What Lincolnshire's emissions test checks and who needs it

Lincolnshire uses the standard MOT emissions test as part of the annual MOT inspection. The test measures what comes out of your exhaust — specifically nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, and carbon dioxide — to confirm your vehicle meets the legal limits set by the UK government. Every petrol car, diesel car, and hybrid registered in the UK must pass this test to stay roadworthy.

You need an emissions test if your vehicle is over 40 years old (classic cars are exempt), registered in Lincolnshire or anywhere else in the UK, and due for its annual MOT. The test happens automatically as part of the MOT; you do not book a separate appointment for emissions alone.

Vans, motorcycles, and large goods vehicles have their own emissions standards, but the principle is the same — the test is built into their annual safety inspection. Electric vehicles do not have an emissions test because they produce no tailpipe emissions.

Key Takeaways

  • Lincolnshire's emissions test is part of the MOT inspection and checks whether your exhaust meets UK legal limits for nitrogen oxides, particulate matter, and carbon dioxide.
  • Every petrol and diesel vehicle over 40 years old must pass the test annually; classic cars registered before 1940 are exempt.
  • You book an MOT at an authorised testing station in Lincolnshire, and the emissions test happens as part of that same appointment — no separate booking needed.
  • If your vehicle fails the emissions test, you have 10 working days to fix the problem and retest at no extra charge at the same station.
  • Common reasons for failure include a faulty oxygen sensor, a blocked particulate filter, or an engine management light that is on.

Where to book an emissions test in Lincolnshire

You book your emissions test by booking an MOT at an authorised testing station. The Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) maintains a searchable list of all approved MOT stations across Lincolnshire on their website — you can filter by location, opening hours, and whether they test your vehicle type.

Most independent garages, franchised dealerships, and large repair chains in Lincolnshire are authorised to carry out MOT tests and emissions checks. Call ahead to confirm they have availability and can test your vehicle type (some smaller stations may not test HGVs or certain specialist vehicles). Many stations now let you book online through their own websites or through third-party booking platforms.

The test itself takes around 45 minutes to an hour as part of the full MOT. Bring your V5C registration document and proof of insurance, though the station will check your insurance status on the DVLA database.

What happens during the emissions test

The tester connects a probe to your exhaust pipe and measures the gases coming out while the engine runs at idle and at a higher speed. For petrol cars, the test measures carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons. For diesel cars, it measures nitrogen oxides and particulate matter — the soot that diesel engines produce. The machine records the readings and compares them to the legal limits for your vehicle's age and fuel type.

The whole process takes a few minutes. You will sit in the car while the tester operates the equipment from outside. If your vehicle passes, the result is recorded on your MOT certificate when ready. If it fails, the tester will tell you which pollutant exceeded the limit and by how much.

A fail does not mean you have broken the law yet — you have 10 working days to repair the problem and return to the same station for a free retest. During those 10 days, you can still drive the vehicle, but you must not use it after the important date without passing the test.

Common reasons for emissions test failure in Lincolnshire

A faulty oxygen sensor is the most common cause of failure in both petrol and diesel cars. This sensor tells the engine how much fuel to burn; when it fails, the engine runs too rich (too much fuel) and produces excess carbon monoxide or hydrocarbons. Replacement typically costs between £150 and £400 depending on the vehicle.

In diesel cars, a blocked diesel particulate filter (DPF) is the second most common reason. The DPF traps soot; if it becomes clogged, particulate matter readings spike. A blocked DPF can sometimes be cleared by a specialist garage using a forced regeneration process (£100 to £300), or it may need replacement (£400 to £1,500). Driving at motorway speeds regularly can help prevent blockages.

An engine management light that is on will cause an automatic fail, even if the emissions readings are within limits. This light indicates a fault code stored in the engine computer. A garage can read the code with a diagnostic scanner (usually £50 to £100) and repair the underlying problem — often a faulty sensor, loose fuel cap, or catalytic converter issue.

A worn catalytic converter, a leaking exhaust, or old spark plugs can also push readings over the limit. If you know your vehicle is close to failing, a pre-MOT service that includes new spark plugs and an exhaust check may save you a retest fee.

Cost and timing of emissions tests in Lincolnshire

The emissions test is not charged separately — it is included in the MOT fee. An MOT costs £54.50 for a car, £47.50 for a motorcycle, and £58.50 for a van or small HGV. These are the maximum fees set by the DVSA; some stations charge less.

If you fail and need a retest within 10 working days, the retest is free at the same station. If you wait longer than 10 days, you must pay the full MOT fee again.

Repairs after a failure vary widely. A sensor replacement might cost £150 to £400. A DPF clean or replacement could be £100 to £1,500. An engine diagnostic to identify the fault costs £50 to £150. Budget for the diagnostic first if you are unsure what caused the failure.

What to do if your vehicle fails the emissions test

Ask the tester for a printed fail sheet that shows which pollutant exceeded the limit and by how much. This information helps a mechanic diagnose the problem. Do not assume you know the cause — a high carbon monoxide reading could be a sensor, a fuel leak, or a timing issue, and guessing wrong wastes money.

Take the vehicle to a garage and show them the fail sheet. A diagnostic scan (£50 to £100) will identify the fault code. Once you know the problem, get a quote for the repair before committing. Some repairs are straightforward; others may require specialist equipment or parts that take time to source.

Return to the same testing station for your retest within 10 working days. Bring the fail sheet with you. The retest is free, and you do not need to book a new appointment — most stations will fit you in quickly. Once you pass, your MOT certificate is issued and valid for 12 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive my car after it fails the emissions test?

Yes, for 10 working days after the fail. You can drive to a garage for repairs and to the testing station for a retest. After 10 working days, you cannot drive the vehicle unless it has passed the test, because it is no longer roadworthy.

What is the difference between a petrol and diesel emissions test?

Petrol cars are tested for carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons. Diesel cars are tested for nitrogen oxides and particulate matter. The legal limits are different for each fuel type because diesel and petrol engines produce different pollutants. A diesel car cannot fail a petrol test because the equipment measures different things.

Do I need an emissions test if my car is electric?

No. Electric vehicles do not have an emissions test because they produce no tailpipe emissions. They still need an MOT from three years old, but the test covers brakes, lights, and structure only.

How often do I need an emissions test?

Once a year, as part of your annual MOT. Your MOT is due on the same date each year — check your V5C registration document or the DVSA website to find your due date. You can book up to one month early without losing a month of validity.

What happens if I ignore a failed emissions test?

After 10 working days, your vehicle is no longer roadworthy and you cannot legally drive it on a public road. Driving an unroadworthy vehicle can result in a fine of up to £1,000. Your insurance may also be invalid if you drive an unroadworthy car.