The Independent Garage Association (IGA) has called on Andy Burnham to increase the maximum cost of MOT tests, which currently sit at £54.85. The IGA, which represents independent garages across the UK, stressed that the current MOT fee was “unsustainable” due to increased cost pressures.
They explained that the MOT fee should be increased to at least £95, which would accurately reflect the price of labour, rent, equipment, fuel, energy and more. However, Matt Crole-Rees, motoring expert at Confused.com, warned that motorists “might be tempted to delay” an MOT test to avoid paying the higher rate, despite the risk of hefty penalties.
Risk of fines and insurance problems
Data shows that almost one in ten (9%) drivers have already had to put off their MOT because of the cost, with fears this could rise if prices jump by almost two thirds. Matt pointed out that not getting an MOT test could lead to insurance hassles and safety concerns.
Matt said: "If the price goes up, some drivers might be tempted to delay their test, or try to avoid it with a fake certificate. But driving with a fake or invalid MOT could land you with a fine of up to £1,000, as well as possible insurance problems. However, the bigger worry is your safety. The MOT helps identify safety issues with key components such as brakes, tyres, steering and suspension, so keeping up with it and getting a genuine certificate protects you and everyone else on the road."
Calls for biennial tests and fee review
According to Confused.com, as many as one in six (17%) road users think the MOT test should be once every two years in a bid to help keep costs down. The maximum MOT fee has remained unchanged since 2010, but campaigners say that the cost of running a garage and delivering the test have risen substantially since.
The IGA said keeping fees at their current level was affecting road users, with many garages forced to reduce the capacity of MOT testing bays they operate, which limits availability. Stuart James, Chief Executive of the IGA said: “It is a fact that the current MOT fee has remained static for 16 years. We are being advised by garage owners that without a significant increase to the MOT fee, they cannot continue to sustain this ever-increasing cost burden.”
