks for campervans and motorhomes may share many similarities with car tests, but the weight, size, and conversion features make them slightly more complex. Understanding these differences ensures smoother testing — and helps keep your next road trip worry-free.