13/06/2025
So, you've had your car's MOT (Ministry of Transport) test, and unfortunately, it hasn't passed. You've been informed that it failed on a few specific items, and the good news is that you can opt for a partial retest. But what exactly does this involve, and more importantly, how much will it set you back? Understanding the cost of a partial retest is crucial for budgeting your vehicle's maintenance and ensuring you're not caught out by unexpected expenses. This guide will delve into the specifics, helping you navigate the process with confidence.
What is a Partial MOT Retest?
A partial MOT retest is a follow-up inspection carried out on a vehicle that has previously failed its MOT test. Crucially, it only covers the items that failed the initial test. This means that if your car failed on, for instance, worn brake pads and a faulty headlight bulb, the retest will solely focus on these components. If other parts of the vehicle were checked and found to be in good condition during the initial test, they will not be re-examined.
The key benefit of a partial retest is that it is typically free of charge if the vehicle is left at the testing centre for repair and retested within one working day. However, if you take your car away for repairs and bring it back for a partial retest, there will usually be a charge. This is a common point of confusion for many motorists.
When is a Partial Retest Applicable?
A partial retest is only an option if the vehicle has failed the MOT test. If your car passes, there's no need for a retest. The following conditions generally apply for a partial retest to be valid:
- The vehicle must be presented for retesting within 10 working days of the original test.
- The vehicle must be presented at the same test centre where it originally failed.
- The original failure must have been for specific, identifiable faults that can be rectified.
- The vehicle should have been repaired for the failed items.
Cost of a Partial Retest
The cost of a partial retest can vary depending on the garage and the specific items that failed. However, there are some general guidelines:
Scenario 1: Retest within 1 Working Day (at the same centre)
If you leave your car at the testing centre for repairs and they are completed within one working day, the partial retest is usually free. This is the most cost-effective option, as the tester can simply re-examine the failed components without needing to conduct a full, comprehensive test again.
Scenario 2: Retest after 1 Working Day (at the same centre)
If the repairs take longer than one working day, or if you collect your car and bring it back later, the garage can charge for a partial retest. The maximum fee they can charge for a partial retest is half the price of a full MOT test. The current maximum prices for an MOT test are:
| Vehicle Type | Maximum MOT Fee | Maximum Partial Retest Fee (Half Price) |
|---|---|---|
| Cars (up to 8 passenger seats) | £54.85 | £27.43 |
| Motorbikes (over 200cc) | £29.65 | £14.83 |
| Tricycles (over 200cc) | £29.65 | £14.83 |
It's important to note that these are maximum fees, and some garages may charge less for a partial retest, or even offer it for free as a goodwill gesture, especially if the repairs were also carried out by them.
Scenario 3: Retest at a Different Centre
If you take your vehicle to a different MOT test centre for the retest, it will be treated as a completely new MOT test, and you will have to pay the full MOT fee. This is because the new centre has no record of the original test or the repairs undertaken.
Factors Influencing the Cost
Several factors can influence the final cost of your partial retest, even within the stipulated maximum charges:
- Garage's Pricing Policy: Some garages have more competitive pricing than others. It's always worth enquiring about their retest fees beforehand.
- Nature of the Repairs: While the retest itself has a defined cost, the cost of the actual repairs to fix the failed items will be additional. The complexity and parts required for these repairs will significantly impact the overall expense.
- Time Taken for Repairs: If the repairs are extensive and require significant labour, this will naturally add to the overall bill, even if the retest is free.
Tips for Minimising Retest Costs
To keep your expenses down, consider these tips:
- Ask About Free Retests: When booking your initial MOT, ask the garage about their policy on free partial retests if the car fails.
- Get Quotes for Repairs: If your car fails, get quotes for the repair work from a few different garages. This can help you find the best price for the necessary work.
- Understand What Failed: Ensure you have a clear understanding of exactly why your car failed. This will help you get accurate quotes for repairs and ensure the correct work is done.
- Consider Repairs at the Testing Centre: If the repairs are minor and can be completed quickly, leaving the car at the testing centre for repair and retest within one working day is often the most economical option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is a partial retest always free?
No, a partial retest is only free if the vehicle is left at the testing centre for repairs and retested within one working day of the initial test. Otherwise, there will be a charge, capped at half the price of a full MOT.
Q2: How long do I have to get a partial retest?
You must present your vehicle for a partial retest within 10 working days of the original test. After this period, you will need to book a full, new MOT test.
Q3: Can I get a partial retest at any garage?
No, a partial retest can only be performed at the same test centre where the vehicle originally failed its MOT, provided it's within the specified timeframe.
Q4: What if my car fails on multiple items?
The principle of a partial retest remains the same. The retest will cover all the items that failed the initial inspection. The cost structure for the retest itself will not change based on the number of failed items, only the cost of the repairs will increase.
Q5: Does the retest include checking items that passed the first time?
No, a partial retest specifically covers only the components and systems that caused the vehicle to fail the original MOT test. Items that passed initially are not re-examined.
Conclusion
Understanding the cost of a partial MOT retest is a key part of responsible car ownership. While the ideal scenario is a first-time pass, knowing the potential costs associated with a failure can help you make informed decisions. Remember that leaving your car at the testing centre for repairs and a subsequent retest within one working day is usually the most budget-friendly approach. Always communicate clearly with your chosen MOT centre about their specific policies regarding retests and repairs to avoid any surprises.
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