Why It’s Important To Book Your MOT Test
The MOT test or Ministry of Transport Test is a vital part of owning a vehicle. Unfortunately, not everyone is as vigilant as they should be. With Covid-19, lockdowns and the MOT extension, the news is not good as millions of cars are being driven illegally without an MOT.
In this article, we look at the latest updates on expired MOTs, but before diving into some of these interesting statistics, let’s recap on what an MOT test is, what to do if it has expired and where to find “MOT garages near me”.
What Is An MOT Test?
MOTs are compulsory annual tests for cars older than three years. It checks whether a vehicle is roadworthy and meets certain safety criteria. A DVSA-certified examiner will also test exhaust emissions to make sure it’s within the desired range. That means an MOT check will not only help keep you safe but also minimises the impact on the environment.
It’s only a visual inspection so no repairs are made to your car. At Elite Garages MOT test centres, our examiners will provide you with a detailed report and can help arrange a vehicle service if needed. Remember, you are not allowed to drive your car on a public road without a valid MOT certificate.
If you have a new car, it won’t need an MOT test for some time but make a note for three years after the date of vehicle registration as that will indicate your first MOT due date.
What Does An MOT Test Entail?
Since the Government introduced new measures in 2018, MOTs have become even tougher. At the time, more than a million cars were labelled as ‘dangerous’ by the end of the year. During an MOT, examiners inspect several parts of your car to make sure they meet the minimum DVSA standards.
This includes making sure the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is present and legible, checking that your registration plate (number plate) is secure, legible, and in the correct format. The MOT test also includes checks on the following:
- Lights
- Steering and suspension
- Wipers and washer bottle
- Windscreen
- Horn
- Seatbelts
- Seats
- Fuel system
- Emissions
- Bodywork
- Doors
- Mirrors
- Wheels and tyres
- Brakes
Recommended: ‘How To Pass Your MOT The First Time’
The Current State Of MOTs In The UK
Due to Covid-19, the government gave MOT extensions which helped so many but now some people haven’t had their cars checked. Fact is, there could be as many as two million cars being driven in the UK with expired MOTs.
According to figures from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), “one in five (19.5%) of the vehicles eligible for a six-month MOT extension during the first 2020 lockdown are yet to be assessed”.
A survey from comparison site Gocompare found that 13% of drivers can’t remember when their MOT due date is. They also found that the majority of respondents (58%) are concerned about putting their car through the MOT due to potential coronavirus exposure.
Covid-safe MOTs At Elite Garages
You can’t blame anyone for being apprehensive about getting an MOT due to Covid. The good news is that, despite lifting the lockdown and easing some of the restrictions, all of our vehicle servicing and MOT test centres still have the necessary Covid safety measures in place. Here’s a breakdown of what we’ve done:
- All staff are following good handwashing practices and social distancing
- We have hand sanitiser stations in multiple locations
- Frequent cleaning takes place of all busy areas and surfaces
- Placed signage across all of our facilities encouraging handwashing, sanitising and social distancing
- Where possible, we implement a 2-metre gap for social distancing
- Limited seats in our waiting areas
- All customers and contractors must wear a face covering when inside the premises unless medically exempt
- Staff will wear a face covering when in proximity to anyone not wearing a mask
How To Find Out If Your MOT Has Expired
Contrary to popular belief, there is NO ‘two-week grace period’ for a lapsed MOT certificate. If you are caught driving without a valid MOT, you may be prosecuted unless you can prove you are driving to an MOT test centre. Not only can it result in your insurance being invalid, but you could also receive a £1,000 fine and six to eight points on your licence.
So, to avoid all of that and maximise safety you need to make sure your MOT is up to date. If you don’t know when your MOT expires, you can find out all you need to know on the Government website. It’s easy to forget your MOT date but not if you join the Elite Member’s Club. This entitles you to receive FREE SMS reminders and be among the first to receive special offers or discounts.
Elite Garages MOT Test Centres
Don’t wait until your MOT has expired as you are putting yourself and other road users at risk. If your MOT due date is coming up, book a test at your nearest MOT test centre. It’s the right thing to do as you don’t want to be involved in an accident as your insurance cover may be null and void.
Elite Garages offer a wide range of services and inspections, including a vehicle safety check. Our team of experts are dedicated to providing you with the highest level of service and comprehensive car checks all year round. Below is a list of our MOT test centres:
