Changes to the MOT Test – Or not!
The government is looking at ways to modernise the MOT. Some people have been calling for changes to the MOT test; due to the increase in use of electric and automated vehicles.
There have also been calls to find ways to better monitor the particulate emissions from diesel vehicles. A big problem with vehicles fitted with diesel engines began in 2015. Audi and Volkswagen were accused of using devices to control the emissions from their vehicles with illegal devices. Although these vehicles could pass the MOT test, they were shown to be producing much higher levels of harmful nitrogen oxide (nox).
In a report published on 25th January however, there are no immediate plans to make changes to the MOT test.
The MOT (Ministry of Transport Test) was first introduced in 1960. The Ministry considered it appropriate to check all vehicles for basic safety issues, ten years after their first registration. Seven years later however, they changed the rules. From that point on, all cars were required to be tested three years after first registration; in addition to the follow up test each year. Although many of the rules have changed since then, the period of testing has not.
Consultation
The governments consultation, launched in 2023, sought the views of interested parties to consider:
- Advances in vehicle technology
- Tackling vehicle emissions
- That road-worthiness checks continued to be effective
- Balancing these factors with the cost to motorists
Studies suggest that MOTs can actually save motorists money in the long term. Faults which the test reveals, drivers have the opportunity to repair them before they develop into something more serious.
Here is a quote from Roads Minister, Guy Opperman:
“We have listened to drivers and industry. Keeping MOTs in their current form, shows once again that we are on the side of motorists.”
“By offering clarity on MOT tests; alongside our recent street works consultation and unprecedented £8.3 billion to resurface roads; and we are helping motorists drive with peace of mind. Ensuring Britain’s roads continue to be some of the safest in the world.”
We wait with baited breath to drive on those wonderfully smooth roads that Mr Opperman is promising us!