As you would expect, the MOT inspectors have a list of those items which need to be checked. Below is the list of items they will check.
Interior checks
Seats and seat belts
Warning lamps
Switches (position lamp, headlamp, hazards)
View to front, wipers and washers
Brake controls, servo operation
Steering wheel and column
Doors, mirrors, horn
Speedometer, driver controls (Class 5 only)
Exterior checks
Registration plates
Lamps, registration plate lamps
Indicators, hazards
Headlamps & aim
Stop lamps, fog lamps, reflectors
Wheels, tyres
Shock absorbers
Mirrors, wiper blades, fuel tank cap
Glazing (Class 5 only)
Doors, boot lid, loading doors, bonnet
Towbars
General condition of body
Under bonnet checks
Vehicle structure
Braking systems
Exhaust systems, fuel system
Speed limiter (if applicable)
Steering & power steering components
Suspension components
Under vehicle checks
Steering including power steering
Drive shafts (if applicable)
Suspension, shock absorbers
Wheel bearings
Wheels & tyres
Brake systems & mechanical components
Exhaust system
Fuel system & fuel tank
Structure, general vehicle condition