Drivers urged to bring their MOT forward to beat the Autumn rush​

If your vehicle was subject to the government’s 6-month extension during the COVID-19 crisis, now is the time to book a slot if you haven’t already done so.

It is predicted that September, October, and November 2020 are going to be extremely busy months for MOT centres. This is because vehicles that were given an extension and those that would normally be due their MOT will both need to be tested.

Understandably, most drivers wait until the last month of expiry for the vehicle’s MOT test, but the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) is warning motorists whose MOT is due this autumn to have it done earlier, or risk no availability at test centres.

If you get your MOT done:

• over a month before it’s due, your MOT renewal date for next year will change
• up to a month (minus a day) before your due date, you will keep the same renewal date next year

End of extension period

Cars, motorcycles and light vans that were due an MOT between 30 March and 31 July 2020 were given a 6-month extension to help keep motorists moving during the coronavirus pandemic.

Vehicles that were due an MOT from 1 August 2020 did not get an extension and need to keep to their usual MOT date.

Remember that you cannot drive or park your vehicle on the road if the MOT has run out. You can be prosecuted if caught.

Which vehicles need an MOT?

You must get an MOT for your vehicle by either the third anniversary of its registration, or the anniversary of its last MOT if it’s over 3 years old. Some vehicles, such as taxis and ambulances require a MOT in the first year. Check the Government website if you are unsure.

What to expect at an MOT test

All our Audi centres are operating with strict COVID-19 precautions in place with a timed appointment system to minimise social contact when you arrive with your vehicle. We also ensure that your vehicle will be subject to cleaning procedures and protection before we handle it and before it is returned to you. This will include external touch areas, door handles, seats, steering wheel, gear lever, handbrake etc.

Dozens of parts of the vehicle will be checked to make sure they meet the legal standards, including lights, tyres, windscreen and wipers, screen wash, horn, and seat belts. The test does not cover the condition of the engine, clutch or gearbox. You must ensure the vehicle has sufficient fuel and engine oil.

It’s possible to anticipate many of the items that could fail an MOT and fix them in advance. A simple one is to wipe the number plate thoroughly, and check that the font and spacing complies with current regulations.

If you find any faults that you are unable to easily rectify yourself, it’s advisable to inform our service centre in advance, so that they have time to complete the work required before the test.

An MOT test currently costs £54.85 for whatever model Audi you drive and it’s simple to book by visiting our website at /audi/service/service-mot-booking/