All MOT Matters

All MOT Matters

Insane MOT Test Proposals

MOT Tests Book Early

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

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

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.

Insane MOT Test Proposals

MOT Test Chaos Continues

MOT Test Chaos Continues

MOT Test Chaos Continues
MOT Test Chaos Continues

MOT Test Chaos Continues

So this attached article is all about the chaos that the government caused by issuing the six-month exemption from your car’s MOT test! Of course, during last year’s lockdown.

Many garages and MOT centres are now short of work because customers have brought their MOT tests forward. To explain, most customers of garages would have their cars serviced at the same time. Now, because of the rush, garages have a void in their work schedule. Including us at Pellon Autocentre in Halifax .

So, in there wisdom,

The DVLA is advising motorists to bring their test forward. The Months with a void are now May, June and July. Because garage customers had their cars tested early, a huge void has occurred.

These cars are not due to have a test until August, September and October. It means to me that the six-month MOT exemption has completely thrown out the systems balance.

Businesses find this difficult to balance out and will be paying staff to be stood around . In my opinion the government should compensate garages to help them through this period until the Autumn.

Where are the DVLA telling the motorists ? MOT Test Chaos Continues

The attached article writes about the DVLA urging motorists! Unfortunately, I am wondering where this advice is going to be published ! I watch TV and listen to the radio all the time, but I have not yet seen any sign of the DVLA advising drivers.

So, I urge drivers to do anything. I suspect that what they mean is that we, the local garage, have to tell our own customers that getting an early MOT would be possible.

Another garage owner that I know says that he has been realy messed up by the government decision to the six month MOT extension. Frighteningly, he says that he has had no customers since March wanting an MOT test. He like me suspects that it will be like this until late August. The DVSA are doing nothing to help and I suspect garages will be closing down!

Finally, I believe that a six-month extension was not at all necessary!

The six-month grace meant that millions of drivers were taking the micky! Like my own garage, thousands of MOT centres are only doing a couple of tests a week!

This also includes the busy garages. I believe that the action that the government took is now causing the industry big problems. So, support should be given to MOT stations. We are losing revenue whilst still having to pay for MOT equipment and staff wages. This has been awarded to other industries requiring financial aid during these difficult times.

Financial Incentives could be the way- MOT Test Chaos Continues

Finally, I think that the government could offer a financial incentive to try and get an early MOT test. Otherwise, drivers will not be prepared to have their cars tested early. Understandably, most motorists leave there MOT test to the last minute. Most have a fear that the car may require expensive repairs, so, as I say, leave the test until the last minute.

The DVSA is urging motorists with a vehicle MOT due in August, September, October and November 2021 to bring their vehicle in for a test during May, June or July instead. It comes as MOT predictions

Source: DVSA urges motorists to bring MOT forward as exemption chaos continues

Ignorance Of Towing Laws

Ignorance Of Towing Laws

Ignorance Of Towing Laws

Ignorance Of Towing Laws
Ignorance Of Towing Laws

Ignorance Of Towing Laws

Even the largest domestic vehicles, like a pick-up truck or a van, aren’t always big enough for your driving needs. When you need to add extra capacity to your vehicle, whether it’s space for a horse, extra storage, or even somewhere that doubles as a home on wheels, the answer is simple: tow another structure behind your existing vehicle.
Towing is popular with many drivers, but it does come with responsibility. The DVLA has laws around towing, and drivers need to be aware of them and compliant at all times.

While this might seem obvious,

even two years after a major change in towing laws was implemented, only 14% of respondents to a recent survey were aware of the developments. The law now allows those who passed their driving test from after January 1997 can tow trailers of up to 3,500kg MAM without undertaking additional training.
Just because less training is now required, that doesn’t mean that towing isn’t still a dangerous pastime or that it isn’t a privilege that we need to take very seriously. Driver ignorance could potentially be fatal, especially when you’re towing a heavy trailer or caravan.

Here are some of the many reasons why this ignorance could be dangerous and how drivers can brush up on their knowledge before they hitch up their trailers.

Drivers Might Be Making Mistakes When Hitching-Ignorance Of Towing Laws

If drivers are ignorant of basic towing laws, then it begs the question: What else don’t they know about towing trailers or caravans? One of the most significant areas where they could be going wrong from the start is hitching their trailer to their vehicle.

Having properly fitted tow bars that are attached by an expert fitter and used correctly is crucial for ensuring that the trailer is properly secured from the start of the journey. Incorrectly hitching a trailer to a vehicle can result in
detachment while driving. This not only endangers the occupants of the towing vehicle but also poses a significant risk to other road users, so drivers need to be aware of how to do this correctly.

It Might Mean Poor Driving Etiquette-Ignorance Of Towing Laws

Ignorance of towing laws can lead to improper use of overtaking lanes and slow lanes, causing frustration among other drivers and increasing the likelihood of road rage incidents. The law dictates how drivers should behave when they have a trailer, and if they don’t understand one aspect of it, they probably won’t grasp driving etiquette when towing a trailer or caravan.

This can lead to problems with other drivers and potential dangers. One area that could cause significant problems is overtaking others and turning correctly around other drivers when towing a trailer.

Towing a trailer affects visibility and manoeuvrability, so not having proper overtaking and turning techniques can lead to collisions, especially in tight spaces or when attempting manoeuvres without a clear understanding of the trailer’s path.

Ignorance Of Towing Laws
Ignorance Of Towing Laws

Proper Maintenance Might Not Be Undertaken

Drivers who don’t understand the law might not be interested in maintaining and caring for their vehicles, tow bars, and trailers effectively. Towing puts additional strain on all the vehicle’s components.

Ignoring maintenance requirements can result in mechanical failures while on the road, leading to accidents or breakdowns, so drivers need to be aware of these issues and manage them effectively. Drivers who view towing as a simple experience might not maintain their vehicles correctly when towing.

Ignorance Could Lead To A Lack Of Attention When Towing

Any vehicle can be challenging to drive, but when your car has an extra piece attached at the back that is long and heavy, there are additional issues that you need to bear in mind. As such, towing a trailer requires heightened awareness of the road and surroundings.

Not knowing how the trailer affects blind spots, turning radius, and overall vehicle length can lead to accidents or issues, especially in tight urban areas with narrow streets. Also, towing often comes at a reduced speed limits on certain roads. Ignoring these limits can lead to dangerous situations, as trailers require more time to slow down or stop safely. As a result, driver error could cause serious problems for road users.

What You Can Do To Stay Up-To-Date-Ignorance Of Towing Laws

Whether you’re a caravan owner, a horse transporter, or you regularly use a trailer for your work, you need to understand the laws and stay up-to-date with them. To make sure that you always know about changes to the law when towing or any other aspect of driving, follow the DVLA’s blog for regular updates.

You can also make the most of sites like ours

to understand how these new rules will affect you and what you can do to ensure your compliance at all times. Being proactive will make you a better driver and ensure that you can navigate the UK’s roads safely and effectively.

 

Insane MOT Test Proposals

Rolls-Royce MOT

Rolls-Royce MOT

Rolls-Royce MOT
Rolls-Royce MOT

Rolls-Royce MOT

This Roller will probably be the nicest car that we have had in the garage for its This magnificent car was brought into my garage for an Rolls Royce MOT. We were very pleased to see such a fine specimen of a vintage Bentley Wraith.

This magnificent Rolls-Royce Wraith car, a 1939 drop-head coupe, is one of only 220 in the World. Its designer, James Young and Company of London’s Bromley, is significant. Later, London-based Rolls-Royce dealer Jack Barclay purchased it. This magnificent car was brought into my garage for a Rolls-Royce MOT. We were very pleased to see such a fine specimen of a vintage Bentley Wraith model. Although the new DVLA MOT Rules state that these cars do not have to have a Rolls-Royce MOT any more,. Most owners still go through the procedure for insurance purposes.

It was in 1931-Rolls-Royce MOT

that the then-Rolls-Royce company “bought out ” Bentley Motors” . Consequently, the whole works was moved from the Bentley factory in Cricklewood, London, NW2. Of course, to Derby, in the North midlands of the UK.

Bentley cars that were produced there are were commonly referred to as the “Derby-Bentley s”. These cars were first introduced in 1933. Hence, the first of these Bentley s that were made in Derby was simply known as the 3 1/2-litre. Subsequently, they were very similar in design and look to the Rolls Royce 20/25.

Thus, that was made in the same year.-Rolls-Royce MOT

The Bentley cars very soon became the more powerful and sporty versions of the  Rolls Royce. These 3.5-litre engineered Bentley’s that were produced in Derby were not in the same technology class as the ones produced in Cricklewood, London.

In 1936, the Derby-made Bentley’s and the new Rolls-Royce were fitted with 4.257-litre engine and a four-speed gearbox.

this vastly improved the cars performance giving the owner far more acceleration power and making the car feel very sporty to drive. These cars were made until the beginning of World war 2

Production lasted until the outbreak of World War II, with over 1200 examples produced Many of these cars are still running today, like the fine example that was presented to us here in Halifax, UK. More

reading...http://www.coachbuild.com/index.php?option=com_gallery2&Itemid=50&g2_itemId=7787&g2_GALLERYSID=ca3cbacf38f4443917eafa41ebe53fba

Dishonest MOT testers

Dishonest MOT testers a Nightmare

Dishonest MOT testers a Nightmare

Dishonest MOT testers a Nightmare

As the owner of an MOT station, I must sympathise with the huge multinational companies that are involved with MOT testing. Thus, MOT testing is a very important and trustworthy job to have.

So, you are not just working for your particular company but are doing this in conjunction with the UK Government. Consequently, this is a very responsible position to hold.

In my business in Halifax, UK, we have two testers. Both of these guys hold very high positions in my business. Indeed, they are the key to a successful garage business.

As garage owners, we are held fully responsible and regularly checked by the VOSA MOT standards agency. If I had hundreds of MOT testers working for me, then I would not sleep at night.

The Dangers of an Unreliable MOT Examiner:

A Warned Garage & MOT Centre Owner

Hello, good customers and road warriors! Now, let’s change gears and discuss something a little more important: Dishonest MOT testers. Namely, what might dreadfully go wrong if you, as the owner of a garage and MOT test centre, unintentionally hire a dishonest one.

Put your seatbelts on; you certainly don’t want to find yourself on this road.

Reputation Ruin:

Dishonest MOT testers can quickly tarnish the name of your company. Bad news dangerously spreads faster than a Ferrari on an open road thanks to people’s conversations and our hyperconnected society.

MOT inspections are about more than just road safety; they are a safety shambles. Every driver on the road is at risk from an unreliable tester. Literally, it’s a life or death situation.

Lying is not only wrong, it is also criminal. A single poor test result might land you in a tangle of penalties, fines, and even the dreaded courtroom dance.

Consumer Catastrophe:

Consider the shock a client would feel after learning they’ve been conned. Trust takes years to develop but just moments to destroy. And good luck trying to get it back once it’s gone.

Financial Repercussions:

Refunds, Lawsuits, and Penalties

—Oh My! Your hard-earned income could be quickly drained by the dodgy tester’s hidden fees.

This one is soul-crushing:

Ethical Erosion. It can be stressful to be aware that you’ve endangered others. It’s a slippery slope that you don’t want to start down ethically.

So let’s wrap it all up. Although the risks are really high, you do want to trust the people you hire. Make sure your MOT testers are thoroughly vetted for the love of everything automotive and the road itself. Because it does, people.

Maintain the most moral contact between the road and your tyres by driving safely and honestly.

Total trust is essential.

Multinational companies such as the company in the attached article must have a difficult job selecting the correct candidates to be an MOT tester. If they get it wrong then heads will certainly roll. So, as I have said as the business owner I am held  totally responsible for any wrong doing or Illegal practises by my MOT testers.

Importantly testers are operating under fair but strict rules. Therefore I find it impossible to get my head round the way that these important members of our staff are selected and also kept under control of these strict government guide lines.

So, this is probably why that every so often we read stories like this. Members of staff that just cant work within the rules. Consequently this Dishonest MOT testers, from Taunton were caught and prosecuted whilst working for Halfords.

I can only hope that these massive companies treat and pay their testers with the greatest of respect, as I do. Otherwise it will surely be big trouble for them!

clamps down on mot fraud, banned from mot testing, dvsa clamps down on mot, guidance to help stamp.

Taunton-based Dishonest MOT testers have admitted issuing 31 MOT certificates without carrying out the required checks. Anton Keith Fricker pleaded guilty to 31 counts when he appeared at Taunton Magistrates’ Courts on July 13 following a

Source: Halfords MOT tester admits issuing 31 fraudulent certificates

Insane MOT Test Proposals

MOT backlog peaking in October

MOT backlog peaking in October

MOT backlog peaking in October
MOT backlog peaking in October

MOT backlog peaking in October

So, this graph shows the expected peak when motorists will have to have their cars MOT tested. Along with these cars will be the ones that are due for testing after the August 1st deadline. Crucially, this will mean a very busy time for testing stations to cope with the huge expected influx. Of course, it is not only the tests but also the work that has to be done once a car fails.

I suspect we will have to add a temporary extra day to cope. With the expected spike in extra MOT failure work,. Looking back, it all seems a bit crazy, and in my opinion, the MOT exemptions had no need to take place. In fact, many drivers are still having their vehicles tested. Importantly, it is still up to the car owner to make sure the car is roadworthy.

Insurance companies will be reluctant to pay out if an accident occurs and the car is found not to be roadworthy. MOT backlog peaking in October

Here at Pellon Autocentre, we will continue to encourage our customers to have their tests done by the due date. Firstly, as I have just said, it is their duty of care to make sure the car is in a good state of repair. such things as tyres are kept in line. However, I have an air of excitement now. So I can’t wait for some catching up to be done! especially after weeks of staff furloughing ?

Eric Roberts

The number of MOT tests is set for a dramatic increase following a return to mandatory testing on 1 August, DVSA data seen by Garage Wire shows. The number of tests is expected to overtake pre-exemption

Source: MOT backlog to peak in October, DVSA data suggests – Garagewire

Two Year MOT Tests

Two-Year MOT Tests

Two-Year MOT Tests
Two-Year MOT Tests

Two-Year MOT Tests

So this is about the wrangling that continues about our MP’s trying to convert the MOT testing gap to two years. Utterly stupid, in my opinion! These MP’s should visit testing stations to see how a modern-day car can deteriorate over the current one-year period. So, two years would just mean many more dangerous cars on our roads.

However, as this attached article states, the motor industry are fighting to knock this stupid idea on the head. I drive for my business and often depart at 4.30 in the morning. The roads are very busy and in my opinion, we are heading for a complete 24-hour period of heavy traffic.

Ask any truck driver!

No longer can you drive in the UK through the night to try to avoid heavy traffic. It is with us now. So testing cars over a two-year period is a no-brainer, and the idea should be scrapped immediately for safety’s sake alone.

Along with this article, I can only hope that the recent conservative re-shuffle will kill the two-year MOT tests stone dead and that common sense prevails.

Two-Year MOT Tests
Two-Year MOT Tests

The MOT test is an annual safety inspection that is mandatory

for all vehicles in the United Kingdom that are older than three years. Ensuring that vehicles on the road are in good condition and do not endanger other road users is of the utmost importance. The proposal to transition this to a biennial inspection was made in an effort to alleviate financial strains on drivers and decrease the operational burden on garages. It seems reasonable in theory, correct?

Nonetheless, this is not a novel concept. Similar suggestions have occasionally surfaced, frequently in an effort to cut costs and streamline operations. Recently, a number of members of parliament have revisited the notion, arguing that it might save motorists a little bit of fuel. However, it is not devoid of controversy.

Contrarians express significant apprehensions. Two-Year MOT Tests

regarding the implications for road safety and the environment. They believe that extending the time between inspections could result in a greater number of high-octane vehicles with underlying problems such as worn tyres or faulty brakes travelling around. This has the potential to increase accident rates and potentially impact air quality if emissions are not routinely inspected.

Safety experts and the automotive industry have had a somewhat divided reaction.

While there are individuals who believe that modern vehicles, which are indeed improving in dependability, may not require such frequent inspections, others emphasise the critical nature of routine surveillance in ensuring public safety. It is a timeless struggle between savings and safety, and striking the proper balance is no easy task.

The proposal has not been implemented as of yet. Two-Year MOT Tests

It appears to be in a “let’s think this through” phase as opposed to “full steam ahead.” The government must diligently assess the potential advantages in relation to the potential drawbacks. Before finalising a change, they would also be required to consult with a variety of stakeholders, including automobile associations and road safety charities.

It appears that the concept is currently being deliberated and has not yet been finalised. It is uncertain whether this will transition to a higher frequency or remain at rest. Any change to something as critical as the MOT testing regime, however, will undoubtedly require careful consideration in order to ensure the safety of all road users.

Source: UK aftermarket lobbying intensifies

Insane MOT Test Proposals

Independent garages lead MOT testing

Independent garages lead MOT testing

Independent garages lead MOT testing

Independent garages lead MOT testing
Independent garages lead MOT testing

The Reasons Independent Garages Are Preferable to Bigger Garage Companies in the UK for MOT Tests

Greetings, fellow admirers of automobiles! Let’s discuss something personal today: the MOT test. We are all aware that maintaining our cherished cars’ roadworthiness and safety is an annual ritual. But have you ever wondered why so many of us in the UK choose to take our cars to independent garages for this crucial check-up instead of the big-name chains? Let’s examine the factors that make many people choose our neighbourhood’s independent garages.

The Individual Touch-Independent garages lead MOT testing

The individual attention that independent garages provide is one of their main selling points. You’re not just another number when you visit a neighbourhood garage. The mechanics actually care about giving you excellent service; they frequently recall your car’s peculiarities and know you by name. This tailored approach is really beneficial, particularly for something as significant as a MOT exam.

Transparency and Trust

When it comes to car maintenance, trust is important. Transparency and trust have been the cornerstones of independent garages’ reputations. Local garages depend on word-of-mouth referrals and repeat business, unlike larger chains that could push pointless repairs or extras. They are more likely to provide you with an accurate estimate and reasonable prices, making sure you only pay for what is required to pass the MOT.

Encouragement of the Local Economy-Independent garages lead MOT testing

Selecting an independent garage also helps the community’s economy. Many of these garages are long-standing, family-run establishments that serve the neighbourhood. Purchasing locally promotes local companies, which in turn sustains employment locally and enhances the general well-being of the community. Everyone wins in this scenario!

Knowledge and Background

Independent garages frequently hire highly qualified and knowledgeable mechanics. With decades of experience in the field, many of these mechanics are well-versed in a wide range of makes and models. This knowledge is crucial for identifying and resolving problems that may come up during a MOT test. Additionally, they frequently take a more adaptable and creative approach, coming up with solutions that larger businesses might not have thought of.

Competitive Costing-Independent garages lead MOT testing

Let’s face it, most of us consider cost to be a major consideration. Prices for MOT tests and repairs are typically more competitively priced at independent garages. They can maintain lower costs since they don’t have the overhead associated with managing a massive chain, which is a huge benefit for customers. You receive excellent service without having to pay a premium fee.

Regional Expertise

Local garages are uniquely positioned to comprehend the particular conditions and difficulties of the region. For example, Halifax has its fair share of small alleys, high hills, and erratic weather. Local mechanics can offer guidance and services catered to our particular needs because they are knowledgeable about how these things effect cars. When it comes to making sure your automobile is ready for the MOT test and beyond, this local knowledge truly makes a difference.

Practicality and Adaptability

Booking your MOT test at a time that works for you is made easier by the more flexible scheduling choices that independent garages frequently provide. Compared to larger chains, they are typically more accommodating and recognise that life may be stressful. Your neighbourhood garage probably has the capacity to accommodate you without any issues, whether you require an early morning appointment or a late afternoon one.

Establishing Connections-Independent garages lead MOT testing

You establish a rapport with your neighbourhood garage over time. You get to know them, and they get to know you and your car. It’s difficult to find trust and dependability in larger chains, but these relationships promote them. It’s consoling to know that your mechanic actually wants the best for both your safety and the operation of your vehicle.

Independent garages lead MOT testing
Independent garages lead MOT testing

Final Thoughts

In summary, independent garages provide a degree of individualised care, credibility, knowledge, and neighbourhood support that larger chains are unable to match. Many people choose them for MOT tests because of their flexible scheduling, affordable prices, and local expertise. So why not give your neighbourhood garage a try the next time your car is scheduled for a MOT? You’ll receive excellent service while also contributing to your community.

Let’s keep our local companies prospering and our cars roadworthy!

So, MOT testing has cleared the backlog caused by the pandemic, and we are now testing at a level that is comparable to post-pandemic figures. Of course, it is not all over yet, but as a garage and MOT station, we are all safe and happy to see all our customers again.

This is a great article. Hence, and only emphasises the reason why many small garages are doing so well. Nonetheless, we should keep up with our high standards of customer service. Of course, we would be nothing if it was not for our staff. Staff and training are in my opinion, one of the most important factors. Thus of running a busy successful garage business.

Indeed, without good, reliable staff, you may as well forget it. For this reason, our customers return time and time again. Please read the article; it is filled with many interesting facts about your local independent garage. To be a successful MOT centre, honesty is the key word.

Eric Roberts

Source: Independent garages lead in MOT testing

Another interesting MOT testing article about a dishonest tester working for Halfords.