Car Failed MOT? What Next?

What Happens If Your Car Fails Its MOT Test?

It's a moment many car owners dread: receiving the news that your vehicle hasn't passed its annual Ministry of Transport (MOT) test. Whether you took it to Kwik Fit or another testing centre, a failed MOT means your car is not legally permitted to be on the road. This can be a stressful situation, but understanding the process and your options can make it much more manageable. This guide will walk you through what to do if your car fails its MOT, the common reasons for failure, and how to get back on the road as quickly and efficiently as possible.

Understanding the MOT Test and Failure

The MOT test is a crucial annual check to ensure your vehicle meets road safety and environmental standards. It covers various aspects of your car, from the condition of the brakes and tyres to emissions and lighting. A failure means that a specific component or system does not meet the required standards.

When your car fails, you'll receive a 'Refusal of an MOT Test Certificate' (VT30) form. This document details the reasons for the failure and categorises the faults found. It's essential to keep this form safe as it provides the information you need to get the necessary repairs done.

Common Reasons for MOT Failure

While cars can fail for a multitude of reasons, some are far more prevalent than others. Understanding these common pitfalls can help you proactively maintain your vehicle and potentially avoid a failed MOT in the first place. Here are some of the most frequent culprits:

• Tyres: Insufficient tread depth (below 1.6mm), cuts, bulges, or incorrect tyre pressures.
• Brakes: Worn brake pads or discs, leaks in the braking system, or ineffective braking performance.
• Lights: Malfunctioning headlights, taillights, brake lights, or indicators.
• Suspension: Worn shock absorbers, damaged springs, or loose suspension components.
• Exhaust System: Leaks, excessive noise, or high emissions.
• Windscreen: Cracks or chips in the driver's line of sight.
• Wipers and Washers: Ineffective windscreen wipers or washer fluid not being sprayed.
• Steering: Worn steering components or excessive play.
• Bodywork: Significant corrosion or sharp edges that pose a danger.
• Seatbelts: Damaged or malfunctioning seatbelts.

What to Do Immediately After Failing

If your car fails its MOT, you have a few key options:

Option 1: Drive the Car for Repair (Under Specific Conditions)

You are legally allowed to drive your car to a pre-booked appointment for repair or to a pre-booked MOT retest, provided the existing MOT certificate has not yet expired. Crucially, you can only do this if the car did not fail due to a 'Dangerous' defect. If any of the faults listed on your VT30 are marked as 'Dangerous', you must not drive the vehicle until these issues are rectified.

Option 2: Arrange for Recovery

If your car has failed due to a dangerous defect, or if your current MOT has already expired, you will need to arrange for it to be recovered. This can be done via a tow truck or trailer to a garage for repairs.

Getting Repairs Done

Once you have your VT30 form, you'll know exactly what needs to be fixed. You can choose to have the repairs carried out by the original testing centre (like Kwik Fit) or by an independent mechanic of your choice. Many people opt for a trusted local garage for repairs.

It's wise to get a quote for the repairs before committing. Ask for a breakdown of the parts and labour involved. Some garages may offer a package deal that includes the MOT retest after the repairs are completed.

The MOT Retest

After the necessary repairs have been made, your car will need to undergo an MOT retest. The rules regarding retests vary depending on when the original MOT was done and where the repairs are carried out.

Retesting at the Same Garage (e.g., Kwik Fit):

If you leave your car at the original testing centre for repairs, they may offer a free or discounted retest. This is often the case if the repairs are minor and can be completed within one working day of the original test. If you take the car away for repairs and bring it back to the same centre:

• Within 1 working day: A partial retest is usually free.
• Between 1 and 60 days: A partial retest usually incurs a fee, typically half the price of a full MOT.

What is a Partial Retest?

A partial retest only involves checking the items that failed the original test. If other components have developed faults since the original test, these will need a full MOT inspection.

Retesting at a Different Garage:

If you have had your car repaired elsewhere, you will need to book a full MOT test at a new testing centre. This means you will pay the full price for the MOT again.

What if the Car Fails the Retest?

If your car fails the retest, you'll receive another VT30 form. The process for repairs and retesting starts again. It's crucial to ensure that all the previously identified faults have been correctly addressed before the retest.

Cost Considerations

The cost of MOT tests and repairs can vary. The maximum fee for an MOT is set by the government, but garages can charge less. Repairs will depend on the nature and extent of the faults. Always get quotes and compare prices.

Typical MOT Test Fees (as of current regulations, always check for updates):

Remember, these are maximum fees. Some garages may offer lower prices.

Tips for a Successful MOT and Retest

• Regular Maintenance: Don't wait for the MOT to check your car. Regular servicing can catch potential problems early.
• Pre-MOT Checks: Many garages, including Kwik Fit, offer free or paid pre-MOT checks. These can highlight issues before the official test.
• Check the Obvious: Before your MOT, check your tyre tread, all lights, wipers, and screen wash.
• Understand the Faults: Read your VT30 carefully and ask the mechanic to explain any unclear points.
• Choose Your Repairer Wisely: If you don't use the original testing centre, ensure your chosen mechanic is reputable.
• Keep Records: Keep all receipts for repairs and MOT tests.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I drive my car if it fails its MOT?
You can drive your car to a pre-booked repair appointment or a pre-booked MOT retest, provided the previous MOT hasn't expired and the failure wasn't due to a 'Dangerous' defect.

Q2: How long do I have to get repairs done after failing an MOT?
There's no strict legal deadline for repairs, but you cannot drive the car legally until it passes an MOT. If the previous MOT has expired, you must have it repaired and retested before driving it.

Q3: Is a retest always necessary?
Yes, if your car fails the initial MOT, a retest is required to confirm the repairs have been successful and the vehicle now meets the required standards.

Q4: What happens if my MOT expires while my car is being repaired?
If your MOT expires while undergoing repairs, you cannot drive the vehicle on public roads until it has passed a new MOT test. It will need to be transported to the testing centre.

Q5: Can Kwik Fit do the repairs and the retest?
Yes, Kwik Fit centres that are authorised MOT test centres can carry out repairs and conduct the retest. They will inform you about the retest fees based on their policy and the timing of the repairs.

Conclusion

Failing an MOT can be an inconvenience, but it's a vital part of ensuring road safety. By understanding the process, the common reasons for failure, and your options for repair and retesting, you can navigate this situation effectively. Regular vehicle maintenance and pre-MOT checks are your best defence against unexpected failures, helping you keep your car safe, legal, and on the road.

If you want to read more articles similar to Car Failed MOT? What Next?, you can visit the Automotive category.