Fed up with having to get your MOT each year? This could soon be a thing of the past with new Government proposals considering scrapping the annual MOT and replacing it with a check that takes place every two years. This is being considered as a way to support motorists during the cost of living crisis, which is seeing many households struggle to stay afloat each month.
Saving Motorists Money
The Prime Minister encouraged MPs to look for innovative ways to support households during the cost of living crisis and scrapping the annual MOT is an option that was discussed at a Cabinet meeting in April. The annual MOT can cost between £29.65 and £124.50 depending on the type of vehicle (it is a maximum of £54.85 for cars, but of course, the cost can end up being far greater than this if repairs (and another test) are required.
The Cost of Living Crisis
Currently, many are feeling the squeeze as a result of inflation, the cost of energy and the cost of fuel. These are all serious issues that have arisen as a “perfect storm” with the fallout from COVID-19, the Russian invasion of Ukraine and Brexit. With inflation at a 30-year high, many motorists are having to make serious sacrifices and this is why there are calls for action to support people.
No Decision Yet
It is not clear whether or not this motion will pass and it is important to note that motorists still need a valid MOT to prove that their vehicle is roadworthy, so you should not delay if your current MOT is about the expire. There are a number of steps that you can take to get your vehicle prepared for the MOT to increase your chances of passing first time to avoid having to pay for repairs and another test. If your tread depth is too low, for example, then you should buy a new set of Bridgestone tyres to avoid failing.
Critics
The proposed scrapping of the annual MOT could save motorists around £55 per year or possibly more, but it is important to note that not everyone is supportive of the idea. Some industry experts, including the AA, have stated that this could cost motorists more in the long run with higher repair bills. Not only this, but scrapping the annual MOT would lead to more unsafe cars on the roads and would put people in danger.
The annual MOT could soon be a thing of the past and repacked with a test every two years, which would be implemented as a way for motorists to save money during the cost of living crisis. There are arguments for both sides on this matter and it is important for motorists to keep a look out for developments in the coming weeks to see if anything changes.
