All MOT Matters

All MOT Matters

Annual MOT Testing

Annual MOT Testing

Annual MOT Testing
Annual MOT Testing

Annual MOT Testing

Happily, as I have said before, this is a great time to be involved in the auto trade. Of course, as the owner of a successful auto centre. Then we take every day as it comes.  Consequently, apart from the work that we have booked in for that day. So, we had a run of cars that were all affected by “pothole” damage.

So, the first car was a Ford Fiesta !

Suffering from a broken coil spring . Caused by running into a pothole ! Incredibly, the second was a Vauxhall Corsa, with yet another broken coil spring . Unluckily, the spring had also penetrated the front tyre ! Once again, caused by hitting a pothole !

Thirdly, the damaged car was a VW Sirocco that hit a pothole and bent his steering arm. Urgently, we managed to fit these cars in between our car services. Consequently, those were already booked in . Happily for the customers, we managed to carry out the repairs, and we all had a good day !

After lunch, we had another bit of excitement for me. Annual MOT Testing

Unbeknownst to me, we had two vintage cars booked in for their annual MOT tests. Significantly, the first car was a regular one for us. So, it was a Rolls Royce tourer. It had a 5.6-litre engine and was built in 1936. Of course, the car easily passed the test.

Apart from a brake switch light, which we repaired on site. The company that owns the vehicle always gives their car a pre-MOT test. Of course, before it is brought into us for the MOT test. But the brake light switch must have been overlooked.

The second car that turned up was a black A35 Austin saloon.

It was manufactured in 1958 (I was ten years old then Respectfully, the great, great aunt of the woman who now owns the car was the previous owner.r ?

So, the aunt passed the car on to her niece, who later died. Subsequently, the car was then passed onto her niece, who is the current owner. Incredibly, the car was last serviced in 1990. Having only done 2000 miles, (it was then used to tootle around town. The car has a 948-cc engine

with drums on the front brakes. Including an old-fashioned rod braking system at the rear.

The car was then mothballed for the last ten days in a barn- Annual MOT Testing

So the latest in a line of nieces decided to bring it out and restore the car. She asked for the service of a local mechanic, who looked at the car to assess its condition. Incredibly, the  car only required a new battery and started up the first time. Urgently, the brakes needed some work done on them! Then he handed the car over to us for its MOT test. Lastly, the brakes were sorted using parts from an old MG Midget. Pleasantly, the engine was in immaculate condition and had only done 6,000 miles.

Passed mot test with flying colours

The old Austin had a new 063 ApolloPower battery fitted and passed the mot test in tip-top condition apart from some very slight corrosion I will see it driving up and down the street of Halifax here in West Yorkshire, UK this summer. I just love these cars with a bit of history and a story behind them. The A35 was also fitted with cross-ply tyres to the front and radials to the back.

Banned MOT Garages to be Exposed

Banned MOT Garages to be Exposed

MOT Inspection Manual Renewed
MOT Inspection Manual Renewed

Banned MOT Garages to be Exposed

DVSA have agreed with Ministers to make the information publicly available following the announcement by Justine Greening MP in 2012, of the Governments’ commitment to the Garage Customer Experience.

EricRoberts‘s insight:

MOT Garages testing station, owners opinion

So, as the owner of an MOT centre, I am not sure what this will achieve. Consequently, I know that there are thousands of normal garages. Strangely, they claim that they do MOT testing. Incredibly, but in fact do not. What they do is take their customers cars to an approved MOT  testing station. Consequently, having what we call “a trade test” carried out.

Of course, I am not saying that the car will not be tested correctly? But the garage does not conduct the test, and they do not have control over the vehicle.However, if the driver has an issue, he can not take it up directly with the testing station.

Customers should look out for the official MOT testing sign, Banned MOT Garages to be Exposed

Concerned car owners should look out for an official MOT sign ! Usually outside the garage premises at the roadside. So it looks the same as the one in the above image. Some garages have lookalike signs but are not official testing stations.

I can only think that garages that have lost their licence: Banned MOT Garages to be Exposed

So, to test cars because of a bad disciplinary record, still carry on taking cars in for testing but have a trade test done at another official testing station under the pretence that they still have a testing licence, or simply do not remove their MOT Garages signs as if they are still testing.

A list of banned testing sites will be published but i wonder who will read them?.

Hi I would like to introduce myself. I have been working in the garage, tyre, and battery business for 40 years. So. I worked for a couple of national tyre companies before starting my first business. Of course, I now own a company here in the UK called Pellon Tyre and Auto-centre. Blogging about anything to do with cars and their related products. Naturally, that will help my business

1 in 10 thinks the MOT test is only an OPTION?

1 in 10 thinks the MOT test is only an OPTION?

1 in 10 thinks the MOT test is only an OPTION?
1 in 10 thinks the MOT test is only an OPTION?

1 in 10 thinks the MOT test is only an OPTION?

Millions of UK motorists are clueless

about the legal requirement for MOT test, insurance, and road tax (Mot’s only cover approx 20% of your car being checked, but servicing covers approx. 70%, as I was told when I last…

As the owner of an MOT test station. 1 in 10 thinks the MOT test is only an OPTION?

Of course, I do believe these figures from the excellent Auto Express magazine. Significantly, this article makes for interesting reading ! Stating that 10% of UK motorists . Many car owners do not know that the MOT test is compulsory ! Importantly,  on cars that are over three years old,.

The British government is computerising the vehicle system. Including the whole system of car insurance and road tax, along with the DVLA MOT Rules. In my opinion, they would be better off aligning the three systems. This, of course, would make it much easier to regulate and also easier for vehicle owners to use.

1 in 10 thinks the MOT test is only an OPTION?
1 in 10 thinks the MOT test is only an OPTION?

So, it is impossible to have one thing without the other ! 1 in 10 thinks the MOT test is only an OPTION?

Of course, at the moment, they are not aligned . Incredibly, you could have a car insured without an MOT test. In my opinion, this will be the government’s aim. Because at the end of this year, the road tax disc will be abolished and the system will go online. To make it easier for UK motorists, the List of New MOT Rules and  details will probably have to be entered along with the insurance details. Thus tightening up on the whole system, which is at the moment flawed.

Today, in 2024, this will have all been implemented. 1 in 10 thinks the MOT test is only an OPTION?

Therefore, no UK vehicles have to show a tax disc ! Vehicle data is all computerised and also available at any time for police officers to check.

Hi I would like to introduce myself. Working in the Garage and tyre and Battery business now for 45 years. So. Working for a couple of national tyre companies before starting my first business. Of course, I now own a company here in the UK called Pellon Tyre and Auto-centre. Blogging about anything to do with cars and their related products. Naturally, that will help my business.

See on www.autoexpress.co.uk

MOT Inspection Manual Renewed

MOT Inspection Manual Renewed

MOT Inspection Manual Renewed
MOT Inspection Manual Renewed

MOT Inspection Manual Renewed

In my mind, then, this falls in line with another aspect of the MOT testing scene

Last week, the transport minister announced the scrapping of the first MOT test for cars of 4 years old.

As the owner of a testing station in Halifax, UK. This would have been a huge mistake. As a result the current 3 year spell will be resurrected from the scrap heap. Common sense and a lot of pressure from the garage industry showed the government what a mistake it would have been to implement the four year gap from new to the first test.

The second part of this article

is about the introduction of a new MOT inspection manual. One of the implementations will be to to change the classification of a car’s defects so that they’re rated as dangerous, major, or minor.

This of course is one of those improvement that in my opinion existed on the old system. Just that the words have changed?

On this new system then the Minor is the same as the “old advisory” The major and the dangerous are both fails. The difference is that the dangerous part of fail is explained to the customer who will be warned that the car is too dangerous to drive away.

MOT Inspection Manual Renewed, some parts confuse me

The “dangerous part of the failure was also available on the old system that will be replaced. So, it just looks like the swapping of words. When talking to Ryan Linton, my MOT tester, about the changes, I became confused. We both agree that it did not seem like anything was wrong with the old part of the system with the old classes of mot reporting

It was either  pass or fail.

With the option to list the car as dangerous, which could be explained to the customer. As the tester, an explanation for the dangerous would be given to the customer. In my simple mind, then, the new system looks confusing. Like anything else, though, I suppose we will get used to it and everything will fall into place.

To finalise a great blog to explain all this, the “matters of testing” blog is worth a look at this subject.

The DVSA is to introduce its new MOT inspection manual for class 3, 4, 5 and 7 vehicles to reflect changes to the MOT test which will be introduced in May 2018. The new manual, which must

Source: New MOT inspection manual to be introduced in May to reflect testing service changes – Garagewire

Dodgy MOT fraud crackdown

Dodgy MOT fraud crackdown

Dodgy MOT fraud crackdown
Dodgy MOT fraud crackdown

Dodgy MOT fraud crackdown

As the owner of a UK MOT testing station.

Then I just fail to understand the number of MOT stations that have been shut down for fraudulent activities. According to the attached article, there are 143 testing stations. Of one type or another have had there testing facilities removed. Consequently, I am not able to carry out any more MOT tests.

The public is now able to report stations that they feel are not truthful in one way or another. Probably leading to more investigations. The end result was a station losing its MOT testing status. The mind boggles when you realise the importance of such a great system for testing vehicle safety here in the UK.

I believe that we have to be totally honest with both the DVSA and the public who bring their vehicles to us for a honest and reliable MOT test. We do hear of horror stories coming from customers with a long list of improper failures after a test on their cars.

Could things get worse !

What frightens me the fact that we are heading in for an economic downturn. So putting pressure on people to fail cars for the sake of more income. I have been in this industry for 50 years or so now and seen all this kind of thing before.

Larger companies with massive overheads will be under even more pressure to increase their sales and profit margins. Recently, a good friend of mine decided that he had enough sales pressure from the large garage network that he worked for.

Encouraging the workers below him to report car faults that did not exist.

He did not mention specific MOT jobs but you could not rule this out. Customers were told that things needed replacing when they were perfectly fine. We have all heard of this, yet the companies keep on trading when the little guys get hit.

Finally, as long as we keep up our good reputation,

for honesty when testing cars and doing everyday servicing work, then to hell with the rest. We will not be involved in any dodgy MOT fraud crackdown.

Dodgy MOT fraud crackdown
Dodgy MOT fraud crackdown

The DVSA has published its annual report, outlining its 2020-2021 activities. Some 40,490,000 MOT certificates were issued from 2021-22, up from 38,790,000 in the previous period. Following on from the DVSA’s Beat the Rush campaign in 2020, the

Source: MOT fraud crackdown remains key focus for DVSA

MOT Test Tyre Failures

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!

MOT Horror Submissions

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?

MOT Testing Halifax

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. 

Financial support for independent garages

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

MOT Test Combined with Car Servicing

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.