Reaction to proposed MOT system changes
The Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) will fight any proposals to extend the MOT test frequency, following an announcement by the Department for Transport (DfT) to launch a public consultation on the future of MOTs in Great Britain.
Any increase in the first test frequency will see the number of defective vehicles on UK roads rise, which could also lead to more road accidents and fatalities, says IAAF.
As for advancements in technology, MOT failures are disproportionately high for electric vehicles when they are first tested at three years.
Additionally, there will not be any official mileage or emissions checks recorded until after four years.
Evidence also shows MOT and servicing is often done at the same time as each other, so a reduction in test frequency means a reduction in servicing, further separating a motorist’s responsibility on a vehicle’s roadworthiness.
Delaying vehicle inspections may lead to higher repair costs for motorists who may not know that dangerous faults are developing with their vehicles.
Despite advancements in vehicle technology, there is no evidence to support suggestions that modern vehicles are less likely to suffer from wear and tear and safety-related defects. And, with safety critical items, such as tyres and brakes, still the main cause for MOT failures, any extension is extremely concerning.
Mark Field, IAAF chief executive, said: “The DfT has put forward no credible argument for changing the MOT first test from three years to four years. It’s bad for the motorist, the environment, the public and motor industry and we will fight any measures that threaten road safety.”
Following today’s launch of the Department for Transport’s (DfT) consultation on proposed changes to the MOT, the Independent Garage Association (IGA) will be carrying out a full impact assessment of the proposed changes and will be consulting with its members and the wider industry to ensure that full, robust and representative feedback is provided in response.
Stuart James, IGA Chief Executive comments: “The MOT has been in the government’s spotlight for some time and the IGA were expecting a review of this type, however the far-reaching nature of the consultation announced this morning goes deeper and wider than anticipated. A common-sense approach to the consultation will be needed, with road safety being of paramount importance above gaining votes in the next election.
“Vehicles are becoming more complex and the environmental impact of road transport plays an ever-increasing role in the UK Government’s commitment to Net Zero. While the number of plug-in hybrids and electric vehicles on the road relates to less than 2.5% of all vehicles on the road [1], it is inevitable that the MOT will need to adapt to provide a 21st-century solution to these challenges.
“The MOT plays a vital part in keeping the UK’s roads amongst the safest in the world, and the IGA will work closely with the government to safeguard this record and ensure a fair, viable and safe future for the MOT system which protects all road users.”
Sue Robinson, Chief Executive of the National Franchised Dealers Association (NFDA) which represents car and commercial retailers across the UK commented:
“The primary aspect to consider when proposing changes to the MOT system is the safety of motorists as a result of vehicle defects. With advancements in technology and testing, cars and commercials are increasingly becoming safer off the production line, particularly with components such as autonomous emergency braking systems becoming more widely adopted. It is critical that the MOT system evolves and adapts in tandem with the rapidly developing technology used in automotive vehicles today.
“Nevertheless, NFDA is concerned that these changes to the system may not be beneficial for motorists or MOT testing centres, particularly for franchised dealers, to justify the changes and we will be conducting a thorough investigation into the implications these changes may have. Franchise dealers will continue to ensure motorists on UK roads are as safe as possible through robust, professionally executed and frequent MOT testing regimes. NFDA will be responding to the consultation in due course, as well as keeping correspondence with the relevant government bodies to ensure future MOTs are conducted in a safe and fair manner.”
Karen Rotberg, Co-founder of BookMyGarage.com, said: “The fact the Government is pitching these proposed changes as a way to save motorists money is farcical. On average, drivers pay £35.52 for an MOT test booked through our website – that’s less than the cost of half a tank of petrol in a typical family car. The reality is that most motorists prioritise safety over costs and the price of an MOT is only a tiny part of the overall bill that drivers face.
“We do of course welcome any measures that can help motorists to save money – especially during a cost-of-living crisis – but any proposal which risks compromising on vehicle safety is not a solution. Increasing the interval between MOT tests puts greater onus on the driver to ensure their vehicle is in safe and roadworthy condition at all times, and we know from our research that not all motorists feel confident carrying out checks themselves.”
A BookMyGarage.com survey of 2,000 motorists also showed 27% of motorists never check the condition of their tyres and 58% don’t check to see if lights are working.
“Remember, even if a vehicle has a valid MOT certificate, driving a vehicle with a dangerous defect can land the driver with fines, penalty points and even invalidate their insurance. For example, a defective tyre can result in a fine of up to £2,500 and three penalty points for each illegal tyre.
“We recognise that these are challenging times for many people, but we can help drivers save money on their MOT tests, servicing and repairs by making it easy to compare prices from local, trusted garages.”