MOTs & Servicing: Navigating Your Car During Lockdown

The Prime Minister’s announcement of a third national lockdown has once again shifted our focus to the overriding imperative: to stay at home. Private car use is heavily discouraged unless absolutely necessary, primarily for commuting to work when remote work isn't feasible, or for acquiring essential provisions like food. This immediate advice understandably raises a critical question for many vehicle owners across the UK: given the reduced travel, should I still be concerned about my car's MOT test or its routine service?

While daily commutes might be a distant memory for some, and the open road seems a luxury rather than a necessity, for many, particularly our invaluable key workers, a car remains an indispensable tool. It’s the lifeline that gets them to work, or ensures their families have access to vital supplies. Understanding the government's latest guidance on vehicle maintenance and roadworthiness during these unprecedented times is crucial for both compliance and safety. Here, we delve into the details provided by the Department for Transport (DfT) and offer practical advice to help you manage your vehicle, even when it’s spending more time parked than in motion.

The Current Lockdown Landscape for Motorists

The latest lockdown measures are designed to significantly limit our movements, with a clear message to stay local and avoid unnecessary travel. The list of legitimate reasons to leave your home and immediate area is specific, encompassing work (where you cannot reasonably work from home), accessing education, fulfilling caring responsibilities, visiting those within your support or childcare bubble, attending hospital, GP, or other medical appointments, purchasing essential goods or services, and engaging in outdoor exercise. Veterinary appointments for pets are also permitted. While these reasons allow for short-distance travel when necessary, the overarching principle is to minimise journeys.

In this context, owning a car has, for many, reverted to being a luxury. However, as highlighted, for a significant portion of the population, including the dedicated key workers who keep our country running, a car is not just a convenience but a vital necessity. Whether it’s ensuring they can reach their workplaces safely or enabling them to buy groceries for their household, the car plays a critical role. This duality – a luxury for some, an essential for others – underscores the importance of understanding the regulations surrounding vehicle maintenance, especially when the vehicle is needed.

MOTs: A Non-Negotiable Requirement

Perhaps the most pressing question for many drivers is regarding their vehicle's MOT. During previous lockdowns, there were temporary exemptions, leading to widespread confusion. However, the guidance for this current lockdown is unequivocally clear: there is no MOT exemption. If your car's MOT has already expired, or is due to expire soon, it will need to pass a new test if you intend to use it on public roads. The Department for Transport (DfT) has explicitly stated that it is lawful to leave your home to get an MOT test. This means that even if you are otherwise not using your car during the latest lockdown, you must ensure its roadworthiness and that its MOT certificate is valid before the old one expires.

This critical requirement applies universally to all cars, vans, and motorcycles. Driving a vehicle without a valid MOT certificate, unless travelling to a pre-booked MOT test, is illegal and can result in significant fines and points on your licence. Garages and MOT testing centres are permitted to remain open for essential repair work and, of course, for carrying out MOT tests. They are expected to adhere strictly to Covid-19 guidelines to ensure the safety of both staff and customers. Therefore, booking your MOT and attending the appointment is not only permissible but a legal necessity if your vehicle is to remain road legal.

Servicing Your Vehicle: Why It's Still Crucial

While the legal obligation for an MOT is paramount, the importance of regular vehicle servicing should not be overlooked, even if your car is being used less frequently. Garages are open for "essential repair work," which implicitly includes routine servicing, as preventative maintenance often prevents more significant, and expensive, issues down the line. Here’s why servicing remains crucial:

• Long-Term Health: Regular servicing maintains the overall health and longevity of your vehicle. Components like oil filters, air filters, and spark plugs degrade over time, regardless of mileage, and need periodic replacement.
• Safety: A well-maintained car is a safer car. Servicing checks critical safety components such as brakes, tyres, steering, and suspension, ensuring they are in optimal condition for when the car is needed.
• Efficiency: Regular servicing can improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, saving you money in the long run and being kinder to the environment.
• Resale Value: A full service history is a significant asset when it comes to selling your car, demonstrating that it has been well-cared for.
• Avoiding Breakdowns: Even if you’re driving less, a sudden, essential journey could be jeopardised by an unexpected breakdown. Servicing helps identify and rectify potential problems before they leave you stranded.

Given that garages are open and adhering to safety protocols, scheduling a service, especially if it’s due, is a sensible decision that protects your investment and ensures your car is ready for any essential journey.

Navigating Car-Related Services During Lockdown

The government's advice clarifies which car-related services are permitted to operate during the lockdown, provided they meet Covid-19 guidelines. Understanding this list can help you plan your vehicle’s maintenance and essential needs:

• Vehicle Repair and MOT Services: These are explicitly allowed to remain open. This includes independent garages, main dealer service centres, and dedicated MOT testing stations.
• Fuel Stations: Essential for any necessary travel, fuel stations are permitted to operate as usual.
• Automatic Car Washes: These are allowed to remain open, offering a contact-free way to keep your vehicle clean.
• Taxi and Vehicle Hire Businesses: These can continue to operate, supporting essential travel needs.
• Car Showrooms: Unlike previous relaxations, car showrooms have had to close their physical premises. While online sales and click-and-collect options might be available from some dealers, direct visits are not permitted.

When utilising any of these services, remember to adhere to social distancing rules, wear a face covering where required, and follow any specific instructions provided by the business to ensure everyone's safety.

Comparative Overview of Car Services in Lockdown

Practical Tips for Car Maintenance During Reduced Use

With many cars being used less frequently, a different set of maintenance considerations comes into play. Extended periods of inactivity can sometimes lead to issues that wouldn't typically arise with regular use. Here are some practical tips to keep your car in top condition:

• Battery Health: This is arguably the most common issue for cars sitting idle. Batteries naturally discharge over time. If your car is parked for more than a week or two, consider investing in a trickle charger or battery maintainer. Alternatively, start your engine once a week and let it run for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the alternator to recharge the battery. Do this in a well-ventilated area.
• Tyre Care: When a car sits for an extended period, the weight of the vehicle can cause flat spots on the tyres, which can lead to vibrations and premature wear once you start driving again. Ensure your tyres are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure (check your owner’s manual or fuel flap). If possible, move your car a short distance every week or two to rotate the contact patch.
• Fluid Levels: Regularly check your engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windscreen washer fluid. Even if the car isn't being driven, fluid levels can sometimes drop, or fluids can degrade.
• Brake Condition: Brakes can seize or corrode, especially the brake discs, if a car is left stationary for too long, particularly in damp conditions. When you do drive, apply the brakes gently a few times to help clean off any surface rust.
• Keep it Clean: If your car is parked outdoors, regular washing can prevent the build-up of dirt, bird droppings, and tree sap, which can damage paintwork. A clean car is also less inviting to pests.
• Fuel Tank: It’s often recommended to keep your fuel tank at least half full. A fuller tank reduces the amount of air inside, which can minimise condensation and prevent moisture build-up in the fuel system.
• Security: Even if your car isn't being used, ensure it's securely locked, and any valuables are removed from sight. Consider additional security measures if you have them.

Your Questions Answered: FAQs

We understand that navigating car ownership during a lockdown can bring up several questions. Here are answers to some common concerns:

Q: Can I be fined for driving without a valid MOT during lockdown?
A: Yes, absolutely. There is no MOT exemption in this lockdown. Driving a vehicle without a valid MOT, unless travelling directly to a pre-booked MOT test, is illegal and can lead to a fine of up to £1,000, and potentially points on your licence. Ensure your MOT is valid if you plan to use your car.

Q: Is it safe to visit a garage for an MOT or service during lockdown?
A: Garages are permitted to remain open and are expected to follow strict Covid-19 safety guidelines. This includes social distancing, enhanced cleaning, and often contactless drop-off and collection procedures. It is considered safe to visit if these measures are in place. If you have any concerns, contact the garage beforehand to discuss their specific protocols.

Q: What if my car breaks down during an essential journey? Are recovery services operating?
A: Yes, breakdown recovery services are considered essential and are operating as usual. Garages are also open for essential repair work. If you break down, contact your recovery provider as normal, and they will be able to assist.

Q: My car is rarely used; do I still need to get it serviced?
A: While the MOT is a legal requirement, servicing is highly recommended even for vehicles with low mileage. Fluids degrade, and components can seize or corrode over time, regardless of how much the car is driven. Preventative maintenance can save you from more costly repairs down the line and ensures your vehicle is reliable when you do need it.

Q: Can I buy a new car during lockdown?
A: Physical car showrooms are currently closed to the public. However, many dealerships are offering online sales, virtual appointments, and click-and-collect or home delivery options for new and used vehicles. You would need to check with individual dealerships for their specific services.

Q: What if I am self-isolating when my MOT or service is due?
A: If you are self-isolating, you must not leave your home, even for an MOT or service. You should contact your garage immediately to explain your situation and reschedule your appointment. Driving a car with an expired MOT is illegal, so if your MOT expires while you are isolating, you must not use the vehicle until it has been tested and passed.

Conclusion

In summary, despite the current national lockdown and the encouragement to stay at home, the legal obligations surrounding your vehicle’s roadworthiness remain firmly in place. There is no MOT exemption, and ensuring your car has a valid MOT certificate is a legal requirement for any vehicle used on public roads. Similarly, while not legally mandated, routine servicing continues to be a vital aspect of car ownership, safeguarding your vehicle's health, safety, and long-term value. Car-related services, including MOT centres, repair garages, and fuel stations, are permitted to operate, adhering to strict Covid-19 guidelines. We strongly advise all motorists to stay informed by regularly checking the latest government advice, ensuring both their compliance with the law and the continued safe operation of their vehicles during these challenging times.

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