Does my motorhome, motorcycle or trailer need an MOT?

You probably already knew that the vast majority of cars (but not all) require an MOT. But does the same apply to your motorhome, motorcycle or trailer?

The main inspection is intended to prevent cars that are in poor condition from driving on public roads. During the inspection, the inspector not only checks the technical condition of your car, he also checks whether all emissions standards are met.

General periodic inspection for an engine?

Most motorcycles also emit emissions and technical safety is even more important for a two-wheeler than for a car. After all, a loose wheel has greater consequences for a motorcyclist than for a car driver.

Although there have been discussions about a TÜV requirement for motorcycles for a long time, this does not yet apply. However, it is strongly recommended that you keep an eye on the technical condition of your motorcycle, because as a motorcyclist you are extremely at risk. If you ride a trike, you must visit the inspector regularly. The same inspection requirement applies to three-wheeled motorcycles between 400 and 3,500 kilograms as to passenger cars.

Motorhomes must be checked

The same applies to mobile homes that weigh less than 3,500 kilograms. This means that a motorhome (with diesel) must undergo its first inspection at the age of three.

Motorhomes weighing more than 3,500 kilograms fall into the “heavy vehicle” category and must be inspected after one year and then returned annually. However, as with cars and mobile homes under 3.5 tonnes, the TÜV requirement expires if the vehicle is older than 50 years.

TÜV requirement for a trailer or caravan?

There is no TÜV requirement for trailers weighing less than 3,500 kilograms. However, it is a legally required inspection for anyone who has a trailer (or caravan) weighing over this weight. “A new trailer or trailer weighing more than 3,500 kilograms must pass its first MOT after one year. After the first inspection, a trailer must also be checked every year,” says the RDW.

A trailer is generally not very complicated. Nevertheless, the necessary points are checked for a trailer. Consider, among other things, the breakaway cable, drawbar, lighting, brakes, tires, shock absorbers and of course the condition of the chassis itself. Curiously, trailers no longer require an inspection after 50 years.