It has now been 6 months since the pandemic first made its way into the UK and the effects are still being seen across the country. For MOT’s that were due from 30th March to 31st July, these were extended for 6 months due to the coronavirus; millions of cars were eligible for this extension. For example, if your MOT was due on 7th May, you would need to ensure your MOT was carried out by 7th November.
Why Does My Car Need a MOT?
The MOT test is a compulsory test for every vehicle that is at least 3 years old. It is designed to promote safety on the road and ensure that all vehicles are in a roadworthy condition. You can be fined up to £1000 if you are found driving a vehicle that does not have a valid MOT.
It is vital that you book in an annual test for your vehicle every year with a reputable garage who will be able to carry out the testing for you. A typical MOT test will take between 45 minutes and an hour. Your test can also be completed up to one month before the expiry of the current certificate which means you have some flexibility for bookings.
What is Involved in a MOT Test?
There are a variety of different checks and tests involved in a MOT. The key elements which will be tested include:
- Lights
- Steering & Suspension
- Wipers
- Windscreen
- Fuel System
- Tyres
- Brakes
- Bodywork
Your test centre will provide you with a report when the test is complete and will make you aware of any advisories which will indicate some potential repairs. However, if your car fails its MOT then you will need to get those elements repaired and take a retest, in order to retain the passed MOT status of your vehicle. Many centres
Predictions for the MOT Surge
With exemptions for MOTs no longer permitted, the surge for the demand in MOTs is starting to creep up on the automotive industry. As the exemptions will start to fade out in the Autumn, we expect this to be the peak time over the next 6 months for MOTs. It has been predicted that the busiest periods will be October and November.
Due to this surge, we would highly recommend that all motorists get their MOT test booked well in advance, to prevent any issues of not being able to book in a slot. You can also use an MOT reminder service which will send you a notification in the run-up to the due date which will help remind you to book it in.
Safety Comes First
Whilst MOT tests have still been carried out during the first stages of the pandemic, it is still essential that all safety precautions are taken. You must not go and take your vehicle for its MOT test if you or someone you live with has coronavirus, and self-isolation periods must be adhered to.
At Freeway we are promoting the safety of all of our staff and customers by taking all provisional measures set out by the government. Staff are wearing masks and regularly sanitising areas throughout the garage, in order to prevent the spread of the virus.
Get Your MOT Booked Today
If your MOT test is coming up or your exemption runs out soon, then now is the perfect time to get yours booked. Over the coming months the demand will start to increase more and more, with local garages getting much busier.
We have a highly trained team of technicians who will be able to carry out the test on your vehicle safely and to a high standard. If you are looking for a reliable garage in Tunbridge Wells, please call us today on 01892 520022 and the team will be happy to help!
Written on 20th August 2020