What should I do if my car fails its MOT?

Finding out your car or van has failed an MOT can be inconvenient, but it is not the end of the world. Here are some steps to follow to help you get your vehicle back on the road as quickly as possible.

Your car or van will fail the MOT test if the results list ‘dangerous’ or ‘major’ problems with your vehicle.

1. Understand the failure certificate.

When your car fails its MOT, you’ll receive a failure certificate detailing the reasons for failure. This document lists the reasons your car failed, but it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed by the language used. Many people don’t understand the technical terms used in MOT reports, so don’t hesitate to ask the garage to explain the issues in simpler terms.

The issues will be categorised as:

• Dangerous defects: These issues must be fixed before driving the car, as it’s illegal and unsafe to use it in this condition.
• Major defects: These faults need to be repaired, but you can usually drive the car away unless otherwise stated.
• Advisory Notes: These aren’t failures but indicate problems that may need attention soon.

Take time to review the certificate carefully to understand what’s required. If anything is unclear, an honest garage will always be happy to walk you through what the faults mean and how they can be resolved.

2. Decide What to Do Next

After understanding the reasons for the failure, you should request a quote for the repairs. You can then decide whether you will:

a) Repair the Car at the Same MOT Centre

The simplest option would be to authorise the MOT centre to carry out the repairs, providing they are able to carry out the MOT repairs as required.

b)Repair the Car Elsewhere

You can choose to have the repairs done at another garage. However, it is important to be mindful that driving a car with “dangerous” faults is illegal.

c) Consider Not Repairing the Vehicle

Sometimes, the cost of repairs can exceed the value of the vehicle, especially for older cars. In such cases, it might make more sense to explore other options such as selling or scrapping the car.

An honest garage should tell you if they think repairs aren’t financially worthwhile, so don’t hesitate to ask for their opinion.

3. Retest Your Vehicle

Once repairs are complete, you’ll need a valid MOT certificate. The process varies depending on where repairs are carried out:

• Partial Retest: If repairs are done within 10 working days of the failure certificate, the original MOT test centre will carry out a retest free of charge, regardless of whether they carried out the repairs or not.
• Full Retest: Repairs done elsewhere or delays beyond 10 days often require a full MOT retest, which typically involves paying the full test fee again.

Can You Drive Your Car After It Fails?

Your ability to drive depends on the faults listed:

• Dangerous Faults: It is illegal to drive a car under any circumstances. It must remain off the road until repaired.
• Major Faults: If your previous MOT is still valid, you may drive the car to a repair facility or home, provided it’s safe to do so.

Driving with dangerous faults or without a valid MOT can result in penalties, fines, or voided insurance.

It is important to note that you can be fined up to £2,500, be banned from driving and get 3 penalty points for driving a vehicle that has failed its MOT because of a ‘dangerous’ problem.

Failing an MOT can feel overwhelming, but it’s a manageable process. Take time to understand the failure report (with help if needed), decide the best course of action for repairs or disposal, and get your retest sorted. Whether you repair, retest, or replace your vehicle, the important thing is to act responsibly and prioritise safety.

Rebecca Shaikly | Tuesday 26 November 2024