Andy Burnham is facing increasing pressure to raise MOT test fees, with the Independent Garage Association (IGA) demanding the maximum fee increase from £54.85 to £95. MOT fees have been frozen since 2010, meaning garages have not been able to charge more despite rising overheads.
Garages struggling with costs
The IGA warned that many garages were having to make difficult commercial decisions, with many firms now “prioritising more commercially viable repair and servicing work” over MOT tests. The issue also affects major operators, with KwikFit backing a consultation into new pricing.
KwikFit, which carries out more than one million tests at over 500 centres per year, said it would “welcome” a consultation into higher MOT fees and suggested there was a safety angle.
Safety concerns raised
Dan Joyce, operations director at KwikFit, told The Express: “We would welcome a consultation into the current fee structure for the MOT. Staff, equipment and property costs have increased significantly in the 16 years since the test fees for cars were last reviewed and there is a shortage of qualified testers.”
Joyce claimed there was a safety angle, warning that it was a “danger to the credibility of the test” if older garages didn’t have the money to install newer testing equipment. Newer tech links directly to the DVSA’s MOT Testing Service, locking data to a specific vehicle and reducing the risk of false certificates.
Joyce added: “In addition, test centre owners are encouraged to invest in new connected equipment to meet the needs of the modernised MOT. An increase in the fee would help smaller operators justify the required investment.”
Calls for government action
The IGA said increasing MOT fees to £95 would help ensure tests remain financially viable for independent garages, protect capacity within the national testing network, and maintain consumer choice for motorists.
Stuart James, chief executive of the IGA, said: “Every month that passes without action increases the pressure on the businesses delivering this essential service. We now need Government to recognise the urgency of the situation and engage with us directly on how it will be resolved.”
