A raft of changes will be implemented in January 2012 which will represent the biggest overhaul of the MoT test since car emissions were included in the early 1990s.

Initially a motorist whose car fails to meet the new standards will be given a period of grace to make the necessary repairs. But by the end of the year the necessary repair will have to be done straight away for an MoT certificate to be issued.

The overhaul, which was announced by the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency, comes as the Government considers delaying the first MoT test until a car is four years old and extending the interval between inspections from one year to two.

However the tougher rules are being brought in to comply with EU requirements aimed at ensuring that the testing regime covers the latest innovations.

The new checks will include inspecting a series of dashboard warning lights telling drivers if there is a problem with their airbags, tyre pressures, power steering and main headlight beam. Power steering will also be subject to inspection with the MoT demanding a minimum level of fluid. Other items to be checked include anti-lock brakes and electronic stability control systems.

The new MoT will also demand tougher checks on the new generation of powerful headlights to ensure they do not dazzle oncoming motorists.

“The test is being brought in to make sure that all this new technology works properly,” said Jason Mawdsley of Academy Group.

“It means if you buy a nearly new car you will have to double check that all the warning lights are working properly, or you could be left with a hefty bill.

“The upside is that if you buy a car with an MoT you will know that these things have been tested properly.”

When the MoT was first introduced in 1960, it was mandatory for cars over 10 years old; this was reduced to three years in 1967.

“The MoT test is designed to make sure that a vehicle is fit to be on the road and so it needs to be updated to reflect new vehicle technology,” said Alastair Peoples, the Agency’s chief executive.

"We have worked with the industry to prepare them for these changes to make sure that the measures are introduced in the least burdensome way possible.”

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