An MOT Retest: 5 Things to Know

 

2.2 million class 3 and 4 vehicles passed their MOT after failing it the first time between 2020 and 2021. This was due to a retest of the MOT. A MOT failure is stressful, but it isn't the end of the world. It's a simple procedure, especially if you keep your vehicle at the same garage that performed the first inspection.

You will fully understand the following after reading this article:

1.      What is a MOT retest?

2.      How much does a retest for a MOT cost?

3.      Where can you go for a retest?

4.      If you don't have a MOT, you'll be fined.

5.      When do I need to renew my MOT?

What is a MOT retest?

An MOT retest is a partial test performed after a failed MOT. It's a simple and inexpensive approach to receive the pass certificate you need without having to go through the entire checklist again.

In most cases, a MOT retest will just look at the sections of your car that the MOTcentre failed the first time.

How much does a MOT retest cost?

The cost of a MOT retest is determined on the circumstances of your second test:

Leave the car with the original garage and they will complete the retest within 10 days.

You will receive a free MOT retest if you leave the vehicle in its current location. The sole cost is the bill for any repairs that your car may require.

Take your car somewhere else and then come back to the original garage within 10 working days

A partial MOT retest will be charged to you. This is equivalent to half of the whole test fee. The maximum MOT fee in the UK is £54.85, therefore a test centre may only charge £27.43.

Many garages, on the other hand, provide discounted MOTs. That implies that if you compare prices before you book MOT online, you can save money on your retest charge.

Take your car somewhere else and return it to the original garage after 10 days.

If you return the vehicle to the test station beyond 10 working days, you will be required to undergo a full retest. This means you'll have to pay the whole amount again because the test centre can't ensure that the other parts are still in the same condition as when you first took the test. To avoid being in this situation, check MOT test failure certificate and ensure it is returned repaired within the 10 working days period.

Where can you go for a MOT retest?

Is it possible to schedule a MOT retest at a different garage? No, your MOT retest must be performed by the same garage that performed the original test. While you can transport your car to another garage for repairs, you will be charged the full amount for the pass certificate.

You should keep your vehicle for repairs at the original garage to take advantage of the reduced or free MOT retest charge. Check MOT status of your vehicle and book your next MOT test with a garage that carries out MOTs, service and repairs.

The MOT retest does not have a formal booking process. The tester will conduct the partial MOT testing after the repairs are completed. This process is significantly easier if you leave your vehicle at the garage for repairs.

If you don’t have a MOT, you’ll be fined

At all times, you must have a valid MOT certificate. A £1,000 charge is imposed if your vehicle does not have a MOT. If your car is declared 'dangerous,' you might face a £2,500 fine, a driving suspension, and 3 penalty points on your licence.

Even though a MOT retest is difficult and awkward, you must complete the procedure. You cannot operate the car unless you have a valid certificate. That's all there is to it.

When Do I Need to Renew My MOT?

Every car registered in the United Kingdom more than three years ago is required to have a MOT once a year. Your expiry date may be found on your previous year's MOT certificate or by entering your registration number into the governments MOThistory check website.

Before this date, you must schedule a MOT test and acquire a pass certificate.

MOT Renewing Procedures

You may schedule a MOT test up to a year ahead of your expiration date. You may even book up to a month in advance, minus a day, to ensure the same expiry date for the next year. This allows you to cope with any issues or failures that the MOT may reveal.