How Much Does It Cost to Get an MOT?

Getting an MOT (Ministry of Transport) test is something all car owners in the UK must do every year once their car is over three years old. But how much does it actually cost? Let’s dive into the details and find out everything you need to know about the cost of an MOT.

What is an MOT?

An MOT is a test to make sure your car is safe to drive and doesn’t pollute too much. During the test, a mechanic will check things like:

  • Lights: Are all the lights working?
  • Tires: Are the tires in good shape and have enough tread?
  • Brakes: Do the brakes work properly?
  • Emissions: Is the car not polluting too much?

If your car passes the MOT, you get a certificate that lasts for one year. If it doesn’t pass, you need to fix the problems before you can drive it again.

How Much Does an MOT Cost?

The cost of an MOT can vary, but there are some general guidelines. In the UK, there is a maximum fee that garages can charge for an MOT. As of now, the maximum fee is:

  • Cars: £54.85
  • Motorcycles: £29.65

However, many garages charge less than this maximum fee. On average, you can expect to pay around £30 to £50 for an MOT for a car. It’s a good idea to shop around and check prices at different garages.

What Can Affect the Cost?

There are a few things that can affect how much you pay for an MOT:

  1. Location: Prices can be higher in some areas, like big cities.
  2. Type of Garage: Independent garages might charge less than big chain garages.
  3. Special Offers: Some garages offer discounts or special deals, especially if you get other services done at the same time.

What Happens if My Car Fails the MOT?

If your car fails the MOT, you’ll need to fix the problems before you can drive it again. The cost of these repairs can vary a lot, depending on what needs to be fixed. Here are some examples:

  • Lights: Fixing a broken light can cost around £10 to £20.
  • Tires: New tires can cost between £50 and £100 each.
  • Brakes: Fixing brakes can cost between £100 and £300.

After fixing the problems, you’ll need to get a retest. Some garages offer a free retest within a certain period (like 10 days), while others might charge a small fee.

Learn how to sell a car without an MOT.

How to Save Money on Your MOT

Here are some tips to help you save money on your MOT:

  1. Book Early: Don’t wait until the last minute. Booking early can help you find the best prices and avoid rush fees.
  2. Look for Deals: Some garages offer discounts or package deals, especially if you get your car serviced at the same time.
  3. Do Basic Checks Yourself: Before taking your car for the MOT, do some basic checks yourself. Make sure all the lights work, the tires have enough tread, and there are no obvious problems. This can help avoid some easy-to-fix failures.

What’s Included in the MOT Test?

During the MOT, the mechanic will check many parts of your car. Here’s a list of some of the main things they will look at:

  • Lights: Headlights, brake lights, indicators, and more.
  • Tires: Tread depth and overall condition.
  • Brakes: Effectiveness and condition.
  • Steering and Suspension: Make sure they work properly.
  • Exhaust and Emissions: Check for excessive pollution.
  • Seatbelts: Make sure they work and are in good condition.
  • Bodywork: Look for any sharp edges or dangerous damage.
  • Wipers and Washer Bottle: Make sure they work and have enough fluid.

What If My Car Passes?

If your car passes the MOT, you’ll get a certificate that lasts for one year. This means your car is safe to drive and meets all the required standards. Keep this certificate safe, as you’ll need it for things like getting car insurance and road tax.

How Often Do I Need an MOT?

You need to get an MOT every year once your car is over three years old. If your car is new, you don’t need an MOT for the first three years. After that, it’s once a year.

Why Is the MOT Important?

The MOT is important because it helps keep everyone safe on the roads. It makes sure that cars are in good condition and not polluting too much. Without the MOT, it would be harder to make sure all cars meet safety standards.

Final Thoughts

Getting an MOT is a necessary part of owning a car in the UK. While it can be an extra cost, it helps ensure that your car is safe to drive and meets environmental standards. By shopping around and doing some basic checks yourself, you can save money on your MOT. Remember, the cost of the MOT itself is usually between £30 and £50, but fixing any problems found during the test can add to the overall cost.

So, next time your car’s MOT is due, you’ll know what to expect and how to keep the costs down. Safe driving!