Understanding Your Options After an MOT Failure

Not passing the MOT in Evedon examination is one of those events that usually freaks out drivers. Their major worry, always, is that now the car is stuck at the garage, waiting to be repaired- not so, not always, and knowing what this could mean after failing an MOT exam could help you take on the less anxiety-inducing version of this ugly experience.

Can You Drive Your Car After an MOT Failure?

The answer is mostly dependent on exactly why the car failed the MOT test. As from 2018, a completely new marking system has been introduced into the MOT testing system: Dangerous, Major, Minor. All forms of failure must be classified into these defect categories, which include the three main kinds above.

Dangerous Defects: Not driven at all, a failure due to dangerous defects may be hazardous to you and other road users as this indicates that a vehicle is not safe enough to be on the road. Examples of dangerous defects are severe brake issues, significant cracks in the windscreen, or bald tires.

Major Defects: Cars with major defects can still be used but with very stiff restrictions on it. You should be able to use it for 10 days following this failure provided your old MOT certificate is still valid. This will allow you to conduct the necessary repair activities. Exceeding this period will mean a full retest would be needed on that vehicle.

Minor errors: These are minute faults, but they are not excluded from the MOT test failure; they need to be considered for an early remedy, such as a chipped wiper blade or a light or two out. You will still be able to drive your vehicle, but try to address it soon to avoid bigger problems down the road.

Example Of Dangerous Defects

This will also give you a clear understanding of what being a danger defect is so that you could evaluate your vehicle better. Some of the more typical ones are as follows:

• Brakes: Loose brake discs or leaking brake fluid can severely compromise your vehicle's safety.
• Windscreen: Large cracks, especially those in the driver's line of sight, can obstruct vision and are considered dangerous.
• Tyres: Bald or damaged tyres can lead to loss of control while driving.
• Suspension Issues: Problems with the suspension can affect handling and stability.

If your vehicle has any of these issues, it is crucial to refrain from driving until repairs are made.

What To Do After an MOT Failure?

If your car has failed its MOT, then you should take these steps:

Check the MOT Certificate: Read through your MOT certificate thoroughly to find out the exact reasons for failure. This will help you prioritise repairs.

Schedule Repairs: If your vehicle suffers from a major defect, book repairs at the earliest opportunity. You have 10 days within which you can had the work done without straying outside the legal limits.

Partial Retest After Repair: You can return to the same garage again after repairs have been done to your automobile so that further tests or evaluation can be conducted for any partial retest. This is usually cheaper than a complete MOT and saves your time, too.

Driving to Garage: Before driving your vehicle to the garage for repairs, ensure that the vehicle is roadworthy and has no dangerous defects. If your MOT has expired, you can only drive to a pre-arranged MOT appointment or to the garage for repairs.

The Consequences of Driving Without an MOT

The United Kingdom has very strict laws and regulations when it comes driving vehicles on public roads without a valid MOT. Driving a vehicle without a legitimate MOT could cause a person to find himself in very serious trouble. Being caught driving without an MOT carries hefty fines and points on your license. If an individual were to get into an accident while driving and did not obtain an MOT, then the insurance would likely be void, putting him or her in serious liability repose for damages caused.

What Happens If You Forget to Renew Your MOT?

Driving an invalid MOT because you simply forgot to get it renewed might elicit the same sanctions. Typically, authorities are not very understanding about such excuses. As a car owner, it is entirely up to you to keep your vehicle's MOT current. Set up timers and remember to book your MOT ahead of time to avoid such situations.

Impact of a Failed MOT on Your Car’s Value

If you are thinking of selling your car after it has been denied an MOT, note that it will greatly affect its value in the market, as anyone who might be interested to buy it would most probably want a reduction in price because he has to consider the cost needed for repairs. Many people choose to scrap their MOT failures or salvage them, as sometimes that's the easiest way to go.

When an MOT fails, the scenario is very unpleasant, but it will be easier if you know your rights and obligations. If your vehicle has a dangerous defect, don't drive it before it has been repaired. For major defects, you have 10 days in the grace period to put your vehicle back into MOT in Brandon action. Prioritize safety and legality with your vehicle but don't avoid seeking help from professionals regarding repairs. Stay informed and proactive about your vehicle, and you can always be sure it remains safe and roadworthy.