Pre-NCT check: what we inspect at V.T. Motors

All 50 inspection points across 6 systems, exactly as the NCT centre checks them.

A Pre-NCT inspection at V.T. Motors covers the same 50 points the NCT centre checks, in the same order. Below is the exact list.

1. Lighting (12 points)

• Headlight beam aim (left and right)
• Headlight intensity
• Indicator lights (front, rear, side)
• Brake lights (left, right, centre high-mounted)
• Reverse light
• Number-plate lights (left and right)
• Fog lights (front and rear)
• Hazard warning lights
• Dash warning lamps (no lit codes)

2. Tyres & wheels (8 points)

• Tread depth (≥1.6mm across full tread width)
• Sidewall damage, cuts, bulges
• Tyre matching across an axle (same size, same type)
• Wheel alignment indicator (uneven wear pattern)
• Spare tyre / repair kit presence
• Wheel-nut torque check
• Tyre date code (no >10-year-old tyres)
• Tyre pressure (within manufacturer spec)

3. Brakes (10 points)

• Pad thickness (front and rear)
• Disc thickness and condition
• Caliper operation (no sticking)
• Brake fluid level and condition
• Hand-brake travel and grip
• Imbalance check (left vs right)
• ABS warning lamp behaviour
• Brake hose integrity
• Brake light switch operation
• Pedal feel and travel

4. Emissions (6 points)

• CO & HC test (petrol)
• Smoke opacity (diesel)
• EGR / DPF status indicator
• Exhaust integrity (joints, flexi, silencer)
• Catalytic converter check
• Lambda sensor function (where applicable)

5. Steering & suspension (8 points)

• Shock absorber bounce test
• Ride height
• Track-rod ends and ball joints
• Anti-roll bar links and bushings
• Steering play
• Power steering function
• Sub-frame mounting integrity
• Steering column condition

6. Body, seat, mirrors (6 points)

• Wing mirror cracking and coverage
• Seat belt operation and pre-tensioner light
• Wipers and washer jets
• Windscreen condition (no cracks in driver’s view)
• Visible structural rust
• Seat anchorage

What you get from us

A printed copy of all 50 points marked pass / fail / advisory. For any fail or advisory, we quote the cost to put it right — on the spot, before any work begins. The €49 fee is flat; quotes for repairs are separate and signed before we start.

Book a Pre-NCT — phone 01 847 5146.