Many classic vehicles are exempt from annual MOT testing, but they still need to be safe and roadworthy whenever they are used on public roads.
White's Bodyworks provides dedicated safety inspections for classic and historic vehicles from our workshop in West Sussex. We assess the areas most likely to affect safe use, including brakes, steering, suspension, tyres, structure, lighting and visible signs of deterioration.
This can be particularly useful for MOT-exempt vehicles, cars returning to the road after storage, or owners who simply want an experienced second opinion before using their classic more regularly.
Qualifying historic vehicles may be exempt from annual MOT testing, but exemption does not remove the owner's responsibility to keep the vehicle roadworthy.
An annual safety inspection provides an opportunity to identify developing problems before they affect the safe use of the car.
We focus on the condition of the vehicle rather than treating the inspection as a routine service. The aim is to establish whether anything requires immediate attention, should be monitored or would benefit from further investigation.
If the vehicle is still subject to an MOT, or you would prefer to continue having it tested, see our classic car servicing and MOT service.
Older vehicles can develop problems through both mileage and age, even when they are used relatively infrequently.
Our inspections concentrate on safety-critical areas such as:
The exact inspection depends on the vehicle because older cars vary enormously in design, age and specification.
Low mileage does not necessarily mean a classic car is in good condition.
Vehicles that spend long periods stored can develop seized or corroded brake components, deteriorated tyres, perished hoses and seals, electrical problems and corrosion that may not be obvious until the car is inspected properly.
A safety check can therefore be useful before a vehicle returns to the road after winter storage, a long lay-up or a period of very occasional use.
If the car requires mechanical recommissioning or routine maintenance as well as an inspection, we can advise whether it would be better booked through our classic servicing service.
The purpose of the inspection is to give you a clearer picture of the vehicle's condition.
If we identify a problem, we will explain what we have found, whether it affects roadworthiness and what further work may be appropriate.
Not every imperfection on an older vehicle requires immediate repair. Part of inspecting a classic properly is understanding the difference between normal age-related characteristics, developing wear and defects that present a genuine safety concern.
Where repairs are required, White's can carry out mechanical work, classic car welding, body repairs and other suitable remedial work in-house.
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