Nobody wants to hear that their car has failed its MOT, but it happens to roughly one in three vehicles tested, so if it happens to you, you're in good company. What matters most is understanding what a fail actually means and what happens next. Here's a clear guide, so there are no surprises.
The three types of fault
When a vehicle fails an MOT, the tester records every issue found under one of three categories:
- Dangerous, meaning there's a direct and immediate risk to road safety or the environment. You must not drive the vehicle at all until it's fixed
- Major, meaning the fault could affect safety or the environment. The vehicle fails its MOT and shouldn't be driven until repaired, except to a pre booked appointment to have it fixed
- Minor, meaning the fault should be monitored and repaired soon, but it doesn't cause an immediate fail
Your test certificate will clearly list which category each fault falls under, along with an explanation of what was found.
Can you still drive your car?
If your car had a valid MOT before the test and the only faults found are minor, you can carry on driving as normal while you arrange the repair. However, if there are dangerous or major faults, the vehicle is no longer considered roadworthy and shouldn't be driven until the work has been carried out, other than to a booked repair appointment.
If you're ever unsure whether it's safe to drive your vehicle home, just ask us. We'd always rather you called and checked than took an unnecessary risk.
What happens next at our garage
If your vehicle fails with us, we'll talk you through exactly what's been found, in plain English, with no jargon and no pressure. We'll give you an honest quote for the work needed and explain why each item matters for your safety.
Common failure areas we deal with regularly include brakes, tyres, and lighting. Most of these repairs are straightforward and can often be completed the same day.
Getting a free retest
If we carry out your MOT and your vehicle fails, you're entitled to a free partial retest if you bring it back to us within ten working days, provided the vehicle isn't presented in a significantly different condition. This only applies to the specific items that failed, not a full retest from scratch.
This is one of the reasons we'd always encourage getting your MOT booked in good time before your current one expires, so there's a comfortable window to sort out any repairs without the added stress of a deadline.
We're here to help, not to worry you
At Michael Key MOT & Servicing, our aim has always been honesty first. If your car needs work, we'll tell you why, show you what we've found, and give you a fair price. If it doesn't need something, we won't try to sell it to you.
We look after drivers across Long Eaton, Sandiacre, Stapleford, Breaston, Draycott, Beeston, Nottingham and Derby, many of whom have trusted us with their MOTs and servicing for years.
Book your MOT with confidence
Whether you're due an MOT or need a repair sorted after a failed test, we're here to help. Book online today, or get in touch to talk through what your vehicle needs.
Safe, reliable vehicle repairs, that's our promise.
