MOT test is a crucial annual inspection that ensures your car is safe and fit to drive on the road. Most vehicles need this test once they reach a certain age, but how do you know when it’s time for your car to undergo an MOT?
When Does Your Car Need an MOT?
In the UK, your car needs an MOT once it turns three years old.
The age of the car is based on when it was first registered, not when you bought it.
For example, if your car was first registered in January 2022, it will need its first MOT test in January 2025, regardless of when you purchased it.
If you live in Northern Ireland, there’s a small difference: cars there require their first MOT at four years old instead of three.
A notable exception is vintage cars. If your car is over 40 years old and has not been significantly modified, it doesn’t require an MOT. As long as your classic car remains in its original condition, it’s exempt from the test.
Where Can You Get an MOT Test?
There are over 21,000 approved MOT centres across the UK, so you’re likely to find one close to you. However, not all garages are authorized to perform MOT tests, so it’s important to choose a certified centre. You can check for approved centres on the government’s website.
Both small local garages and large national chains can carry out MOT tests. Many people prefer to book their MOT test ahead of time, especially if their current certificate is about to expire. MOT centres can get busy, so it’s a good idea to secure your appointment in advance to avoid any last-minute rush.
MOT Test Costs
The cost of an MOT test is regulated by the government.
The maximum fee for a car test is £54.85, and for a motorbike, it’s £29.65.
Some garages might charge less than the maximum to attract customers. Additionally, certain local councils run public MOT test centres, which focus exclusively on testing vehicles and don’t offer repair services. These centres can be considered impartial because they don’t carry out any repairs themselves.
If your car fails the MOT test, you’ll need to have the required repairs completed. You can either return to the same garage or take your car to another one of your choice.
After repairs are done, your car will need to be retested.
If you have the repairs done at the same garage, the retest may be free. However, if you go to a different garage for repairs, the retest will be cheaper than having to pay for a full MOT again.
What Happens If Your Car Fails the MOT?
If your car passes the MOT, you can collect your certificate and keep it safe until next year. However, if your car fails the test, you’ll need to take immediate action.
Failures are divided into two categories: “dangerous” and “major” faults.
Dangerous faults are severe issues that make your car unsafe to drive. If your car has a dangerous fault, you cannot drive it away from the test centre. You’ll either need to have the garage repair the issue or arrange for your car to be towed to another location for repairs. Examples of dangerous faults include broken brake lights, leaking fluids, or missing wheel nuts.
Major faults are serious but may not make your car immediately unsafe to drive. You can decide whether to have the repairs done at the same garage or take it elsewhere for the work. Some common major faults include faulty exhaust systems, broken lights, or issues with the catalytic converter.
If your car fails due to a major fault, the garage will explain what needs to be fixed.
Once the repairs are completed, you can bring your car back for a retest.
If the repairs were done at the same garage, the retest is free. If the repairs were done elsewhere, the retest will cost less than a full MOT.
MOT tests are an essential part of maintaining a safe and roadworthy vehicle. Remember, cars need an MOT test every year once they turn three (or four in Northern Ireland). It’s best to book your test in advance to avoid any delays, and always check the status of your MOT on the DVLA website. If your car fails, take action immediately, address the issues, and follow the steps for retesting. By staying on top of your MOT, you’ll ensure your car remains safe and ready to drive for another year.