RHR Automotive provides Class 5 and Class 7 MOT testing for minibuses and heavier commercial vehicles from our Poole workshop, covering Bournemouth, Ferndown, Wimborne and across Dorset. Larger vehicle MOT testing requires specialist knowledge — our team is experienced with the additional requirements these vehicles carry.
While Class 4 covers most private cars and smaller vans, vehicles with more than 8 passenger seats or larger gross vehicle weights require different MOT classes. Class 5 applies to private passenger vehicles with 9 to 12 seats — including minibuses used for community transport, school runs and private hire. Class 7 covers goods vehicles between 3,000kg and 3,500kg gross vehicle weight.
The additional weight and usage patterns of these vehicles place greater demands on braking systems, tyres, steering and suspension. The test criteria reflect this — commercial vehicles face stricter braking efficiency requirements, and seat belt condition and functionality becomes more extensive for passenger-carrying vehicles.
At RHR Automotive, we treat commercial vehicle MOT testing with the same rigour we apply to all our work. Operators who rely on these vehicles for their livelihood or for transporting passengers can be confident that our test results are accurate and our advice is honest.
Commercial vehicles carry greater legal obligations than private cars. Operators of minibuses and commercial vans are responsible not only for their own safety but for passengers, cargo and other road users. A thorough MOT is not just a legal requirement — it is a critical part of responsible vehicle operation and fleet management.
Based in Poole, serving Bournemouth and the wider Dorset area. You deal directly with the mechanics working on your vehicle — no call centres, no middlemen.
We invest in professional-grade diagnostic tools to identify faults accurately, saving you time and unnecessary repair costs.
We'll explain exactly what needs doing and why before any work begins. No surprise invoices.
From city cars to light commercials, our workshop handles a wide range of vehicles from leading manufacturers.
Class 5 and 7 vehicles face stricter braking efficiency standards. Heavier loads accelerate brake pad and disc wear significantly.
Commercial tyres must meet load and speed ratings appropriate for the vehicle. Under-rated or worn tyres cause automatic failures.
For Class 5 passenger vehicles, each passenger seat requires a functioning seat belt. Frayed webbing or inoperative buckles cause failures.
Larger vehicles carry more lighting obligations. All marker lights, indicators and stop lamps must function correctly.
The additional weight of commercial vehicles increases wear rates on steering rack components, track rod ends and suspension bushes.
Commercial diesel engines must meet emissions standards. A blocked DPF or failing injector can cause smoke-related test failures.
Based in Poole, we regularly work with customers from across the region.
Our team is ready to help. Contact us today or submit a request and we'll be in touch promptly.