Where Can I Get My MOT Done?

Getting your car through its MOT is an annual task for many motorists. When it comes to choosing where to take your vehicle, most of us have ample choice, especially if you live in a town or city. You should get the same service and same MOT test everywhere as it’s a standardized service and the same test everywhere. However, there might be an option which is better for your individual circumstances.

Main Dealer

Many people who buy a new or nearly new car have bought a servicing and maintenance package as part of the deal. If you need to check the MOT status online you can do so here If that’s the case, it makes sense to put your car through its MOT at the same dealer when it’s in for a service. Often, dealers will give you a better price for your MOT if you’re a regular customer, or having servicing work done at the same time. The disadvantage to using a main dealer is that often the parts are more expensive than non-branded alternatives, should your car need work on it to pass the MOT.

Chain Garage

Often chain garages such as Halfords, Kwik-Fit, ATS or Mr. Clutch have the most competitive prices for MOT tests. Their mechanics are employed full time, and it is in the garage’s best interests to keep them busy with a constant stream of MOT tests. Using one of these chains allows you to book online, at a location convenient to home or work. Unlike many independent garages, some chains stay open late into the evening, and at weekends. The downside of chain garages is that you might not get the individual customer service enjoyed at smaller garages. Also, in a very busy location, you might have to wait for remedial work to be done before you can collect your car again.

Independent Garage

In rural locations, the small local garage might be the only testing station for miles. In towns, if you prefer the personal touch for service the local garage might still be the best option. As prices are capped by the government, their prices shouldn’t outstrip the chains by too much. Local garages are more likely to give you a lift home, or even lend you a courtesy car. However, a busy local garage is unlikely to be able to fit you in at short notice and many aren’t open in the evening or at weekends.

Council Testing Site

Many local councils around the country have their own independent MOT testing sites and they’re often recommended as a cost-effective way of getting your MOT. What is certainly true is that they are impartial; as they don’t do repairs, they have no vested interest in finding faults or suggesting things which need fixed. However, if your car fails its MOT at a Council testing station, you then have to find somewhere else to have the repairs done, before bringing it back to the testing station for a retest. It’s a good option however for relatively modern cars which are almost certain to sail through.