MOT Myths Busted – Separating Fact from Fiction
MOT Myths Busted – Separating Fact from Fiction
There are many misconceptions about MOT tests, from how they work to what happens if you fail. Whether it’s confusion over driving without an MOT, the real reasons cars fail, or when you need to get tested, it’s easy to get caught out by misinformation.
At Andrews Car Centre in Lincoln, we regularly hear MOT myths that lead to unnecessary worry—or worse, drivers breaking the law without realising it. In this guide, we’ll bust the most common MOT myths, ensuring you’re well-informed and confident when it’s time for your test.
1. “You Can Drive Without an MOT If You’re Just Going to the Test Centre” – ✅ Partly True, but There’s a Catch!
🚗 The Truth:
- You can legally drive without an MOT only if you are driving directly to a pre-booked MOT appointment at a test centre.
- If you’re stopped by the police, you must prove that you have an MOT booking.
⚠️ The Risk:
- If you drive anywhere other than directly to the test centre, you’re breaking the law.
- If your car fails and is deemed “dangerous,” you cannot drive it away—even to another garage!
💡 Tip: Always keep a confirmation of your MOT booking, just in case you’re stopped.
2. “If My Car Passes Its MOT, It’s in Perfect Condition” – ❌ False!
🚗 The Truth:
- An MOT only checks if your car meets the minimum legal safety and environmental standards on the day of the test.
- It doesn’t check the condition of components that aren’t part of the test, such as the clutch, gearbox, or battery health.
⚠️ The Risk:
- Just because your car passed doesn’t mean it won’t break down the next day.
- MOTs don’t include oil changes, servicing, or diagnostics—so your engine might still need maintenance.
💡 Tip: Combine your MOT with a service to keep your car in top condition.
3. “I Don’t Need an MOT Because My Car is New” – ✅ True (For Now)
🚗 The Truth:
- Brand-new cars don’t need an MOT for the first three years.
- From the third year onwards, an MOT is legally required every 12 months.
⚠️ The Risk:
- Even if your car doesn’t need an MOT, you must keep it roadworthy—police can still issue fines for bald tyres, faulty lights, or dangerous defects.
💡 Tip: Don’t wait three years to get your car checked—regular servicing ensures safety and reliability.
4. “If My Car Fails an MOT, I Can Still Drive It” – ❌ False! (It Depends on the Type of Failure)
🚗 The Truth:
- If your car fails with only minor issues, you can still drive it while you book repairs.
- If your car fails with a “Major” or “Dangerous” defect, you cannot legally drive it until repairs are completed.
⚠️ The Risk:
- If you drive a car with a “Dangerous” MOT failure, you could be fined £2,500, get 3 penalty points, and invalidate your insurance.
💡 Tip: If your car fails its MOT, get the repairs done ASAP at the same garage to avoid hassle.
5. “An MOT is the Same as a Service” – ❌ False!
🚗 The Truth:
- An MOT is a basic safety and emissions test that checks brakes, tyres, lights, and structural integrity.
- A service is a full health check and maintenance routine, including oil changes, engine diagnostics, fluid top-ups, and wear-and-tear inspections.
⚠️ The Risk:
- MOTs don’t check engine oil, spark plugs, or filters, so skipping servicing could lead to costly breakdowns.
💡 Tip: Book your MOT and service together for complete peace of mind.
6. “If My Car Fails Its MOT, I Get an Automatic Retest for Free” – ❌ False! (It Depends on the Garage)
🚗 The Truth:
- You only get a free partial retest if you leave the car at the test centre for repairs or return within 10 working days.
- If you take your car elsewhere, you may have to pay for a full MOT test again.
💡 Tip: Check the MOT retest policy of your garage before booking.
7. “I Can Do My Own MOT Check at Home” – ✅ Partly True!
🚗 The Truth:
- You can do a basic pre-MOT check at home to improve your chances of passing.
- However, some things (like emissions, brake efficiency, and suspension checks) require professional testing equipment.
💡 Easy Pre-MOT Checklist:
✔️ Check all lights are working (headlights, indicators, brake lights).
✔️ Inspect tyre tread depth (minimum legal limit is 1.6mm).
✔️ Test wipers & washer fluid for clear visibility.
✔️ Ensure seatbelts click and retract properly.
✔️ Check for leaks under the car (oil, coolant, brake fluid).
8. “My Insurance is Still Valid If My MOT Has Expired” – ❌ False!
🚗 The Truth:
- If your MOT has expired, your car insurance may be invalid in the event of an accident.
- Most insurers require a valid MOT for your policy to be active.
⚠️ The Risk:
- Driving without an MOT could result in a fine of up to £1,000 and having your insurance claim rejected.
💡 Tip: Always check your MOT expiry date and book in advance to stay legal.
9. “I Can Drive My Car Without an MOT If It’s Booked for a Test” – ✅ True, But Be Careful!
🚗 The Truth:
- You can legally drive to a pre-booked MOT appointment without an MOT.
- However, if your car has existing dangerous faults, you may still be fined if stopped.
💡 Tip: If you’re unsure about safety, get a pre-MOT check before driving.
Why Choose Andrews Car Centre for Your MOT in Lincoln?
At Andrews Car Centre, we make MOT testing quick, easy, and stress-free.
✔️ DVSA-Approved MOT Testing – Meeting all legal safety standards.
✔️ Fast, Same-Day Appointments – Don’t wait weeks for an MOT slot.
✔️ Free Retest Within 10 Days – If your car fails, we’ll retest it at no extra cost (if repaired with us).
✔️ MOT & Service Packages – Save money by combining your MOT with a car service.
✔️ Expert Technicians – Honest, professional advice on all repairs.
🚗 Need an MOT? Avoid the myths—book with Andrews Car Centre today!
Book Your MOT at Andrews Car Centre Today!
📞 Call Andrews Car Centre now or book online for a professional MOT test in Lincoln.
🚗✅ Andrews Car Centre – Lincoln’s Trusted MOT Test Centre.