RMI also voices opposition to MOT extension

The Retail Motor Industry Federation (RMI), which represents retail business across the automotive sector including franchised dealers and independent garages, added to the NTDA’s objections its strong opposition to the proposed MOT change. The RMI believes the change could only harm the UK’s road safety record.

RMI Director Stuart James said today, “The government seems to take the view that the MOT is a burden on motorists – we think that motorists deserve more credit than that. Road safety is a priority for them and their families and they understand that roadworthiness testing of vehicle is an important part of making our roads among the safest in Europe.”

The RMI contends that an average mileage car is significantly more likely to be driving on unsafe and worn tyres and brakes after four years compared to three, and any extension is likely to see more failures of safety related components, such as shock absorbers, long before they are identified at MOT. The overall reliability of modern cars and longer servicing intervals means that the current generation of drivers are far less likely to be aware of vehicle faults. All this is only exacerbated in higher-mileage cars.

The majority of new cars have a three year warranty period from the manufacturer, the RMI adds, which helps to identify and rectify such faults without cost to the driver in the period where an MOT is not yet required. If this is extended beyond the vehicle’s warranty, there may be vehicles driving on the roads for a full year with safety related faults.