mot testing

mot testing

As the proud owner of an MOT testing station here in the UK. Then I must protest about these new proposals. I am sick of hearing about MP’s coming out with stupid ideas. The idea is that cars are now lasting longer. What a load of rubbish?

Tyres and brake parts do not last for four years. I think that the British MOT trade must protest. There must be a motoring body out there to represent us. Hence enabling us to launch a massive protest. Have our MP’s forgot about people power and Brexit? This would close many MOT centres down. Many of our businesses have been around for many years. Of course, not only that but what about all the money that we have had to pay out over the years. Especially, to keep up with the new directives and changes made over the years.

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

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

Audi TT Hand-Brake Failure

MOT tester fined

MOT tester fined

MOT tester fined
MOT tester fined

MOT tester fined

An MOT tester who issued false MOT certificates-MOT tester fined

at a Surrey garage was hit with a £1,300 fine and 200 hours of community service. On January 4, Benjamin Aaron Sinclair pleaded guilty in Guildford Magistrates Court to seven offences of fraud by false representation. I must confess that it must be a nightmare when this sort of thing happens in your garage and MOT centre.

Many years ago, I had to advertise for an MOT tester because the one I had left to go work was in a larger main dealer garage. The grass is always greener! The applicants were not what i was looking for. However, I managed to select one and crack on with the Testing.

At first, I thought he was trustworthy. However, we heard a couple of rumours from people in the trade and discovered otherwise. he was as crafty as a fox. However, we managed to catch him fiddling a non-MOT item and was dismissed immediately.

Since then, I have always trained my MOT testers and promoted within. Ryan Linton and Dale Linton are my long-term testers. Alternating the testing with other management skills.

While employed by Godalming Garage Ltd in Godalming, Surrey,-MOT tester fined

The tester was accused of granting MOT certificates to seven vehicles without executing a test in order to profit financially. The offences happened last year between February 18 and April 6. I am amazed at these people thinking that they can get away with these things. MOT testers are very well monitored at all times. Both by the ministry and also in-house, as in this case at Godalming garage.

Magistrates also ordered Sinclair to pay £1,300 in costs and a £95 surcharge for victim services, along with 200 hours of unpaid labour to be completed within the next 12 months. GW Podcast: Appreciating the influence of data from the garage workshop
The DVSA registered 1,324 incidents of MOT Fraud between 2021 and 2022. Out of these, 351 cases in 2017 and 710 in 2018 were the most serious cases, including dishonesty and negligence, representing a considerable increase.

The DVSA has the authority to prevent anyone from taking tests.-MOT tester fined

This, to me, is the worst part. This type of thing brings shame to your garage, just for a few extra pounds in your pocket. MOT testers are hard to find these days. So, there is no need to try to fiddle your employee’s out of a few pounds. However, some people are like that and are never satisfied with whatever pay they get at the end of the week.

288 authorised examiners were barred from the MOT programme- MOT tester fined

in 2021, and a total of 127 authorised examiners were prohibited from operating Vehicle Testing Stations.

This includes suspensions for 185 tester cases and 85 authorised examiner cases involving the most serious offences, like dishonesty and gross carelessness.

An MOT tester has been slapped with a £1,300 fine and 200 hours’ community service for issuing fraudulent MOT certificates at a Surrey garage. Benjamin Aaron Sinclair admitted seven counts of fraud by false representation at

Source: MOT tester fined £1,300 for issuing fraudulent certificates

Toyota Aygo Test Failure

Toyota Aygo Test Failure

Toyota Aygo Test Failure

Toyota Aygo Test Failure

MOT Failure:

Brake Pipe and Subframe Issues with a Toyota Aygo

A regular customer of ours, stopped by the garage the other day with his 2009 Toyota Aygo for its yearly MOT test. These little Aygos are quite well-liked, particularly in cities like ours where parking is limited and the streets are very narrow, making little compact cars the norm. However, this specific Aygo didn’t have the best luck throughout its test, so we had to break some unfortunate news, to the unluky owner.

The MOT Outcome

Regrettably, the Aygo’s MOT failed because of two serious problems: a rusted subframe hole and a damaged brake hose. Now, that might not seem like a big deal to those who aren’t familiar with automobile jargon, but if you ignore these issues, they can both be extremely deadly.

The Damaged Brake Pipe

The brake pipe is a crucial part of your braking system, carrying the brake fluid that aids in vehicle stopping. The pipes may rust with time, particularly with Halifax’s salty, rainy roads. In the instance of this Aygo, the brake pipe had entirely passed away. Given that the car wouldn’t stop correctly in an emergency, that is a red flag for any MOT.

Toyota Aygo Test Failure
Toyota Aygo Test Failure

The Rotted Substructure-Toyota Aygo Test Failure

Another serious problem is the rusting subframe. As a component of the car’s structure, the subframe supports the suspension, engine, and other vital components. Rust can eat away at it over time, particularly in older vehicles like this one. Upon closer inspection, we discovered a fairly concerning hole in this Aygo. Rust is more than just an aesthetic issue because a weakening subframe may compromise the car’s structural integrity.

The Correction-Toyota Aygo Test Failure

After a brief conversation, the owner acknowledged that both problems needed to be resolved right now. In order to restore the safety and functionality of the braking system, our experts restored the corroded brake pipe. It was a little more challenging with the subframe. After evaluating the damage, we determined that fixing the rusted region would be the best way to keep the Aygo safely on the road while still meeting MOT requirements.

Briefly Regarding the Toyota Aygo-Toyota Aygo Test Failure

For those who do not know, the Toyota Aygo is a fantastic small city car that has been in production since 2005. It is one of three vehicles—the other two being the Citroën C1 and Peugeot 107—that use the same platform. The Aygo, which was manufactured in the Czech Republic, has long been a choice among consumers seeking a reasonably priced, effective vehicle that can easily manage city driving.

The Aygo is a very well-liked option in Halifax and the surrounding areas, particularly for new drivers or those seeking for a second vehicle. It is quick, simple to park, and fuel-efficient. But as this tale demonstrates, even the most dependable vehicles require some maintenance as they get older. Frequent maintenance is essential, particularly in light of the harsh weather conditions in West Yorkshire that might damage an automobile’s undercarriage. Rust is a common enemy, be it from the continual drizzle or the sporadic snowy winters.

Toyota Aygo Test Failure
Aygo fitted with new brake pipes after MOT failure

The fact that Halifax seems to have history and charm around every corner is one of my favourite things about working here. One may easily forget that we are now working on modern cars like the Toyota Aygo when strolling through the tiny cobblestone alleys. However, the town’s lifeblood used to be iron, steel, and machinery, and we have a strong industrial background. When we go to the present day, it seems like a carryover of that history, albeit with cars of the modern era replacing the industries of the Victorian era.

The owner of this particular Aygo, a young man from the neighbourhood who grew up there, told how his grandfather used to work at one of the ancient mills, helping to make some of the tools that were exported all over the United Kingdom. It’s fascinating to observe how the town has changed from heavy industries to this kind of modern auto repair.

Finally

Ultimately, the purpose of MOT tests is to guarantee that our vehicles are safe and roadworthy. Failure is never nice, but it’s preferable to identify these problems early. A broken brake pipe and a rusty subframe could have ended a year or two of safe driving around Halifax, but after some repairs, this small Toyota Aygo was soon back on the road.

It serves as a helpful reminder for all of us to watch out for our cars, particularly as they age. Although the local roads and weather can be harsh, your car can last you for many years if you take proper care of it.

 

Insane MOT Test Proposals

MOT Test for White E-Type Jaguar

MOT Test for White E-Type Jaguar

MOT Test for White E-Type Jaguar
MOT Test for White E-Type Jaguar

MOT Test for White E-Type Jaguar

 

 Of course, it was a sad day when the government, in all their wisdom,

announced that Most vehicles manufactured or first registered over 40 years ago. Hence, will, as of May 20, 2018, be exempt from periodic testing unless they have been substantially changed.

This “substantially changed “part worried some owners at first. many of these cars have undergone some major changes. If parts weren’t available, specialised companies refabricated them.

However, owners fears were quashed-MOT Test for White E-Type Jaguar

when it was announced that their would have to be substantial changes to the chassis, running gear and engine capacity before the car was considered to be re-built in any way. Especially in the past 30 years of ownership.

According to the UK Government web site then the following changes would be fine- The following are considered acceptable (not substantial) changes if they fall into
these specific categories:
• changes that are made to preserve a vehicle, which in all cases must be when
original type parts are no longer reasonably available;
• changes of a type, that can be demonstrated to have been made when
vehicles of the type were in production or in general use (within ten years of
the end of production);
• in respect of axles and running gear changes made to improve efficiency,
safety or environmental performance;
• in respect of vehicles that have been commercial vehicles, changes which can
be demonstrated were being made when they were used commercially.

Of course, this clarified the worries and concerns from the owners of these cars. MOT Test for White E-Type Jaguar

Meanwhile, as it happens, we still get these vintage and classic cars presented for the annual MOT Test. The E-Type Jaguar in my images is a great example. This was the car that every teenager wanted back in the day. I was twenty years old when this car came out and boy did we want one. 

I believe that many of these cars have to be MOT tested for insurance purposes. Importantly, make sure that the car was road worthy or not. Anyhow, the white MOT Test for White E-Type Jaguar, had many admirers from my other customers on that day. Including myself?

Finally, here at Pellon MOT station we recommend Bridgestone tyres for your Jaguar car.

Insane MOT Test Proposals

Best MGB I Have Ever Seen

Best MGB I Have Ever Seen

Best MGB I Have Ever Seen

I could not believe my eyes when we were presented with this beautiful MGB sport car for its MOT test. So, I am just going to show the images that we took so that you can see for yourself how nice this car is.

The MGB was a very sought-after car in the sixties and seventies

In my opinion was one of the signs that you were doing better in life if you owned one, I had the poor relation the MG Midget. I remember working for a Dunlop tyres subsidiary at the time and the MG was fitted with 165×14 Mainly Pirelli Cinturato textile radials. The guys who owned them (it was a man’s car and not many females owned one) were mainly self-employed builders and architects, this was the car for them.

Of course, the fascinating thing to me is. So, out of the 387,000 cars produced, 90% were sold in America. Consequently, they were as popular as they were in the UK. Subsequently, these cars were built from 1962 until the last car in 1980. Hence, the first MGB GT versions rolled off the production line in 1965. As a result, by the end, over 125,000 of these splendid cars had been built. Of course, with about a third going for export.

The MGB became the world’s top-selling sports car: Best MGB I Have Ever Seen

Selling well over half a million cars. Therefore, it was the bestselling British sports car of all time. So, by this time, the cars were fitted with more of the Dunlop tyre products. Working for a Dunlop subsidiary. Thus, we had more and more of these excellent sports cars entering our auto centre. Of course, for tyres and car servicing.

Over the years, the MGB has retained its popularity. Even now, in 2014, there are many companies making and selling spare parts. You can even buy full-body shells. Hence, full-body shells were launched by British Motor Heritage back in 1988. Lastly, the shell was also used to produce the MG RV 8 in 1992.

The Rise and Fall of the MGB Sports Car in the UK Introduction:

 Picture yourself cruising down the picturesque British countryside in a classic sports car, the wind tousling your hair as you take in the scenic beauty. Chances are, the image that comes to mind might be that of the iconic MGB sports car. In this article, we’ll take a journey through time to explore the rise and fall of the MGB sports car in the United Kingdom, blending in a bit of local flavour to keep things interesting.

The Rise:

 The 1960s were an exciting time for the British automotive industry, and the MGB played a pivotal role in this era of motoring history. Introduced in 1962 by the British automaker MG (Morris Garages), the MGB quickly became a symbol of British sports car excellence.

 Its sleek and timeless design, featuring those iconic chrome bumpers, captured the hearts of many. Local Touch: The MGB was a common sight on the roads of the UK during the ’60s and ’70s. It became a symbol of British motoring prowess and was embraced by car enthusiasts from all corners of the country.

The Popularity Soars:

 The MGB’s appeal extended far beyond the UK’s borders. It found itself a fan base across the globe, making it a popular export. Its combination of affordability, style, and performance made it a true contender in the sports car market.

 Local Touch: Many MGBs were exported to the United States, where they found an eager audience, further boosting their popularity. The Fall: However, as time marched on, the MGB faced challenges that eventually led to its decline.

 Emission Regulations: In the 1970s, stricter emission regulations came into play, which posed a challenge for the MGB’s older engine technology. Modifications were needed to meet these new standards, and it affected the car’s performance. Local Touch: The UK also implemented these regulations, affecting the MGBs that remained on British roads.

 Competition: Best MGB I Have Ever Seen

The sports car market became increasingly competitive, with new entrants offering modern features and designs. The MGB, with its classic charm, struggled to keep up. Local Touch:

 British car enthusiasts had more options to choose from, including foreign competitors. Financial Woes: MG faced financial troubles and changing ownership, which impacted the company’s ability to invest in updating the MGB. Local Touch:

 The uncertainty around the brand’s future affected the confidence of UK buyers. Conclusion: The rise and fall of the MGB sports car in the UK is a tale of a beloved classic facing the winds of change. While the

MGB’s production eventually came to an end in 1980, Best MGB I Have Ever Seen

 its legacy lives on in the hearts of car enthusiasts, both in the UK and around the world. Local Touch: Today, you can still spot a well-maintained MGB on the roads of the UK, especially at classic car shows and local gatherings.

It’s a reminder of a bygone era of British motoring that will forever hold a special place in our hearts. So, as you take that imaginary ride through the British countryside, remember the MGB, a timeless icon of the UK’s automotive heritage.

Consequently, the technical details are as follows:

Tyres size: 165×14 and later 185x60x14 or 15 inch with alloys

 Engine: 4 cylinder in line

 Capacity: 1,798 cc

Bore & Stroke: 80.26mm x 88.9mm

Valve operation: overhead operated by tappets, push-rods, and rockers.

No of bearings: 5 main

Power output: 97 bhp at 5,500 rpm

Maximum torque: 105lb/ft at 2,500 rpm

Compression ratio: 9.0:1

Carburation: Twin SU’s

Clutch: Single dry plate

Suspension: front; coil and wishbone; rear; live axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs.

Dampers: Armstrong lever arm front & rear

Steering: Rack and pinion

Brakes: hydraulic with servo assistance. Front; 10.75″ dia disc. Rear; 10″ dia drum

Maximum speed: 104 mph

Acceleration: 0-60 mph: 13.0 secs

Fuel consumption: 25 mpg.

Of course, the facts were courtesy of …mgownersclub.co.uk/mgb-gt

.

Motorists Cant Afford Next MOT

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

Second-hand tyres

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

Insane MOT Test Proposals

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

Independent garages lead MOT testing

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.