The MOT test is yearly examination in the UK that assesses the safety, roadworthiness and exhaust emissions of most vehicles aged three years old or older. An MOT certificate confirms that at the time of the test, your car met the minimum road safety and environmental standards required by law. If your MOT certificate has expired, you can only drive it directly to a garage for an MOT retest or a repair.
My car has failed its MOT test. Can I continue to drive it?
When a vehicle doesn’t pass its MOT test, it is considered unfit for road use and driving it on public roads is prohibited. There are exceptions, such as driving it to a garage for repairs. Operating a vehicle without a valid MOT certificate is unlawful and can lead to penalties, driving disqualifications and voided insurance coverage. However, you will get ten days to drive to have repairs done and get a re-test to ensure your vehicle is safe.
What happens if I drive my vehicle after my MOT expires?
If you drive your vehicle after its MOT has expired, you may be subject to legal consequences and potential risks, such as:
- Legal consequences: Operating a vehicle on public roads without a valid MOT certificate is illegal. If caught driving without a valid MOT, you could face fines and penalty points on your driving record.
- Revoked insurance: Driving without a valid MOT can also invalidate insurance. If you are involved in an accident, your insurance provider may refuse to cover the damages, leaving you liable for repair costs and potential legal consequences.
- Potential Vehicle Impoundment: In some cases, authorities may impound your vehicle if it’s found to be in a dangerous condition due to a lack of a valid MOT.
If your vehicle has both failed its MOT and the most recent certificate has expired, what next?
Repair & re-examine your vehicle:
If the MOT test centre provides repair services, you may choose to leave your vehicle with them for necessary repairs before a re-test. As long as the repairs are completed within 10 working days of the initial MOT failure, the vehicle can perform a “partial re-test” focusing only on the issue identified in the original test.
Some test centres offer a free re-test if you leave your vehicle with them. Alternatively, if your car failed its MOT without any `dangerous` faults, you have the option to have it repaired at another garage and then return it to the original test centre for a partial re-test, possibly at a reduced fee.
If you bring your car back to the test centre more than 10 working days after the initial failed MOT, you’ll be required to pay the full MOT test fee.
Selling or disposing of your MOT failed vehicle:
If you find that fixing the issues highlighted in your failed MOT is cost-prohibitive, selling or even scrapping your car can help you raise funds for a more reliable vehicle. It’s worth noting that most dealerships won’t purchase cars that have failed their MOT. Selling your car privately can be challenging, but by staying persistent, you may find a willing buyer. Alternatively, you can sell your car to a car-buying service.
You also have the option to scrap your car at a scrapyard or an Authorized Treatment Facility (ATF). Please be aware that a vehicle without a valid MOT cannot be driven, so transportation arrangements will need to be made by you or the buyer at the time of sale.
What do I need to do to have my car re-tested?
To have your car re-tested after it has failed its MOT test, you’ll need to follow some steps:
- Understand and address the failures.
- Choose a testing centre.
- Book an appointment.
- Bring necessary documentation.
- Get the vehicle reinspected and tested.
So, to avoid any consequences, you need to get services for repair.
One of the most straightforward, highly efficient and cost-effective methods to ensure your car’s longevity, particularly its engine, is to replace both oil and oil filters regularly. Oil plays a vital role as the lifeblood of your engine. It reduces friction and minimises wear and tear. Additionally, engine oil serves to dampen the impact and noise produced by moving parts.
Can I appeal an MTO failure?
Yes, you have the right to appeal an MTO test failure if you believe your vehicle was incorrectly assessed or you disagree with the results. Here are the steps involved in appealing an MTO failure:
Discuss the Testing Centre: Before initiating a formal appeal, discussing your concerns with the testing centre that conducted the MOT is a good idea.
Request a Reinspection: It involves having a different MOT tester at the same testing centre review your vehicle’s results. It’s essential to bring any evidence or documentation that supports your case.
Contact the relevant authority: If you believe your vehicle was unfairly failed and the reinspection does not change the outcome, you can contact the relevant authority responsible for MOT testing in your country.
Formal Appeal Process: In some cases, you may need to go through a formal appeal process, which could involve completing specific forms and providing evidence to support your case. The appeal process can vary from country to country, so it is essential to follow the guidelines the relevant authority provides.
Independent Assessment: In certain situations, you may have the option to request an independent assessment of your vehicle’s condition.
Decision and Outcome: A decision will be made once your appeal is reviewed. If the appeal is successful, your vehicle will pass the MOT, and you’ll receive a valid certificate.
Whether your vehicle is due for its annual MOT test or has experienced a failure necessitating repairs, do not hesitate to contact the skilled professionals at GMP Autos.
You can schedule an appointment with us or connect to gather additional information. We are here to prioritise your safety and address your needs promptly.
