Lighting and signalling issues are the most common reason drivers fail their MOT (Image: Express)
Bill Fennell, Director of The Motor Ombudsman said there was an “element of concern” demand will be lower in March and September.
He said: “The research offers an interesting insight from those businesses that are ‘on the ground’ conducting the MOT tests.
“It is encouraging to see that the majority estimate that MOT volumes will hold up during the peak months, but there is equally an element of concern that demand may also be lower than March and September last year.
“There will also undoubtedly be more challenging periods for businesses in between, such as in April and May, due to the knock-on effect of motorists using the Government’s six-month MOT extension introduced in response to the pandemic.”
| UPDATED: 07:22, Sun, Mar 14, 2021
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An update to the MOT inspection manual now means classic car owners who have had LED bulbs fitted to their vehicles will fail their test. The new clarification will apply to modern classic vehicles and those who still opt to get their car checked despite already being exempt as a historic vehicle.
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The DVSA said checking lights, tyres and screenwash clouds also help drivers avoid many common issues reported at MOT tests.
It has urged road users to be SAFE on the road, remembering to:
Service their car if necessary
Air in tyres,
Examine lights and tread depth
DVSA Head of MOT Policy Chris Price said the organisation would “recommend” a professional garage check for those unsure about any problems with their cars.
He said: “As schools return, some motorists will need to use their cars more often than they have been recently.
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“With more traffic on the road, we want to help everyone to keep their vehicle safe to drive.
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“It is encouraging to see that the majority estimate that MOT volumes will hold up during the peak months, but there is equally an element of concern that demand may also be lower than March and September last year.
“There will also undoubtedly be more challenging periods for businesses in between, such as in April and May, due to the knock-on effect of motorists using the government’s six-month MOT extension introduced in response to the pandemic.”
The Motor Ombudsman report found no clear consensus on the average miles consumers could have picked up since their last MOT test.
“If you are shielding, you are not required by law to update your MOT test certificate.”
Drivers who do not have a valid certificate in place are only allowed to drive their cars from their home to a pre-booked MOT test.
Drivers can also drive their cars to a garage if they are going for repairs which could help the car pass its test.
Police might even ask to see evidence of your appointment to catch out those using their cars illegally.
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However, experts at Halfords have warned drivers could even face penalties for driving with a valid certificate if their car is still in a poor condition.