WITH mandatory MOT testing returning next month, local garages are urging vehicle owners to think ahead and book their MOTs sooner rather than later.
In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, the government granted drivers a 6-month exemption from MOT testing in March, to help slow the spread of the virus. However, from next month, all drivers whose car, motorcycle or van is due for an MOT test from 1st August will be required to get a test certificate to continue driving their vehicle.
Drivers with an MOT due date before 1st August will still receive a 6-month exemption from testing – but local garages say that if possible, drivers should avoid using the exemption and book their MOT as soon as possible to ensure that their vehicle is safe and roadworthy.
Andy Duck from AND Autos told Frome Times, “Some cars brought to us for MOT have arrived in bad condition – wire coming out of their tyres and other dangerous defects. People will often drive their cars until their MOT is due, when they have to fix these things – so to offer a 6-month exemption was odd I thought.
“Another six months is a long time to leave your vehicle without a MOT. I would encourage any vehicle owner whose MOT was due, to book as soon as possible – get it done – unless you have the time and knowledge, you won’t know how your brakes are performing, or if you have a suspension defect – let the experts check.”
Brad from Rodden Road Cars added, “During the exemption period it has been down to vehicle owners to be conscious of the condition of their car – making sure their tyres are in good condition, listening out for squeaks and rattles – but there’s only so much they can do, or see without their own ramp.
“So we have found that a lot of customers are booking in their MOTs anyway, and not using the exemption – an MOT is the safest way to know that your vehicle is roadworthy.”
With an expected rise in the number of visitors to local garages, business owners have introduced a number of measures to ensure that staff and customers are safe, and the risk of the spread of the virus is reduced.
Brad at Rodden Road Cars said, “We have all the standard protection and procedures in place – sneeze guards, wiping down the cars before and after appointments. MOTs are by appointment only, so it’s very rare to have more than two customers at any time – so it is easy to social distance at our garage.”
Andy at AND Autos said, “Customers can book their MOTs through us and drop their car off at the garage – before it is returned the car is wiped down, and all staff wear protection.”