MOT changes would put lives in danger for a saving of 23p a week

Two-thirds of motorists think MOT changes would put lives in danger

MOT changes would put lives in danger for a saving of 23p a week

Sixty-seven percent of car owners are concerned that extending the MOT would put lives in danger, according to a new study.

The research published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) also shows that three-quarters (74 percent) of drivers think that the MOT test fee is a price worth paying for the peace of mind.

The government says delaying a car’s first MOT would deliver a cumulative saving to owners of three-year-old cars worth between £91 and £117 million, based on 2.6 million first presentation tests.

For the average driver, this represents a saving of £35-45 over the first three years – or 23p to 29p a week.

Most drivers (87 percent) would rather save money in other ways, such as a reduction in VED or a cut in fuel duty. The survey also found that 66 percent of respondents spend more than the typical price of an MOT in fuel alone over just two weeks.

The SMMT points out that more than 300,000 vehicles fail their first MOT through failure to meet minimum safety requirements, with fails frequently associated with tyres, brakes, lights and suspension.

Nearly a quarter of motorists (23 percent) admit to not checking that their brakes are working correctly, almost a fifth (19 percent) fail to inspect their tyres, and 17 percent aren’t checking their lights and indicators on a regular basis.

Sixty-six of respondents say they would not purchase a three-year-old car without an MOT.

Mike Hawes, SMMT chief executive, said: “Safety is the number one priority for the automotive industry and the MOT is a crucial component in keeping the UK’s vehicles and roads safe.

”Our survey shows that drivers support the existing MOT frequency and that there is little appetite to change it, despite the increased cost of living. If changes to the MOT are to be made, these should enable testing of advanced electrified powertrains, driver assistance technologies and connected and automated features, as drivers value the peace of mind the MOT offers.”

SMMT is calling on the government to maintain the requirement for a first MOT at year three, and annually thereafter, while also introducing improved emissions tests and adaptations in line with the shift in technology to electrification and advanced driver systems.

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