What Are the Different Types of MOT Bay?

Looking into adding an MOT bay to your workshop? If you’re not sure which type of bay you need, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’re going to take a closer look at each of the different types and what sets them apart from one another, allowing you to make an informed decision on which one’s best suited to you.

Class 1 and 2
If you predominantly work on motorcycles, this is the type of bay you’ll need. Class 1 and 2 vehicles include:

• Motorcycles
• Scooters
• Mopeds
• Sidecars

Class 1 and 2 bays consist of roller brake testers, headlamp testers and, optionally, lifts. This means they utilise much of the same equipment as Class 4 and 7 bays, but in a different format; for example, motorcycle brake testers and lifts can be much smaller, as there are only two wheels to test instead of four. It is possible to make adaptations to a Class 4 bay to make it suitable for bike testing, but if you work exclusively with bikes, this isn’t recommended. Not only do Class 1 and 2 bays make the testing process easier, they also take up less space and are more affordable - a no brainer!

Class 4
The most common type of MOT bay. Class 4 covers regular passenger cars, making it the default choice for workshops looking to cater for the largest possible customer base. Our Class 4 MOT bay installations include:

• Four-post lifts
• Smoke and gas analysers
• Brake testers
• Play detectors
• Jacking beams
• Headlight beam testers
• Decelerometers

Class 7 
Class 7 encompasses light commercial vehicles weighing between 3 and 3.5 tonnes - think Ford Transits, Mercedes-Benz Sprinters, Volkswagen Crafters and so on. At first glance there’s little difference between this type of bay and a Class 4 installation, but this isn’t the case. Class 7 MOT bays utilise beefier lifting equipment to safely cope with the increased size and weight of commercial vehicles, making them a must for businesses looking to test vans and small trucks. Much of the testing equipment remains the same, however, so these bays can also be used to test passenger cars. The only drawback? They’re more expensive and take up more space.

Speak to the experts at Hofmann Megaplan
Looking for a comprehensive, turnkey solution? Our MOT bay installation service is exactly that. As well as supplying all of the necessary equipment, we can install it to a high standard and provide ongoing support, helping you hit the ground running. Contact us today to learn more.