The MOT could be changing, here’s how

The MOT sector has had a lot to contend with; the COVID pandemic and the repercussions of the MOT extension, a falling number of MOT testers and changes to how people in the sector make sure they’re on top of their skills. And now the government has launched a consultation on the annual test to consider what could be some drastic changes.

The Department for Transport wants views on updating MOT testing for cars, motorbikes and vans to ensure roadworthiness checks continue to balance costs on motorists while ensuring road safety, keeping up with advances in vehicle technology, and tackling vehicle emissions.

Ostensibly that sounds positive, but one of the biggest parts of the consultation is to guage the openness to changing the system so new vehicles don’t have to be tested until four years after they leave the dealer. It’s dressed up as a move that could save motorists money.

The DfT says: “The average MOT costs £40 and the move could save motorists across Great Britain around £100 million a year in MOT fees.” It’s a possibility that has brought mixed reactions.

Hayley Pells, Policy Manager at the IMI said: “The advances seen in automotive technology and systems, for improved performance and safety as well as reduced environmental impact, mean the current MOT model is well overdue for review.

“For example, autonomous emergency braking is now more widely adopted and it is critical that motorists have the confidence that these systems are working correctly.

“The question of MOT testing frequency is an important issue that has dominated conversation about testing for some time. What is important to ensure is that a focus on cost-saving does not put road users at heightened risk.”

The importance of making sure vehicles, and their occupants, remain safe no matter what changes are made to the MOT is echoed by Sue Robinson, Chief Executive of the National Franchised Dealers Association.

“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,” said Robinson.

But she also includes a note of caution: “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,” she said.

A four year interval for testing is already standard practice in a number of countries, including: including Belgium, Denmark, France, Italy, Spain, and Portugal.

While the government consultation has received a lot of coverage due to the timing of the first MOT for light vehicles, it’s also seeking views on other aspects of the test too.

Potential new measures include introducing testing for particulate number and NOx to ensure diesel, petrol and hybrid cars meet emissions requirements throughout their lifespan.

It’s also looking at proposals to spend more time testing electric vehicles’ batteries, hoping to improve the safety and reliability of EVs, as well as whether additional measures should be introduced to tackle excessively loud engines, and how the DVSA can continue to crack down against MOT and mileage fraud.

Have your say on the government’s MOT consultation and let them know your views