The MOT test changes in May: everything you need to know

The MOT test is about to undergo a major overhaul introducing new rules that could make it harder for vehicles to pass.

It comes as part of an EU directive ordering all cars to meet the European Union Roadworthiness Package.

While the UK voted to leave the EU in the Brexit referendum, it will still be an EU member when the directive comes into force.

There is a risk that vehicles without a compliant EU MOT would not be allowed into other EU countries.

From May 20, changes to regulation will see new "minor", "major" and "dangerous" categories applied that may affect thousands of drivers.

The defect categories will be applied to cars, vans, motorbikes and other light passenger vehicles, with major and dangerous issues resulting in automatic failure.

There will be stricter limits for emissions from diesel cars fitted with a diesel particulate filter.

If smoke of any colour comes from the exhaust on these vehicles it will be classified as a major fault - resulting in a fail.

And there will also be new tests in the updated MOT, such as checks on steering.

The new plans will also mean that some cars over 40 years old will be exempt from the test.

At the moment, only vehicles first built before 1960 do not need an MOT.

But after the rules change, vehicles meeting certain criteria will not need an MOT from the 40th anniversary of when they were registered.

So if a car was first registered on May 31 1978, it won't need an MOT from May 31 2018.

Drivers must still keep their vehicle in a roadworthy condition and face fines up to £2,500 and three penalty points for using a vehicle in a dangerous condition.