The MOT on a campervan tests the chassis and cab of the vehicle. It does not test the habitation — the gas, the damp, the electrics, the bed frame, the cooker. Owners are routinely surprised by this. Here's what the test actually covers and the faults we see most often.
What MOT class does my camper need?
Most factory and converted campervans on a Ford Transit Custom, VW T6 or Vauxhall Vivaro base are Class 4 (vehicles up to 3,000kg). Larger Fiat Ducato- or Mercedes Sprinter-based motorhomes are usually Class 4 if under 3,000kg or Class 7 if 3,000–3,500kg. Anything over 3,500kg moves into HGV-territory testing.
Common camper MOT fail points
Headlight aim disturbed by the weight of the conversion. Front suspension bushes worn from carrying load. Handbrake travel out of spec on older Ducatos. Corroded brake pipes (particularly under sliding-door rails on conversions). Rear lights blocked by bike racks. Number plate illumination obscured by the bike rack or rear-mounted spare wheel.
What the MOT doesn't check
Damp ingress. Gas system. Habitation electrics (12V leisure circuits). Mains hook-up. Boiler. Fridge. Cooker. Bed frame integrity. Roof seals. Awning fittings. Solar panel mounting. All of these matter — none of them are part of the MOT. That's what a habitation check is for.
Preparation that pays off
Wash the van. Replace any failing bulbs before the test. Top up the screen wash. Check the wiper rubbers. Make sure registration plates are clean and unobscured. Take the bike rack off if it covers the rear plate or lights. None of those are technical — all of them prevent re-test fees.
Common questions
Can I book a camper MOT at any Class 4 station? Yes, provided the vehicle fits in the bay and is under 3,000kg. Larger motorhomes need a Class 7 test station.
How long does a camper MOT take? Allow 60–75 minutes — longer than a car, because of the extra checks and the time taken to manoeuvre into the bay.