M.O.T.

[Admiral]

A friend (TC) went with me on Thursday to MOT my car. Guy on duty claimed could not see engine number saying it was too dirty, Had been serviced two days previously and mechanic had cleaned it prior to the "test". Had to go back twice more after two other garages in the area had also cleaned it before the guy in the MOT testing station actually could see it.
My friend took his van on Friday to the same gent in the testing station. He wasn't bothered about the engine number but did ask "triangle?" "Yes, on the rear seat". "First Aid kit?" "Yes, on the rear seat". "Fire extinguisher?" "what? When do we need a fire extinguisher from". Guy said no fire extinguisher, no pass." My friend went to the nearest accessory shop and paid 120Lira for one, took it to the testing station and guy said "OK collect your certificate" and walked away.

Is this tester making it up as he goes along, or is it now a legal requirement to carry it around in your car?

[EnjoyingTheSun]

You've had to carry a fire extinguisher in your car for the last 4 years to my knowledge

[sophie]

And just how many people actually have one? Last time I asked if he wanted to see triangle etc and he said "if you like". He didn't in the end. Just depends who is on duty and if they've had their morning/afternoon coffee. Never had a fire extinguisher but guess I'd better get one now. Have been pulled up twice for not having correct mud guards. Can't find one the doesn't fall off after a while.

[come_on_aylin]

First one we did in 2008, we had to get number plate replaced as it had slight water damage at the edge, not anywhere near the number. Went away got that done, came back, then they refused to look at it until it was washed. By time we did that they had closed for lunch. Happy days... Must admit thought they'd got better, we've never had a fire extinguisher and been through the MOT test quite a few times including late last year.

[lilnrob]

Regardless of the MOT requirement its wise to carry a fire extinguisher in your car, the dry powder type is the most appropriate for fuel or electrical fires. that said if you don't know how to use the extinguisher move well away from the vehicle and let it burn, serious injury can occur if you don't know how to use the extinguisher.

[Mr Chinnery]

Lilnrob,
Yes quite correct just ask Basil Fawlty !