All MOT Matters

All MOT Matters

MOT Test Tyre Failures

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MOT Test Tyre Failures

MOT Test Tyre Failures
Peugeot 108 MOT test failure

MOT Test Tyre Failures

The MOT test is a reliable indicator of whether your car has been operating normally or is actually a big problem under the surface. The tyres are one of the key culprits that can cause your trusty vehicle to fail its MOT. So let’s study some frequent tyre failures, go into the world of tyres, and along the way, add a little local flavour from our Halifax streets.

1. Bald tyre treads


You’re going to fail, to start with, if your tyres are as bald as a coot. In the United Kingdom, 1.6 millimetres is the minimum permissible tread depth required throughout the middle three-quarters of the tyre. This is not just a fussy regulation; it is essential to driving safely, particularly in the frequently rainy and erratic British weather. Insufficient tread may cause your car to handle like it’s on an ice rink, which could be entertaining in a controlled environment but not when driving in rush hour on the M62!

MOT Test Tyre Failures
Skoda Yeti MOT test fail due to heavily cracked shoulder

2. Mechanical damage- MOT Test Tyre Failures


Next are any cuts, bulges, or other potential drama that your tyres may be concealing. A cursory glance could reveal a bulge from a pothole encounter on one of Halifax’s old cobblestone lanes or a gash from an incorrectly placed kerb at Sowerby Bridge. Such damage may cause your tyre to degrade and blow out. Recall that maintaining order and safety in the Calderdale Royal Hospital parking lot is more important than simply looking attractive. So check for any damage!

3. Issues with Pressure


An MOT failure might also result from improper tyre pressure. If your tyres are too low, they may heat up and wear out more quickly; if they are too high, they may provide less grip or break more quickly. Halifax’s hills and valleys give your automobile excellent exercise, but they also require properly inflated tyres to manage the city’s inclines and descents.

In spite of the fact that the tyre pressure itself is not examined during a MOT, legislation that was passed in 2015 stipulates that any vehicle that has a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) that is either malfunctioning or non-functional will fail its MOT.

4. Damage due to ageing: MOT Test Tyre Failures


Tyres can age gracefully, much like a good wine or a vintage store in the Piece Hall. However, just like an ageing actor, they may eventually lose their energy for the role. Rubber cracks and other ageing indicators may be dangerous. It’s a good idea to check the date code that the manufacturer has imprinted on the sidewall of your tyres. If it’s been longer than the Halifax Gibbet (well, not really, but you get the idea), it may be time for a replacement.

5. Incorrect size, etc. MOT Test Tyre Failures

When a tyre is noticeably different from the rest, a MOT may reveal problems. Variations in tread patterns, sizes, or types pose a threat to both safety and the success of MOT exams. It’s not exactly the kind of team spirit you need for the game, like fielding a rugby team with one player dressed for cricket.

On the test you can have two different size tyres as long as they are on the same axle. Different sizes on the same axle will be a test failure.

Here is a brief overview of the tyre issues that could ruin your car’s chances of passing the MOT. If you keep an eye on these problems, you’ll not only probably pass your next MOT with ease but also make sure that your trips across our beautiful Halifax (or beyond) are secure and safe.

Make sure your tyres are prepared for the trip, whether it’s a quick trip to the grocery store or a leisurely drive through the picturesque Calder Valley. If you’re ever unsure, stop by Pellon Autocentre garage; we’re always happy to chat and offer assistance with any concerns you may have regarding your vehicle!

Insane MOT Test Proposals

MOT Horror Submissions

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MOT Horror Submissions

According to information from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), these are the top 6 MOT failures in the UK:

Lights and signalling:

Issues with lights and signalling are the most common cause of MOT failures in the UK. This includes problems with headlights, brake lights, indicators, and other important safety features.

In the UK, problems with lights and signalling are the most frequent reason for MOT failures. Problems with the headlights, brake lights, indicators, and other crucial safety features fall under this category.

Suspension:

Suspension faults can cause uneven tyre wear, decreased vehicle stability, and other problems that can affect a vehicle’s performance and safety.

Brakes:

Problems with brakes, such as worn pads and discs, can substantially impair a vehicle’s capacity to stop swiftly and safely, making them a significant factor in MOT failures.

Tyres:

Problems with the tyres, such as inadequate tread depth or tyre sidewall damage, can also result in a vehicle failing its MOT.

Driver’s view of the road:

This is any issue that makes it difficult for the driver to see the road clearly, such as chips or cracks in the windscreen, worn wipers, or other window-related concerns.

MOT horror submissions
MOT horror submissions
Emissions testing

has grown in importance as a component of the MOT in recent years. Excessive emissions or defective emissions control systems may cause a vehicle to fail its MOT.

MOT Horror Submissions

As the owner of an MOT testing station in Halifax Yorkshire. So, we have seen most things. Hence, when it comes to car owners and presenting their beloved vehicles in for the dreaded MOT test.

Of course, this applies to 90% of motorists. Consequently, these are the drivers who really care about their cars. They do most of the right things, by having the cars checked out before the test date.

You can tell though that they are worried and often pace up and down waiting for the tester to appear with the results of the test. Obviously many drivers are worried about the potential cost. Especially this time of year when approaching Christmas time.

With this is mind it is only understandable.

That when it comes to an annual MOT test. Then drivers can often be filled with dread often presenting mot horror submissions. Wondering whether they are about to be presented with a long list of failures. Consequently, that will leave them with nothing more than an immensely high bill!

MOT Horror Submissions-Check the easy things before the test

Subsequently, If your vehicle is due your MOT test. Then check all the common things that are easy to do. Such things as the lights and tyres. This will only take you a good 10 minutes and is part of the test. make sure your windscreen wipers are in good condition and washers are working. Simple things that will ensure a smoother test experience.

It doesn’t matter how long you have been driving and what condition your car may be. So, no one actually enjoys the dreading feeling. Hence, of having to head to the local garage for their annual MOT test. We’ve heard all the horror stories. Including the multiple fails, the eye watering quote to fix any issues. Most garages are busy because they are trusted.

A lot of garages and MOT centres.

Pride themselves on providing the best service. Offering the  best prices possible as it is only this degree of customer satisfaction. That will ensure a continuous trade for the garage concerned.

However, there is a small percentage who operate with underhanded tactics and have incredibly questionable ethics that leave mechanics with a very tarnished reputation. These should be avoided at all costs. Because you will be asking for trouble and a big bill at the end of it.

MOT Horror Submissions-10% of drivers don’t give a damn?

Of course, the other 10% are the “couldn’t give a toss” brigade. These drivers turn up with their cars from hell. the car in the article image is a prime example. Worst than this some cars turn up with badly worn tyres and half the lights missing.

In general, though, things are good between our customers and testers. In fact, we have a great reputation for fairness and honesty, which is why we are always busy.

MOT test stations across the country are continuing to report dangerous defects and MOT horrors. One tester recently submitted pictures of a 2001 Nissan Micra to the DVSA after the station came across a cracked axle and

Source: Latest MOT horror submissions: have you seen worse than these?

Insane MOT Test Proposals

MOT Testing Halifax

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MOT Testing Halifax

MOT Testing Halifax
MOT Testing Halifax

MOT Testing Halifax

Pellon Autocentre is an MOT Testing Halifax station with over 20 years experience.

MOT testing in Halifax is part of a series of explanations. How the MOT Rules works to keep your car safe and legal. When you prepare your car for the MOT test, the following advice will apply:. Especially when dealing with wheels and tyres. The first thing to check are the wheels.

As a result, if you have alloy wheels. You should check for serious damage and cracks. Also, you must have a full set of wheel nuts fitted. If your car has steel wheels and plastic hub caps,. Of course, the tightness of the nuts will not be checked by the tester. Thus, they will only be checked if you remove the hub caps before the car is tested.

If any nuts are missing, then this will result in a failure.

According to the DVLA MOT Rules,. The condition of the tyre is very important. Testers look for any side wall damage and for any cuts or damage to the tyre tread. The tester will also check the tread depth. Using his official tread depth gauge,. The legal limit is 1.6 mm across three-quarters of the tread width.

Tread depth can, of course, be detected by a visual look at the tyres. Of course, before you present the car for a test,. Tyre manufacturers build into the tyre treads a wear indicator bar. When the tyre wears down to the bar, a bald patch is visible. Police officers also use these bars for a quick check of tyre condition. Especially when stopping a motorist for a checkover.

Spare wheels and tyres are not part of the MOT test.

MOT Testing Halifax. You may not present a car for a test with a temporary spare on the car.Also, you must present the car with the best four wheels and tyres on it.

Tyre sizes are checked on the car on the same axle. But other information, such as load ratings, is not checked.Because this is deemed too technical. As a result, some cars may break the law. They are not part of an MOT test and, therefore, will not fail.


It is always good practice to have your car checked out

or have a service when you have your car tested; this will ensure that your car is legal and safe. Pellon Autocentre is leading MOT testing in the Halifax area.

Pellon Tyre and Autocentre offer car and van servicing and repairs to all makes of vehicles. 

Motorists Cant Afford Next MOT

Financial support for independent garages

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Financial support for independent garages

Financial support for independent garages
Financial support for independent garages

Financial support for independent garages

I must agree with the actions of the IGA (Independent Garages Association). After all, in my opinion, they do have a valid point. Although we here at Pellon Autocentre in Halifax, UK, are not members, we are all in the same boat. Since the beginning of the MOT COVID restrictions in 2020, we have all lived in a “topsy-turvy land” of boom-and-bust MOT testing.

Consequently, we have missed out on many customers because we could not cope as a small garage during the MOT test peaks. This meant lost revenue as customers had to abandon their regular testing stations. Of course, because they were too busy. In normal times, we have a booking system and a customer reminder system. That will balance out any peaks and troughs during a normal business year.

The six-month whammy that hit us by the government has thrown all this to the wind.

We should be receiving some sort of financial help to help us balance our books in the next few years. I myself think that the rate relief scheme would be the best way forward. Not all garages are in trouble, but a balanced aid package would be a good idea.

I am pleased that the IGA has come forward on all of our behalf, and we fully support their actions. Especially in these important times when all independent garages will also suffer from the government’s incessant drive to get us all driving the dreaded electric cars, which I hope will fail.

Forward 2023- Financial support for independent garages

How the UK’s MOT System Recovered: How MOTs Bounced Again Following the COVID controversy
Okay, everyone! What’s the status? Let’s go right to the point, shall we? If you own a vehicle, you are aware of what a MOT is.

If you’re wondering what it is, it’s the Ministry of Transportation’s test to make sure your car is safe. MOTs typically conduct business as usual. But when the COVID-19 epidemic struck, the MOT system, as you may say, took a turn for the worse. Let’s explore how it is making a comeback and doing so more powerfully than a cup of Yorkshire tea.

A Quick Review of The COVID-19 Effect

What transpired, then? In short, during the epidemic, the government agreed to temporarily extend MOT certificates by six months. At first, it seemed fantastic; however, it had a downside. On the one hand, they didn’t need to go outside. On the other hand, a tonne of cars that needed a thorough inspection were gallivanting through the streets. Not to mention the strain it had on garage businesses like mine in Halifax and throughout the UK.

Regaining Control- Financial support for independent garages

Once some time has passed, things are starting to move again. There are still unfinished MOTs to deal with after the extension was lifted. But what’s this? Being British, we keep going. To clear the backlog, garages are providing special discounts, extending their hours, and generally going above and beyond.

The Positive: Technology Advances and Internet Bookings

Doesn’t it sometimes require a catastrophe to spur some innovation? The technology in garages all throughout the UK has been updated. Internet reservations have multiplied, and we now have apps that can remind you when your MOT is due. It’s honestly never been simpler to get your car serviced.

Certain regional colours

If you’re from the Halifax area, as I am, you may have noticed that neighbourhood garages have been going all out. According to a small bird, several businesses even stayed open later to make sure that each car had its due. Do you enjoy a little bit of neighbourhood pride?

Stay composed and carry on. Financial support for independent garages

We’ve handled this kerfuffle in typical British fashion. The MOT system is more robust than ever, and garages are recovering. The backlog is being cleared, and we are changing to ensure that a situation like this never diverts us off our course again.

Final Thoughts

So there you go, friends. The MOT system has recovered after a brief setback. It serves as a tribute to British tenacity and teaches us that we are adaptable and resilient. Keep our roadways as safe as our homes by getting your car inspected.

Thank you for listening, and if you need a MOT, you know who to contact. Drive safely and continue!

That’s all there is to say at this time. Searching for a reliable location to have your MOT? You’re aware of our location. For now, ta!

The Independent Garage Association (IGA) has written to the Chancellor of the Exchequer, the Transport Secretary and other Ministers, urging them to put a financial support package in place for garages. The trade body argues that

Source: IGA calls on government to provide ongoing financial support for independent garages

Independent garages lead MOT testing

MOT Test Combined with Car Servicing

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MOT Test Combined with Car Servicing

MOT Test Combined with Car Servicing
MOT Test Combined with Car Servicing

MOT Test Combined with Car Servicing

Unlike a vehicle MOT test, servicing is not a legal requirement for your vehicle. However, you will probably find that regular servicing can help to keep everything.

Eric Roberts‘s insight:

Pre-testing your car can mean the difference between passing and failing the MOT test when it comes time for testing. Consider it as giving your vehicle some TLC before the examiners arrive.

A service helps identify any minor concerns, such as worn-out brake pads, malfunctioning lights, or even low fluid levels, that could become serious problems during the MOT. In addition to increasing your car’s chances of passing the test, taking care of these issues beforehand can guarantee that it operates smoothly and safely when driving. You might also avoid the inconvenience of having to retake the test, which nobody likes!

To be honest, most of our customers do have an MOT test and service at the same time. This practice gives the car owner peace of mind that their car is in reasonable condition for at least 12 months up to the next annual testing time. Of course, this doesnt count for any mechanical failure of a part.

We all must be responsible for our cars servicing and  test

Sometimes I find it a great shame. Incredibly, we are in the motor trade. Insistently, you have to keep harping on about servicing your cars. One of the main excuses in recent times! Of course, there has been a recession. Recently, car drivers just haven’t had any spare cash to spend on their vehicles. Consequently, we have all seen people just putting £10’s worth of fuel into their cars at the filling station? Ridiculous, but true !

MOT Test Combined with Car Servicing
MOT Test Combined with Car Servicing

In my opinion,

I think that these people should have some kind of budget. A sort of “piggy bank” and save to have their vehicle serviced. Including any mechanical work required when it goes in for its annual vehicle test. Incidentally, it is estimated that 4.7 million people miss their mot testing date. I am sure that drivers either just flaunt the law or are not aware that driving your

A car without a valid MOT test certificate is an offence referenced in Section 47 of the 1988 Road Traffic Act.

Also, driving without an MOT test.

will make your insurance invalid, and you may receive a fine of up to £1000. Is it really worth it when you can have a vehicle test and a service for most average family saloons for around £150? If you are not sure where you can go to have your vehicle serviced, you should go online and look for your nearest local independent garage; they will offer you excellent service at a fair price.

Once you have had your MOT test and service you should be safer for another year, although I recommend that you have an engine oil and filter change in between the tests to be on the safe side. Also, do not forget to check your levels at regular intervals, say once a week, and top them up when required.

Here we are now at the back end of 2024, nearing Christmas time, and the price of fuel has plummeted. The only problem is that the price of oil and petrol is not following as fast. The experts say that it may take a little longer for this to take place, but I was just wondering if services for cars would also be coming down. I am not so sure , but I suspect so.

Second-hand tyres

MOT Test for Safer Roads

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MOT Test for Safer Roads

MOT Test for Safer Roads
MOT Test for Safer Roads

MOT Test for Safer Roads

Some motorists may think

that the Ministry of Transport (VOSA) is in a money-making  racket. You have to take your car to be MOT tested every year to pass a roadworthy test. But they do not see that having those MOT tests, . Actually, you can help prevent accidents and cut down on road deaths by keeping badly maintained vehicles off the road.

By carrying out an MOT test every year on vehicles that have been on the road for three years from their first registration, VOSA has successfully managed to lower the number of unsatisfactory cars on the road, making things safe for the rest of us.

So if you have had your car for at least three years, then you need to find your nearest MOT test  station and have your car MOT tested. The easiest way is to book online, You can search for MOT Halifax if you need to find your nearest testing station if you live in the Calderdale area of West Yorkshire.

MOT Test Safer Roads-Any testing station? MOT Test for Safer Roads

It is possible to take it to any testing station to have it tested there. Consequently, you can be on your way home soon after you get a test completed. The only thing you need to know. Hence, they are a fully accredited testing station. Able to carry out a thorough and legal test. It is also important that they don’t let you get away with small mechanical faults. Of course, that would affect  the roadworthiness of your vehicle.

After all, this will defeat the whole purpose.

Thus, the tests were carried out in the first place. You want to make sure that your vehicle gets through the test as smoothly as possible. As a result, there are many checks that need to be performed. During the MOT test, your car has to meet the standard.

So, for ,these checks,. Consequently, you will be ready to go home in no time with a pass. The bodywork on your car needs to be in good condition. Therefore, there are no rusting or rotten holes. The fuel system, emissions tests, and exhaust system. All need to be in good working order without any more CO2 than is required.

MOT Test Safer Roads-Your car could fly past the MOT test. MOT Test for Safer Roads

Seat belts and seats must not be rotted and be able to keep you secure. Your brakes must still have enough pads left in them before the next brake check, and your tyres need enough tread to make sure you have the minimum legal requirements. . Make sure your lights and indicators are in good working order, and your wipers must be in good condition to ensure they clear the windscreen when it is raining and the rubber blades are in good shape.

Your steering and suspension need to be within regulation standards to make sure you are able to control the movement of the vehicle with no loose, worn parts. Your registration, plates, and vehicle identification need to be in good order as well. So look after your car, and it should fly through the MOT Test Safer Roads.

Insane MOT Test Proposals

MOT Test Fee: How low

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MOT Test Fee: How low

MOT Test Fee: How low
MOT Test Fee: How low

MOT Test Fee: How low

MOT Test Fee In recent times, the price of an MOT test fee has dropped.

So, enabling garages to try and attract the cash strapped motorists. All sorts of deals have been advertised. Incredibly, even “FREE”, testing. Which is allowed under the “DVLA MOT Rules” signs outside garages.

So, as the owner of an MOT test centre in Halifax. I am amazed at the number of garages giving away “cheap MOT tests” . Of course, the official mot test fee should be £54.85 (no vat). As stated on the www.gov.uk web-site.

This MOT test fee is only a suggested amount for garages to use; it is not required. So, based on the time and equipment that it should take to carry out the mot test, according to VOSA the government test agency here in the UK,.

Significantly, the Government totally regulate our testing stations.

Including visits by their inspectors ? Consequently, who also make sure that we have the correct equipment and that all our paperwork is in order. Naturally, we have regular updates for testing procedures .

Such as any mechanical updates or different specifications that may have to changed during a test. The ministry guys also check our testers. Making sure that they are carrying out the correct testing procedures.

We have to provide a suitable reception and viewing room for the customers and also use VOSA’s own computer system to register the test results and store all the other information about my garage and the cars that are entered into the system.

In other words, in my opinion, we are controlled by the government!

Ensuring that the testing procedure is carried out correctly and within the law. If we stray from the correct procedures, we are subject to all sorts of penalties. Which would ultimately result in the closure of your MOT station. I am not moaning about all this, to the contrary.

I think that the system is a very good one and is the envy of many countries. Of course, it is not perfect, but then again, nothing is in the world of garages.

The average hourly rate that we charge for mechanical work in the independent garage sector. It is said to be around the £40 per hour mark ! In my opinion, this is a very fair price to charge. The Government maintain that because we here in the UK use the private sector to test cars.

Then the MOT Test Fee is only a recommended fee and garages could charge what they want. So, the problem is that when they visit, they ask you what you charge in your garage. Subsequently, they don’t seam to like it if you discount the MOT Test fee (that’s the impression that I get). However, it appears that they are the ones who believe that the private sector should control pricing.

mot test prices have dropped “big style”

In recent times, the price of an MOT Test Fee has dropped. Enabling garages to attract cash-strapped motorists. All sorts of deals have been advertised. Even “FREE”, testing is allowed under the DVLA MOT Rules. Can be  seen up and down the country. Obviously, this is a move to attract motorists into your garage ! I hope that you may get some mechanical work from a test failure! There is nothing wrong with that ! you may say.

The problem is that we have all made huge investments in these mobile test stations.

Meaning that the price we are getting is far lower than the investment in staff and machinery. I understand that we all have to take the good with the bad ! But I now feel that it is time that the Government step in.

They could do two things, in my opinion. They could have a minimum price paid for a test based on the average hourly rate, say perhaps £40, or make the £54.85 in to a mandatory MOT Test Fee to all motorists, and not just a recommendation.

It will be interesting for some feedback from other garage owners with mot test stations here in the UK. So, since this article first appeared. Computerization has made significant changes to the DVLA garage procedures. In fact testers have now to be examined t more regular intervals that previously. In my opinion this is a good thing ! 

Also, testing procedures are now adjusted more often.

Because of the regular changes to emission testing procedures emanating from the of requirements of the European Union strict emission laws. Of course to bring down the nations “carbon foot print” So, reducing the C02 emissions. Naturally, this has affected diesel cars the most.

We all know about the diesel car scandal ? Most car manufacturers were falsifying the C02 figures of their diesel models. Of course, this brought a clampdown from the regulators.

Significantly turning around the theory that the diesel cars were better for the climate than the petrol cars. Responding to this, the EU came out with much stricter emission rules. resulting in stricter MOT emission testing in the EU member countries.

However, I have recently learned that  VW have been selling older diesel cars to countries like Albania at highly discounted prices ! So much for emission standards !

There are rules for some and rules for others ! Many diesel cars can now be treated to clean the internal workings of the engine. Significantly improving the cars chances of passing the MOT test.

We offer an engine carbon cleaning service for this purpose.

Insane MOT Test Proposals

MOT Tests Book Early

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MOT Tests Book Early

MOT Tests Book Early
MOT Tests Book Early

MOT Tests Book Early

I would like to take this opportunity to warn drivers about the huge impending MOT Test backlog that is imminent. So we are coming up to the anniversary of the Governments postponement of testing due the Covid 19 pandemic. I and many other experts predict  a mad rush and a possible double-up of up-coming MOT tests.

Our advice would be to take advantage. MOT Tests Book Early

of a 28-day extension that is now open to motorists. This will give motorists a 28-day extra period in which to book in their car for the MOT test. This will mean that your original test date will remain the same for the following year.

Here at Pellon Autocentre in Halifax UK we have remained busy testing for most of the summer period. Meaning that things can only become busier and probably not been able to cope with the large influx of  the extra overlapping tests from the pandemic.

28-day extension is well advised!

So, by booking your MOT Tests Book Early, you will be “killing two birds with one stone”. This will spread out the backlog of tests for the MOT stations. Enabling customers to go to their favourite garages for their annual tests. For instance, last year, we could not cope with all the tests presented to us! Thus, some customers are disappointed by having to test the car at a strange and unfamiliar garage.

Testing stations are only allowed a certain number. MOT Tests Book Early

of test slots on any working day. So by taking advantage of the 28-day period, it enables the garages to spread out the work loads. The customer still retains  the correct amount of test time for next year and we are all happier.

The last 18 months have turned the traditional MOT demand curve on its head. And while this caused initial uncertainty for the independent aftermarket, there is now a significant opportunity on the horizon. Nearly three quarters

Source: LKQ Euro Car Parts warn of an impending MOT wave – Garagewire

mot testing and car servicing

Worn out vehicles failing MOT

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Worn out vehicles failing MOT

Worn out vehicles failing MOT
Worn out vehicles failing MOT

Worn out vehicles failing MOT

Worn-out vehicles failing MOT

So, this is something that we at Pellon Autocentre in Halifax have been noticing. However, it is not rocket science! Modern-day cars are meant to run all the time and have regular servicing. During the on-going pandemic, cars have been stood outside houses without being run at all. This can effect many of the vehicle’s engine parts, causing a failure on emissions when taking the MOT test.

We know for a fact that many cars have missed out on years of service.

So, this can lead to dirty oil and, indeed, blocked air and oil filters. Even further down the line, engine valves could be sticking, of course, due to the lack of servicing. Older cars will find that their plugs were not changed on the due servicing date. Once again, this causes the vehicle to have lower emission standards and possibly fail the MOT test.

Other problems due to standing vehicles

So, its not just emission problems that have occurred; other things have become relevant. We have noticed an increase in broken springs and other suspension and steering parts. As I have explained, modern cars need to be used, and standing about has not done them any good.

Such things as coil springs

are put under pressure when they stand in one place all the time. The springs are under tension and will become more rigid and more likely to break once the car is finally driven. This metal fatigue also causes other tensioned parts to fail when put under pressure, like hitting a pot hole.

Almost 1.3 million vehicles failed their MOT last year because of faults relating to exhaust emissions, new data suggests. A Freedom of Information (FOI) request to the DVSA found more cars have failed on emissions

Source: Vehicles failing MOT in record numbers over emissions

Motorists Cant Afford Next MOT

MOT Testing Halifax area: Dont GO To Your Local Council

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MOT Testing Halifax area

MOT Testing Halifax area
MOT Testing Halifax area

MOT Testing Halifax area

MOT Testing Why You Should avoid Your Local Council

So, I am now the owner of my garage, Pellon Tyre, and Autocentre, which have been operating for over 40 years. As a result, I have tried to build up a reputation that is second to none. Over the years, we have built up a fantastic reputation and trust.

We have always been straight and honest with our customers. Hence, I personally have been the owner of this garage here in Halifax. For the past 25 years,. In that time, we have carried out thousands of MOT tests. Of course, we have always used our best discretion. Carrying out MOT testing. Having always had the customer’s best interests at heart.

Over the years, we have only had one small dispute with a customer. Subsequently, that was the fault of our tester at the time. Replacing him as soon as we could. Thus, at the moment, we only have two testers. Ryan Linton, who, in my opinion, is a first class mechanic,. Naturally, a person, and has worked for me for 22 years. We now have a second tester, Mr. Dale Linton.

The point that I am getting at is the massive effort that we at Pellon have put into our garage and MOT testing service, MOT Testing Halifax area

This was, in my opinion, undermined. So, when I heard a guy being interviewed on Radio 2. This presenter was from a website telling us how we can save money. Advising the listeners to go to the local councils. Thus, for their car MOT testing,. Because if they went there,.

Then they would not be taken for a ride or ripped off. Consequently, he was basically saying that MOT centres are vehicle testing stations. So those who carry out MOT testing fail the cars intentionally. In order to give themselves the work of repairing the car.

This could not be further from the truth. VOSA DVLA MOT Testing Rules statistics. Show that privately owned testing stations. As a result, you are more likely to pass the car than fail the car. The money website claims that the local council runs testing stations.

Therefore, they are more likely to pass your car than a private garage. Such as the  likes of my own garage in Halifax. So what they are saying is we are corrupt. By failing cars just to get the mechanical work.

Local Council want private MOT Testing stations to test taxis? MOT Testing Halifax area

Other things that I am not happy with are the good reviews that they say they have had from customers of the local council testing stations. One says that they fitted a light bulb and then they passed the car, the council test stations do not do any mechanical work whatsoever, so this was porky.

Another one stated that his car had failed at a private garage and the car needed £400 spent on it to pass the test, so the guy took his car to the council test station, and they passed it without any problems.

I frankly do not believe what they say, I agree that we are not all squeaky clean in the garage trade, but we are well regulated by VOSA, and if the figures for different failures do not look right, then VOSA will give you a visit and try to see whats going on.

Council testing stations used to charge the full going rate for MOT Testing, MOT Testing Halifax area

But I rang around today and found out that they have now started to discount the tests, I think that they are under pressure to do more testing from the cash strapped councils. In fact, we did get a notification asking us if we would like to carry out testing on behalf of the council, but I declined the offer as we are busy enough anyway.

Another problem with the local council test stations is that if your car fails, then you have to go to a garage for the work to be carried out, and then they have to go back to the council for a re-test. This is a long way around when a private garage will, in most cases, have done the work on the car the same day, saving the customer time and money.

MOT testing station owner Eric Roberts . MOT Testing Halifax area

There is no evidence at all to back up the money website’s claims. Fundamentally, there are no statistics from VOSA showing that MOT testing stations carry out repair work. So, more cars fail than council-run MOT testing stations.

It is really clear that going to a MOT only testing station. Such as the council’s operations. Is likely to incur considerable cost and personnel inconvenience. Especially if the car fails on a minor fault, such as a light bulb, and has to make another appointment for a re-test.

VOSA is the government department in charge of MOT testing. Importantly, we are always watching out for garages. bad practices and make regular visits to offending garages. MOT garages are also given colour codes that relate to their testing standards. Green is the best, then Amber, and the worst standard is Red.

So, these are the ones that the ministry keeps a careful eye on. It is worth finding out what standard of the testing station is, before you book your car in. I am proud to say that we at Pellon Autocentre are in the best lane, the green lane.

MOT testing station

Pellon Tyre and Autocentre offer car and van servicing and repairs to all makes of vehicles. MOT Testing Halifax area

Comment from Jim McMasters –

As the owner of an older car I have been tempted to use the Council test stations. This year I had two MOT tests by two different independent garages. Garage No 1 failed the car on rear brake pipes and front and rear brake hoses with both front suspension bushes advisory – cost of repairs £344 inc MOT.

Garage No 2 failed the car on front and rear brake pipes and the suspension bushes and said the brake hoses were advisory with mild corrosion on the ferrules and discoloration of rear indicator bulbs which had been replaced by Garage No1 the year before – cost of repairs £601 inc MOT.

The only thing that puts me off using the Council testing stations is that if you fail you then have to fend around for someone to fix the car within the retest period which takes time and I’ve found some garages don’t want to do brake pipe jobs if they are busy with bolt on type repairs. So I think you make a fair point in favour of the independent garage for practical purposes but as my example shows, there is a lack of consistency with garages both in testing and pricing.