Book your MOT in advance for a stress-free holiday
As schools close, and families head off on their summer holidays, The Motor Ombudsman is encouraging owners of vehicles aged three years and over in England, Scotland and Wales, to book the MOT test in advance if it is set to expire in the coming weeks, and not to leave it until the last minute. Motorists are able to arrange the annual test of vehicle safety and roadworthiness up to a month (minus a day) before it becomes void, but keep the same renewal date.
Booking an MOT in advance carries a number of key benefits for consumers, namely that it reduces the risk of driving illegally without a valid MOT certificate, which can incur a £1,000 fine, points on their driving licence, and invalidate their insurance in the event of an accident. It will also help you to avoid a last-minute rush, potential delays in their cars being tested, and may offer more availability at MOT stations that fits better with their personal and work commitments. It can give the opportunity to address any necessary repairs identified during the MOT, ensuring a vehicle is safe to drive, and reducing time off the road.
Furthermore, for motorists looking to take their car in for an MOT, a service, or for repairs, there are over 7,500 independent garages and franchise dealer workshops across the country, that are accredited to The Motor Ombudsman’s Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI)-approved Motor Industry Code of Practice for Service and Repair, and are listed on the body’s intuitive online Garage Finder.
