What Should You Do if Your Car Has Failed the Mot Test?

Most car drivers get confused when they receive a failed MOT test; they do not know the next step. So it is perfectly normal to question the legalities regarding driving on roads after a failed test.  So, you should always make concrete plans before an MOT test – in case your car doesn't pass you won't have to drive illegally on the roads. 

Can You Drive A Car Which Has Failed Its MOT Test?

Cars that don't pass their MOT Dudley are considered unroadworthy due to faulty brakes, improper working of lights, and many other factors. So, they are not fit to be on road. In case the expiry of your MOT falls on the same day your vehicle fails the test, you can drive the car only for the following reasons –

• You are driving straight to a garage to get the car repaired.

• You are driving to a scheduled MOT test appointment.

You need to be careful about your safety while doing so. It is recommended that you don’t drive your car if it has received ‘Dangerous’ or ‘Major’ defects on its failed MOT test. If you are stopped by the police and can’t produce documents for driving an unroadworthy vehicle, you may –

• Be fined up to £2500.

• Not be able to drive again.

• Be prosecuted.

• Get penalty points on the driving license.

Repercussions Of Driving A Vehicle Whose MOT Has Expired:

As it is not legal to drive such a car, if you are caught, you may have to pay a hefty fine or your insurance cover might be invalidated. 

How To Get Your Car Retested?

Your vehicle needs to be retested to get an MOT certification if it fails its initial MOT test. You can get an MOT retest or partial MOT retest in ten working days. So, you will have enough time to make the necessary repairs before the retest.

What Does An MOT Test Include?

An MOT test inspects brakes, lights, windscreen, tires, dashboard, seats, steering, and mirrors. Most drivers can avoid failed MOT tests if they carry out rudimentary checkups regularly. 

How Often Does My Car Need An Mot Test?

The frequency of the MOT test depends on the age of the vehicle. If it is less than three years old, there is no need for an MOT test. But the test is mandatory when it completes three years of its registration. After passing the test, a certificate is issued to the vehicle that lasts for a year. You need to renew the MOT certificate before its expiry; it can be done a month before. Taxis, ambulances, private passenger cars with seats greater than 16 have to be tested 12 months after its first registration. 

What Is The Meaning Of Approved Test Centre?

Garages that offer MOT testing should have the approval of the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). The sign is blue with three white triangles. Take your car to a garage that has your complete trust. 

Can A MOT Fail Be Appealed?

If you think that the failed MOT result of your car is the wrong one, you have the right to appeal the decision. You have 14 days after the original test to appeal to the DVSA; they will take a maximum of 5 days to contact you to discuss the appeal. You might be offered a re-examination appointment, but it won’t be free. You can’t carry out any repairs during the appeal process as the condition of the vehicle should remain the same. Thus, it means that you cannot be on the roads during the whole process. 

Can You Get The MOT Test Earlier Than The Scheduled Date?

You are recommended to get an MOT test booking a month earlier than it is due to expire. If you are uncertain of the expiry date, check the MOT status. This way you can maintain the same renewal date as you can fix the problems if your vehicle fails the test. 

If there is any mistake on the MOT Dudley Wood certificate (like mileage or vehicle information), you can get it rectified. If the mileage is wrong and 28 days haven’t passed since your MOT test, get the MOT centre to check the mileage. They'll replace the certificate if it is incorrect. You need to contact the DVSA for the correction if more than 28 days have passed. You also have to email various scanned documents. To correct the vehicle details or add any missing MOT test to the MOT history, you will have to talk to the DVSA.