While many of us have been working from home or furloughed during these difficult times, we have been using our cars less than we were before. Helpfully, last year the UK government added a six-month extension to MOT certificates, giving motorists some breathing space to get their tests completed while many businesses remained closed.
That deadline was set for 31st July 2020, which means the final exemptions will come due by the end of February 2021, which could catch out car owners who rush to get their tests complete but find high demand limits available slots.
Don’t forget, you can book your renewal up to a month in advance of its due date and keep that schedule going forward, so if yours falls in February you can be looking for appointments now, helping to avoid any unwanted difficulties if your preferred garage is fully booked.
Do I really need an MOT? I haven’t driven my car much over the past year.
Yes! In fact, leaving your car sat on your drive can be just as damaging as daily use. Simple things we take for granted, such as keeping the battery charged, ensuring the tyres are properly inflated (and not damaged from lack of use), or any engine faults, will need to be picked up on before you next have a planned outing – the last thing you need is a roadside pickup if it could have been avoided! The MOT is a reliable method of ensuring your vehicle is safe to take out on the road, both for your peace of mind as well as other road users.
Are there any exemptions?
In the first instance you should always check local guidance as Covid-related restrictions change at short notice. However, if your car is less than three years old it does not require an MOT (but be sure to mark the third year after registration as it will then need an annual check).
If you are shielding or self-isolating you should not take your vehicle for an MOT. Some garages may offer pick up and drop off services, so it is worth calling or emailing local businesses, but if that is not an option you should wait until it is safe to take your car for its MOT. If the due date has passed you may only drive it to a local test centre or garage (for repairs) and for no other purposes.
