If your vehicle was built with a CAT then it will need one to pass an MOT. Until March 31st it will be an advisory but after that anyone who has fitted a de-CAT will need to remove it and put a CAT back on ... that's what I understand anyway.
I done my refresher a few weeks back, diesels dont need a cat anyway (as has been mentioned multiple times) so its totally irrelevant.
did say that after market HID lights fitted to cars will have to have a washer system and system which allows you to move them up and down, most cars do these days.
This isnt strictly true. VOSA has already said that as there is no 100% way of telling wether they are standard or aftermarket and there is no legal issue with retro fitting these ligths so its a case of if washers and self levelers are fitted then they are tested, if there not fitted then its not tested.
Another piece of information that is useful for alot of you guys is the fact that if a vehicle is modified for purpose (i.e. rally cars, race cars, off roaders e.t.c) then you dont need to have everything fitted on the vehicle i.e. airbags can be removed, SRS systems can be deactivated and so on. This doesnt apply to just 'modified' vehicles that have had an exhaust and some plastic crap on it but modified for specific reasons.
Im sure you all know the rest by now but quick recap, the following will be coming in as well:
Dust covers - no splits on ball joint covers e.t.c.
Warning lights - ALL warning lights (SRS/ABS/TCS e.t.c.) now come into it, this doesnt include management light, does include brake fluid light.
Tow Bars - Been in a year now but towbars MUST be secure and solid.
Tow electrics - all new style 13 pin sockets tested, older 7 pins are NOT tested.
Speedo - Must light up with lights and all warning symbols working, not tested for accuracy.
Fuel pipes - Saftey and condition now included (was previously leaks only)
Rear doors - must work from outside (inside not tested due to child locks)
Steering lock - All vehicles must have a working steering lock, external locks not a pass.
Wiring - ALL wiring (inside or out) must be safe and secured (includes your winch and lights wiring). Battery must be secure.
I believe this is all the changes, there may be a few bits I have missed but this is the basics. These will all come in from april this year, until then they are advisories only.
Few bits of info I shall add here though. if your vehicle has 7 seats it isnt classed as a passanger car, this changes some parts of the test (cat fitted e.t.c). Brake imbalance has now be upped from 25% to 30%. Tyre pressure moniters will be tested on all cars from 01/01/2012 (so 3 years yet) and Pre 60's vehicles are looking (not 100% confirmed) to be MOT free.
Hope this helps answer any questions...