About MoTs

What If My Car Fails Its MoT?

If your vehicle fails its MoT test on more serious or expensive items, we’ll let you immediately with a clear breakdown of what is required and an estimate of costs. There is no pressure to authorise us to repair your car, although we’d be delighted to repair it it to our exacting standards to enable it to then pass an MoT retest. You can leave your car with us for up to 10 days for repairs, following which we will do a partial retest which will not incur a further fee.

You are not allowed to drive a vehicle without a valid MoT unless you are taking it have minor defects repaired or for a pre-arranged MoT test appointment. Driving without a valid MoT test certificate carries a fine of up to £2,500 and three penalty points. If you feel that your car should have passed its MoT talk to us in the first instant but you can also complain to the Driver & Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).

Does My Car Need An MoT?

Most cars, vans & bikes need an MoT certificate when they reach three years old & then every year thereafter. Certain vehicles such as ambulances, taxis & minibuses need an MoT after their first year. Some people when buying a used car like to have it put through an MoT even if it has a few months left, just to ensure they’re buying a sound vehicle.

What Does The MoT Test Check?

In short, the important, safety related items on your car, such as the steering, suspension, electrics, tyres, exhaust, emissions, lights, brakes, body structure, seat belts, etc. A full list can be found here. It does not check the condition of the engine, clutch or gearbox. An MoT is only proof of roadworthiness at the time of the MoT, so for example six month later sound tyres could have worn down below the legal limit.

When Do I Get My Certificate?

We’ll give you your certificate once the vehicle has passed its MoT & it is also recorded on the Government’s MoT database.