What's the difference between an MOT and a service?

An MOT and a car service are not the same. The crucial difference is that an MOT tests that a vehicle meets legal standards, whilst a service tests the mechanical condition of a car. You cannot fail a car service, whereas you can fail an MOT, and you are not able to drive a car that has an invalid MOT certificate.You're not bound by law to service your car every year, but servicing your car every year is important, and your car manufacturer will undoubtedly recommend you do so. Where an MOT will check that your car is safe to drive and meets environmental standards, a car service will check the mechanical condition of your car against recommendations from the manufacturer and industry standards.

Most vehicles are due their first MOT on the third anniversary of their first registration. For example, if your car was first registered on 1st March 2022 then its first MOT will be due on 1st March 2025. Another thing to be aware of is that your MOT will also run from this new date, not from when the previous one expired. You can avoid this and actually have a 13-month MOT by having your test done up to one month and one day before your current MOT expires. For example, if your current MOT expires on 4th May, you can have your MOT test done as early as the 5th April and enjoy an MOT that’s valid for over a year.To check the MOT and Tax on your car, visit the Government website to check your MOT status. Simply, enter your car registration, and it will advise on your Tax and MOT status.

What happens if my car fails its MOT?

Your car will fail an MOT test if it records a major or dangerous fault. A recording of a minor fault will not cause your car to fail its MOT test. If your car fails an MOT check, the faults will need to be repaired before your car can be retested.If your car fails its MOT on a dangerous fault, you might not be allowed to drive it away until the fault has been repaired. This is why it’s important to take your car to a trusted MOT testing station such as our own.It is important to get your MOT booking secured in enough time prior to its due date, just in case you or your garage need time to fix any issues before your final MOT due date.

Can you drive without an MOT?

You are only permitted to drive your vehicle after the MOT has expired if you've scheduled an MOT test and are travelling to the test centre. You must be prepared to provide proof that you have an appointment with a MOT centre if you are stopped en route.You can only drive your vehicle if the previous year's MOT is still valid after it fails a MOT; otherwise, you are not allowed to drive it.

Do electric vehicles need an MOT?

Electric and hybrid vehicles that are three years old or older must still have a current MOT certificate, just like cars with petrol and diesel engines. The primary distinction is that since emissions testing is not necessary for electric vehicles, it is not included in the MOT test. You can be assured that all Stoneacre MOT centres are equipped and trained to complete MOT testing for hybrid and electric vehicles.

Could the annual MOT be scrapped?

To assist with the cost of living crisis, it was rumoured, back in April 2022, that the Government had plans to change the annual car MOT check to be carried out every two years instead. However, nothing was ever confirmed, therefore it is still a legal requirement to MOT your car each year.

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Stoneacre Car MOT Testing

Book an MOT Test Online Today

Is your car MOT due? Book online today at your local Stoneacre MOT test centre

Hassle-Free Vehicle MOT Testing with Stoneacre

We understand that MOT tests can be a hassle, so we've designed our service to give you peace of mind, convenience, and complete transparency.

Convenient and Stress-Free: We make the process quick, simple, and completely painless for you.

Expert Safety Checks: Our fully qualified vehicle technicians use cutting-edge diagnostic equipment to thoroughly inspect your vehicle, ensuring your safety is our top priority.

Nationwide Accessibility: With over 50 DVSA-approved garages across England and Wales, we're always close by when you need us.

Transparent Communication: We'll keep you fully informed about your vehicle's condition. You'll receive a detailed report of our findings and any recommended work.

It's easy to make an online MOT booking - Simply, find your nearest Stoneacre MOT centre give us a call or book an MOT online using the form above.