• MOTs are not just about road tax: They are a vital check to ensure your vehicle’s safety on the road. • Failure to comply can result in a wide range of serious consequences, including fines, court action, and even having your vehicle clamped or impounded. • Drivers who take to the roads in a vehicle that has not passed an inspection in the past 12 months could face a fine of up to £1,000, with models deemed unroadworthy netting a penalty of £2,500. A valid MOT is a requirement for all road-going vehicles aged between three and 40 years old, and drivers who fail to have their vehicle inspected in a 12-month period may be liable to pay a fine of up to £1,000. The penalty for vehicles deemed unroadworthy can be as high as £2,500. In addition to the financial implications, drivers who use a vehicle that has not been properly inspected by a professional could be putting themselves and other road users at risk. The inspection includes a range of safety checks, such as:

These safety checks are essential to ensure the brakes are working properly, as faulty brakes can be a serious hazard on the road. The inspection will also help drivers be aware of any minor defects that should be put right before the next MOT, helping them rectify small faults before they can develop into expensive repair bills. For instance, if the mechanic finds worn-out brake pads, the driver will be advised to replace them before the next MOT. ClickMechanic’s CEO, Andrew Jervis, warned that drivers who skip their MOT or refuse to pay for a retest may also be unable to get their vehicle taxed. As a result, drivers who skip the test could soon find themselves shelling out a staggering £4,000. Andrew Jervis, CEO of ClickMechanic, highlighted the dangers of drivers skipping their MOTs, saying: “We often see drivers fall into a tricky situation where their car fails its MOT, they put off repairs, and suddenly, they’re driving without tax, too. “It’s an easy trap to fall into, but the consequences are serious: fines, court action, and even having your vehicle clamped or impounded. As a result, it’s crucial for drivers to stay on top of their tax and MOTs.”
The use of AI-powered cameras with number plate recognition has made it easier for authorities to detect drivers who are not complying with the rules. These cameras can track down offenders near-instantly, making it more important than ever for motorists to stay on top of their tax and MOTs. However, the benefits of an MOT go beyond just avoiding fines and penalties. It also provides an opportunity for drivers to identify and rectify minor defects that could develop into costly repair bills. For instance, if the mechanic finds worn-out brake pads, the driver can replace them before the next MOT, preventing the need for expensive repairs down the line. In conclusion, an MOT is not just a requirement for road tax; it’s a vital check to ensure your vehicle’s safety on the road. Drivers should stay on top of their tax and MOTs to avoid the serious consequences of fines, court action, and having your vehicle clamped or impounded. By staying proactive and addressing any minor defects, drivers can avoid costly repairs and ensure their vehicle remains safe on the road.