MOT Retest Terms and Conditions
MOT retests – What to do if your car fails its MOT
If your vehicle fails an MOT test, then it must be repaired and retested prior to a valid certificate being issued, in accordance with VOSA guidelines:-
Where a vehicle fails the MOT and is left with the testing station to repair no retest fee is chargeable.
- If the vehicle is removed from the garage and presented back within 10 working days then a retest needs be undertaken for which a fee is chargeable equal to half of the initial VOSA MOT test fee charged.
- In all other cases a full MOT test is required and will be charged at the prevailing rate of the garage.
- Unfortunately if your vehicle fails a retest then the vehicle will have to have a full MOT test when presented again.
What if I don't agree?
You have the right to appeal if your vehicle fails the MOT test. You will need to ask us for a VT17 form. We will give you our full assistance in helping you fill the form should you require it.
Please note you should not have your vehicle repaired before the appeal is considered as any change may affect the outcome of the appeal. If your appeal is successful the fee or part of it will be returned back to you.
Mot retests – What to do if your car fails its MOT
If your car fails its MOT, it’s essential to take immediate action to address the issues and get your vehicle back on the road safely. First, the failure report provided by the testing centre must be reviewed to understand the reasons for the failure. This report will highlight the specific areas that need attention.
You have several options for completing the repairs: use the testing centre’s repair services, select a trusted independent garage or mechanic, or perform the repairs yourself if you’re qualified and confident. Gather quotes from multiple sources and compare prices to ensure a fair deal.
Once the repairs are complete, re-submit your vehicle for an MOT re-test. If your vehicle passes, you’ll receive a new MOT certificate. Remember to retain documentation of the failure report, repair invoices, and the latest MOT certificate for future reference.
If you have the repair work carried out at the the same garage you had your MOT tested then you should not be charged for a retest aslong as you vehicle hasn’t left the testing centre int he interim.
Regular maintenance can help prevent MOT failures, so consider addressing advisory items (non-failure items) to avoid future issues. If your vehicle fails on multiple items, it may be more cost-effective to address all issues simultaneously.
If you vehicle has failed it’s MOT, you can only drive your car if you’re taking it to a repair garage or a pre-booked MOT re-test. Driving a car with a failed MOT can result in a fine of up to £1,000, and you may even face prosecution.
What to do if your car fails its MOT – the MOT retest procedure
 If your car fails its MOT, it’s essential to understand the retest procedure to get your vehicle back on the road safely and efficiently. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:
After the Initial Failure
When your car fails its MOT, the testing centre will provide a failure report outlining its reasons. Take time to review this report carefully, as it will help you understand what needs to be repaired or replaced.
Choosing a Repair Option
You have several options for completing the necessary repairs:
- Use the testing centre’s repair services (if available)
- Select a trusted independent garage or mechanic
- Perform the repairs yourself (if qualified and confident)
Regardless of which option you choose, ensure that a qualified professional completes the repairs to guarantee the work is done correctly.
Repairing the Vehicle
Once you’ve selected a repair option, address the issues in the failure report. This may involve replacing worn-out parts, fixing faulty systems, or making adjustments to ensure your car meets the required standards.
Re-test Options
 There are two types of re-tests:
- Partial re-test: If your car failed on a limited number of items, you may be eligible for a partial re-test, which only covers the failed items.
- Full re-test: If your car failed on multiple items or safety-critical issues, a full re-test is required, covering all aspects of the vehicle.
Booking a Re-test
Contact the original testing centre or an alternative centre to book a re-test. Be prepared to provide the failure report and proof of completed repairs.
The Re-test Process
During the re-test, the testing centre will inspect your vehicle to ensure the necessary repairs have been completed and your car meets the required standards. If your vehicle passes, you’ll receive a new MOT certificate.
Post-Re-test Procedures
After passing the re-test, ensure you:
- Collect your new MOT certificate
- Check the certificate for accuracy
- Keep the certificate and failure report for future reference
Remember, if your car fails its MOT, it’s essential to address the issues promptly to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road. By following the retest procedure, you’ll get your vehicle back in good working condition and avoid potential fines or penalties.
Can I still drive the car if it fails its MOT?
If your car fails its MOT, you’re likely wondering whether you can still drive it. The answer is yes, but only in certain circumstances. Driving a failed MOT is not entirely prohibited but heavily restricted.
You can drive your car to a repair garage to have the necessary repairs completed. This is the most common scenario, as you’ll want to get your vehicle fixed as soon as possible to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road. Make sure to choose a reputable and qualified mechanic to complete the repairs.
Additionally, if you’ve scheduled an MOT re-test in advance, you can drive your car to it. This option is convenient if you’re confident the repairs have been completed and your car will pass the re-test.
Sometimes, you can drive your car a short distance to a nearby repair garage if the testing centre needs to be equipped to perform repairs. However, this should be a last resort and only be done if necessary.
However, there are circumstances where driving your car is not allowed. If the failure is safety-critical, such as faulty brakes or a dangerous tyre, you should not drive your car at all. The risks are too significant, and you could be putting yourself and others in harm’s way.
Similarly, if the testing centre or a mechanic advises against driving your car due to the severity of the faults, you should not drive it. Their expertise and judgment should be trusted, and ignoring their advice could lead to serious consequences.
Remember, driving a car with a failed MOT can result in a fine of up to £1,000 and even prosecution. It’s essential to address the issues promptly and follow the retest procedure to ensure your safety and the safety of others on the road. Don’t take unnecessary risks; get your car repaired and re-tested immediately.
Can I appeal my failed MOT?
Yes, but it’s essential to understand the process and the grounds for appeal.
You can appeal a failed MOT if you believe the decision was incorrect or unfair. This might be because you disagree with the testing centre’s assessment of your car’s condition or think the tester could have made a mistake.
To appeal a failed MOT, contact the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) within 14 days of the test date. You’ll need to provide detailed reasons for your appeal, including any supporting evidence, such as photographs or expert opinions.
The DVSA will review your appeal and may request additional information or evidence. They may also re-inspect your car to verify the original test results.
If your appeal is successful, the DVSA will overturn the failed MOT, and you’ll receive a new certificate. However, if your appeal is unsuccessful, you must complete the necessary repairs and re-test your car.
 It’s crucial to note that appealing a failed MOT can be lengthy and potentially costly. You should only appeal if you’re confident the original decision was incorrect or unfair.
Before appealing, consider seeking advice from a qualified mechanic or motoring expert to review your case and provide guidance. They can help you understand the strengths and weaknesses of your appeal and ensure you have a solid case.
Remember, the MOT test is in place to ensure road safety, so addressing any issues or faults identified during the test is essential. If your car has failed its MOT, it’s crucial to prioritise repairs and get your vehicle back on the road safely.
Can I drive my car after the MOT expires?
Driving a car after the MOT has expired is serious and can lead to severe consequences. In the UK, an MOT test is a mandatory annual examination to ensure your vehicle meets the minimum safety and environmental standards the government sets. If your MOT has expired, it means your car may not be roadworthy, and driving it can put you, your passengers, and other road users at risk of injury or even death.
Driving without a valid MOT can result in a fine of up to £1,000. Moreover, if you’re involved in an accident while driving an unroadworthy vehicle, your insurance may be invalid, leaving you liable for any damages or injuries caused.
To avoid any issues, it’s essential to prioritise road safety and arrange for an MOT test or repairs promptly. This ensures your vehicle meets the required safety standards, and you can drive confidently, knowing you’re not putting yourself or others at risk. Regular maintenance and checks can also help identify potential issues before they become major problems, saving you time, money, and stress in the long run.
Does a failed MOT get flagged?
When your vehicle fails an MOT, the test centre submits the result to the DVLA, which updates your vehicle’s record to reflect the failed test. This can lead to a “flag” or marker being placed on your vehicle’s history, indicating that it has failed an MOT.
This flag can be seen by:
- Insurance providers, who may increase your premiums or refuse to insure your vehicle
- Potential buyers, if you decide to sell your vehicle
- The police, who may stop your vehicle and issue fines or penalties
Additionally, the DVLA may take further action, such as:
- Sending you reminders to retest your vehicle
- Issuing fines or penalties for driving an unroadworthy vehicle
- Revoking your vehicle’s tax exemption if it’s no longer considered roadworthy
Book your MOT retest with Five Star Autocentre
Failed your MOT? Don’t worry! Book your retest with Five Star Autocentre and return on the road in no time! Our expert technicians will work with you to identify and fix the issues, ensuring your vehicle meets the highest safety standards.
With our state-of-the-art equipment and competitive pricing, you can trust us to do the job right. We’ll provide a comprehensive review of your vehicle’s condition and prioritise your scheduling to minimise downtime.
We’ll even throw in a free partial retest if you complete the necessary repairs within 10 working days. Our team will guide you through the process, offering expert advice and support every step of the way.
Don’t wait – book your MOT retest today and experience the Five Star Autocentre difference! Call us now or visit our website to schedule your appointment. Let us help you get back on the road safely and efficiently!
Book Your MOT Now from £39.95!
Is your vehicle due for its annual MOT? Look no further! At Five Star Autocentre, we offer a comprehensive MOT test for just £39.95. Our expert technicians will thoroughly inspect your vehicle to ensure it meets the highest safety standards, giving you peace of mind.
Our MOT test includes a thorough examination of your vehicle’s essential systems, including:
- Brakes
- Suspension
- Steering
- Tyres
- Lights and electrical equipment
- Exhaust and emissions
Don’t risk your safety on the road – book your MOT today and enjoy:
- A thorough inspection by our expert technicians
- A comprehensive report detailing any issues found
- A free partial retest if completed within 10 working days
- Competitive pricing without compromising on quality
At Five Star Autocentre, we pride ourselves on exceptional customer service and expert technical knowledge. Our state-of-the-art equipment ensures accurate results, and our team will guide you through the process, answering any questions you may have.
Book now and take advantage of our competitive pricing! Book online or call us on 01484 54 54 22. Don’t wait – book your MOT now and drive away with confidence!
FAQs
A: We offer a range of services, including MOTs, servicing, repairs, and maintenance for all vehicle types.
A: An MOT typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour.
A: Yes, we offer free partial retests if completed within 10 working days.
A: Yes, you can book your appointment online through our appointment booing system.
A: Yes, we have a comfortable waiting area with refreshments.
Yes, we provide a detailed quote before starting any work.
A: Yes, we use high-quality, genuine parts or equivalent.
Absolutely! Our technicians are experienced, trained, and certified.
A: The most common MOT failure is related to lighting and electrical issues, which can be attributed to several factors:
- Wear and tear: Light bulbs and electrical components can deteriorate over time, leading to faults.
- Damage: Accidents, vandalism, or harsh weather conditions can damage lights and electrical systems.
- Misalignment: Headlights can become misaligned due to accidents, potholes, or wear and tear, affecting their aim and performance.
- Corrosion: Moisture and salt can corrode electrical connections and wiring, leading to faults.
- Neglect: Failure to regularly check and maintain lighting and electrical systems can result in unnoticed issues.
Common examples of lighting and electrical faults include:
- Faulty or damaged brake lights, indicators, or headlights
- Incorrectly adjusted or aimed headlights
- Electrical system faults, such as wiring, fuses, or battery issues
- Hazard warning lights not functioning correctly
Regular checks and maintenance can help identify and address these issues before the MOT test, reducing the likelihood of failure.
No, you can have your car retested at the same garage. At Fivestar Autocentre if your car has failed its MOT test and you have the work to remedy the fault whilst your car is still with us, we won’t charge you an MOT retest fee.
A: The odds of a car failing its MOT vary depending on several factors, such as:
- Age of the vehicle: Older vehicles are more likely to fail, with a higher percentage of vehicles over 10 years old failing the test.
- Mileage: Vehicles with higher mileage are more likely to fail due to wear and tear.
- Maintenance: Vehicles regularly serviced and maintained are less likely to fail.
- Make and model: Some vehicle makes and models are more prone to certain faults, affecting the likelihood of passing the MOT.
According to the UK’s Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), the overall pass rate for MOT tests is around 70-75%. Approximately 25-30% of vehicles fail their MOT test.
Here’s a breakdown of the average MOT fail rates based on vehicle age:
- 0-3 years: 10-15% fail rate
- 4-7 years: 20-25% fail rate
- 8-10 years: 30-35% fail rate
- 11-15 years: 40-45% fail rate
- 16 years and older: 50-60% fail rate
Remember that these are general statistics, and the likelihood of a vehicle passing or failing its MOT depends on individual factors. Regular maintenance and checks can help identify potential issues before the MOT test, increasing the chances of passing.
A: Yes, the police can check if a vehicle has a failed MOT. In the UK, the police can access the DVLA’s database, which records MOT test results, including fails. They can check a vehicle’s MOT status using its registration or Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
If a vehicle has a failed MOT, the police may:
- Stop the vehicle: Police officers can stop a vehicle if they suspect it has no valid MOT or has failed an MOT test.
- Issue a fine: Drivers can be fined up to £1,000 for driving a vehicle without a valid MOT.
- Seize the vehicle: In some cases, the police may seize it if deemed unroadworthy or dangerous to the public.
- Check for other offences: A failed MOT can lead to further investigations, such as checking for valid insurance, road tax, and driver’s licences.
The police use various methods to identify vehicles with failed MOTs, including:
- Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras
- Roadside checks
- Intelligence-led enforcement
- Information from the public
It’s essential to address any MOT issues promptly to avoid penalties and ensure road safety.