If your car fails its MOT (Ministry of Transport test), it can be quite stressful, especially if you rely on your vehicle on a daily basis. However, it is important to remain calm and take the necessary steps to rectify any issues. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on what to do if your car fails its MOT.
Understand the Reasons for Failure
The first step is to understand the reasons why your car has failed its MOT. The garage that carried out the test will provide you with a list of the reasons for the failure. It is important to go through this list carefully and understand what needs to be done to rectify the issues.
Get a Repair Quote
Once you understand the reasons for the failure, the next step is to get a repair quote. It is important to get quotes from different garages to ensure that you are getting a fair price. You can also ask for recommendations from friends and family for reliable and trustworthy mechanics.
Make the Necessary Repairs
Once you have received a quote and have decided on a mechanic, it is time to get the necessary repairs done. Make sure that you get a detailed breakdown of the work that has been carried out and keep a copy of the receipt. This will be useful for your next MOT test.
Book a Retest
Once the repairs have been made, you can book a retest. It is important to do this as soon as possible to avoid any delays. You can either book the retest with the same garage that carried out the initial test or with a different garage.
Understand the Timeframe
It is important to understand the timeframe for getting the repairs done and booking a retest. You will usually have a maximum of 10 working days to get the repairs done and book a retest. If you fail to do so, you will have to pay for a full MOT test again.
Appeal the Decision
If you believe that your car has been unfairly failed, you can appeal the decision. This will involve filling out a form and providing evidence to support your case. The form and evidence will then be reviewed by a government-appointed appeals officer.
Keep Your Car Well-Maintained
To avoid failing your MOT in the future, it is important to keep your car well-maintained. This includes regular servicing, checking tyre pressure and tread depth, and ensuring that all lights and indicators are working properly. Regular maintenance can also prevent costly repairs in the long run.
Conclusion
Failing your MOT can be a stressful experience, but it is important to remain calm and take the necessary steps to rectify any issues. Understanding the reasons for failure, getting a repair quote, making the necessary repairs, booking a retest, appealing the decision if necessary, and keeping your car well-maintained can all help to ensure a successful MOT test.
FAQs
- Can I drive my car if it fails its MOT?
No, it is illegal to drive a car that has failed its MOT, unless you are driving it to a garage for repairs or to a pre-booked MOT appointment.
- Can I get a free retest if my car fails its MOT?
If you take your car for repairs and a retest within 10 working days of the initial test, you will usually only have to pay for the repairs and not for the full MOT test again.
- What happens if I don’t get the necessary repairs done within 10 working days?
If you fail to get the necessary repairs done and book a retest within 10 working days, you will have to pay for a full MOT test again.
- How long does an MOT test take?
An MOT test usually takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- What happens if I appeal the decision and lose?
If you appeal the decision and lose, you will have to pay for a full MOT test again.