There are just over 7,500 vehicle repairers across the UK accredited to The Motor Ombudsman’s comprehensive Service and Repair Code – and are listed on the body’s online Garage Finder
UK motorists are being advised not to delay booking their car’s MOT before setting off on their summer holidays.
You can arrange the obligatory yearly safety and roadworthiness test a month (minus a day) before it expires. More than 7,500 vehicle repairers across Britain are endorsed by The Motor Ombudsman’s Service and Repair Code, and can be found on the organisation’s online Garage Finder. Fines for driving without an MOT can vary, typically ranging between £100 to £1,000.
Bill Fennell, chief ombudsman and managing director of The Motor Ombudsman, warned: “As the summer holiday period gets underway, and with millions of drivers set to take to the nation’s roads, we are urging consumers who own cars of three or more years age to arrange the annual assessment as soon as possible in advance of their trip.
“This gives a better chance of securing a booking at their preferred business, whilst it also helps spread the workload for MOT stations, particularly in locations across the country where garages may be busy. There are handy free-of-charge MOT reminder services available that can send a text or an e-mail direct to your smartphone to give you advance notice of a certificate expiring.”
“It is therefore worth signing up to keep this important date in the vehicle ownership calendar front of mind, and to avoid a last-minute scramble to secure a slot on the ramp,” said Rebecca Pullan, managing director at Carmaster Garage in Harrogate. She emphasised the necessity of the annual check-up, reports Birmingham Live. Rebecca said: “An MOT is a legal obligation an annual check that ensures your vehicle meets the required road safety and environmental standards.
“Contrary to the misconception of some consumers, there is no grace period once the MOT certificate becomes void. This means we always advise securing an appointment in advance, to ensure that the test is done well ahead of the deadline. As a general rule, it is good practice to bring your car to a garage for routine checks at least twice a year. Many drivers like to schedule their MOT and annual service for the same time, as they’re just making one trip to the garage.”
However, she pointed out the benefits of separating these visits: “However, ‘uncoupling’ these visits means vehicle owners are much more likely to catch small issues before they become serious problems. This can therefore help avoid incurring unwanted expense in the long run.”
