One million driving without MOT

"It is vital that motorists MOT their vehicle to ensure it is safe to drive" commented RMI director, Stuart James responding to recent findings published by The Kwik Fit Group. The findings indicated that a staggering "1million motorists are deliberately driving without an MOT."

The motorists in question stated that they either only renew their test when they are required to produce a certificate; or do intend to renew, but like to delay the re-test to maximise the longevity of the new certificate.

Additionally the results found that over a third of motorists (34 per cent ) don’t pre-book their MOT, bringing on the risk that they will not be able to get their car tested in time.

James continued “What’s more staggering is that if in the forthcoming MOT review the government decide to change the frequency of MOTs, cars could be going longer than two years without a professional going near it.

“Motorists see delaying their MOT as a money saving option. However if simple faults remain undetected then the cost of fixing them could spiral. An MOT not only highlights problems with the car that need to be fixed straight away, it also provides a warning for items that may soon become unsafe allowing them to be fixed before the cost and danger escalates.

“The most important thing to remember is that an MOT ensures that the car is safe to drive at the time of testing. More and more evidence is being produced to show that record levels of cars and vans are failing their MOTs. Car maintenance standards are slipping, and while the annual MOT is an opportunity to check the vehicle is safe it is not a substitute for annual servicing and routine maintenance.”

With regard to tyres, it has long been a worry in the trade that the only time that some motorists’ tyres are checked is at the MOT and, if this is being postponed, the potential for accidents can only increase.