Calls for MPs to abandon recent MOT proposals have been stepped up after a recent consumer survey uncovered worrying variations in standard and repeated oversights from acting garages.
Not every garage or mechanics is qualified to carry out MOT testing and standards are overseen by the Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA); however the recent survey reveals that some garages aren’t reaching the standards we’ve come to expect.
Discussions have been ongoing in parliament amidst plans to revolutionise MOT scheduling and how the MOT certificate looks.
The idea was to reduce the frequency of MOT tests from the current level of once a year after the first three years of ownership in light of technological advancements in the industry and to reduce costs for UK motorists; however safety groups riled against the proposals.
That means we’re left in a state of flux: Are MOTs changing? How often do we need to get an MOT? How do I know I’m getting the proper level of service?
They’re all questions we try to answer in out MOT FAQ.
First things first, what is an MOT?
An MOT is a legal requirement for any car owner in the UK.
It’s a check on your car which declares that your car is safe and roadworthy but it is not a guarantee of its life or even for the entirety of the certificate itself. Instead, it is time specific.
What does MOT stand for?
MOT literally stands for Ministry of Transport and it serves as a confirmation that your car is safe to use on the road.
MOT testing and standards are not overseen by the MOT however but the VOSA who, in theory, make sure that those MOT approved mechanics test your car thoroughly, honestly and to a minimum standard.
It’s a legal requirement and therefore illegal not to have a valid MOT while your car is on the road.
So how often do I need to get an MOT?
Despite discussions and debate raging on about MOTs and potential changes to their scheduling, it’s a case of as you were.
That means every car needs to take its first MOT three years after it was first registered and then once a year thereafter.
So if you buy your car from new and you’re its first registered owner, it’s pretty straightforward.
However if your car is used you’ll need to know when it was first registered and then work from that date rather than from when you bought it.
Are they changing?
Despite all the discussions, proposals and arguments surrounding MOTs, it looks like they’re set to remain unchanged.
Philip Hammond introduced MOT discussions when he proposed a reduction in the frequency of testing which would see cars tested after four years, then every other year for the next six years before reverting to annual checks thereafter.
The main idea behind the proposals was to reduce financial impact of car ownership on UK motorists and based on the fact that MOT tests have been in place for around 50 years – making it slightly outdated.
Hammond’s ideas provoked some aggressive responses from safety groups who quoted the potential life threatening impacts of more lax testing while garages reacted badly based on potential loss of income.
So they’re here to stay?
MOTs will definitely remain in place however they could still change from their current format.
As well as proposals to change the frequency of testing – which are still being considered – there are also plans to change the certificate itself to combat clocking.
However for the time being MOTs look like they will remain the same.
What is checked?
Generally, everything on your car is checked to make sure that it works in the correct manner and up to minimum standards set out by VOSA.
Remember though, these checks make sure that your car is safe and road worthy rather than guaranteeing optimum performance and longevity.
Around 17 items are checked including the obvious like the engine, the vehicle structure, the exhaust system and the fuel system. Then there are more basic things like lights, seatbelts, doors and the horn.
Collectively the MOT checks all the vital parts of your vehicle that will affect your road use as well as others.
To see a complete list, see our MOT buyers guide .
Where can I get it done?
Not all garages can carry out MOT tests however there are 19,000 garages authorised by VOSA to carry out the checks.
To be eligible to carry out MOTs, garages must have mechanics of relevant experience that also carry a certificate proving they are capable enough to perform the check.
For motorists the easiest way to detect an MOT garage is with three blue triangle logos which should be seen.
Although there are other giveaway signs that can help you identify credible garages and mechanics, as revealed in our guide: How to spot a cowboy mechanic.
How can I be sure I’m getting a good and proper service?
There are a number of services and schemes which can help you find a good, competent garage.
The most notable is the Good Garage Scheme which is an independent scheme used to reassure customers that they are receiving a proper service from their garage.
For a garage to be accredited by the good garage scheme it must first live up to a code of conduct as set out by Good Garages as well as an industry standard checklist that their work must meet.
Those garages involved must also agree work with the customer before it is carried out, supply a feedback card which is then sent to the Good Garage scheme. They are also subjected to regular mystery shoppers to make sure they continue to meet the high standards.
700 garages are signed up to the scheme while a number of others are in place too – helping you pick a trustworthy garage.
Other schemes: MotorCodes, Bosch and the Automotive Technician Accreditation (ATA).
How much does it cost?
MOT costs vary depending on the size of your vehicle and depending on the garage however generally for cars up to eight seats, an MOT will cost less than £55.
It’s important to remember however that if any repairs need to be carried out on your car, they’ll add to the cost rather than be covered by it.
To see a full list of MOT costs, follow the link.