If your car has failed its annual MOT test recently, then worry not as you are not the only one failing it. It is normal to fail an MOT test. Every 4 in 10 cars usually fail the MOT test and have to retake the test once the required damages are fixed. Hence, it is important to understand what happens if a vehicle fails its MOT test - can you still drive the car? In this blog post, we will cover everything that a vehicle has to go through after failing the MOT Bromley.
What happens after MOT failure?
If your car has failed its MOT test, then:
- Your vehicle must go for the repairs of the required parts and has to be taken for a retest to comply with the MOT standards
- You will not be given your MOT certificate
- MOT failed cars are not covered by the insurance, so you will be advised not to drive the vehicle, although you can take your car to the garage for repairs or to an authorized MOT center
Within 10 working days, if you can get the car for the test, repair the required parts, and take it for a retest, then no additional charges would be applied for retesting.
The refusal of the MOT certificate will have the reasons for failure, and the parts that need to be repaired mentioned in it.
Can I drive a car that has failed the MOT?
You can drive the car but only for taking it to the garage for fixing the damages and for a pre-booked MOT test appointment. However, you should be very careful while driving a faulty car. A car that has failed its MOT due to dangerous or major issues should preferably not be driven. If you get caught driving a car with a failed MOT, you will be pulled over by the police and will receive a fine of up to £2500. You could also be banned from driving further and can also receive a penalty on your driving license.
Driving with an expired MOT certificate
Doing this is illegal - and if you are found driving even after your MOT certificate is expired then you will be fined and will be in no condition to get your insurance cover.
How to check MOT status?
To check the status of your MOT, visit the government website and enter the registration number of your car. You will also find a quick snapshot of the faults that were registered the last time you went for MOT testing so that it's easier for you to keep a check on your car's condition. This feature turns out to be a life-saver when you are willing to buy a used car. A sneak peek into the MOT history can give you a brief idea of how the car's health was earlier and what all areas you need to pay more attention to. This will help you in making more informative and clear decisions and you will be left with no doubts in your mind regarding the quality of the car.
How to appeal for a failed MOT?
If you feel or believe that the decision is incorrect, you have the right to appeal a failed MOT. It's recommended that you discuss your concerns with the MOT test center before appealing for MOT failure. If this isn't helpful, you must fill out a complaint form and appeal to the DVSA within 14 working days from the date you took the test. You cannot make any repairs during these 14 days. After receiving your complaint - DVSA will contact you and discuss your concern within 5 days. You may also be offered a re-examination of your car and you will be charged for this. If your appeal for a failed MOT is successful, you will receive some or all of the fee back with an MOT certificate.
Failing the MOT test is very common. So, do not stress at all about it. The positive news here is that you can finish up the repairs quickly and get the vehicle retested within just 10 days. If you are looking for an MOT Darlaston, you have landed at the right stop. We are backed by a team of professionals who are highly experienced with this process. Call us and book your appointment today!
