What to Do If Your MOT Has Expired – A Step-by-Step Guide - Last Mintute MOT's in Lincoln
What to Do If Your MOT Has Expired – A Step-by-Step Guide - Last Mintute MOT's in Lincoln
Realising your MOT has expired can be stressful, but it’s important to handle the situation quickly and correctly to avoid fines and ensure your vehicle remains roadworthy. At Andrews Car Centre in Lincoln, we understand that life gets busy, and MOT dates can slip through the cracks. This guide will walk you through the steps to take if your MOT has expired, helping you get back on the road safely and legally.
Why It’s Important to Act Quickly
Driving a vehicle without a valid MOT is illegal in the UK and can lead to serious consequences, including:
- Fines of up to £1,000
- Points on your licence
- Invalidated insurance – In the event of an accident, your insurer may refuse to cover the damage.
- Increased risk of breakdown – An expired MOT could mean your car has underlying issues that could compromise safety.
However, there are exceptions to the rule. If your MOT has expired, you can legally drive your vehicle to a pre-booked MOT appointment or to a garage for repairs.
Despite this exception, it’s best to address the issue immediately to avoid complications. The longer your vehicle goes without an MOT, the greater the risk of being penalised, especially if you're stopped by the police or involved in an incident.
Step 1: Stop Driving the Vehicle Immediately
As soon as you realise your MOT has expired, stop using the vehicle for daily driving. Continuing to drive without a valid MOT could lead to fines and penalties if you are caught. Even a short drive to the shops or work can result in penalties.
If you rely on your vehicle daily, arranging an MOT as soon as possible should be your top priority.
Step 2: Check Your MOT Status Online
If you’re unsure of your MOT’s expiration date, you can check it online using the GOV.UK MOT history checker. This tool allows you to:
- Verify your vehicle’s MOT expiry date
- View previous MOT results and advisories
- See any records of failed tests
All you need is your vehicle’s registration number. By checking the status, you can confirm whether your MOT has lapsed or is approaching expiry. It’s also a useful tool for setting reminders for future tests.
Step 3: Book an MOT Immediately
Once you’ve confirmed the expiry, the next step is to book an MOT as soon as possible. At Andrews Car Centre, we offer:
- Same-day and next-day MOT appointments
- Affordable, unbiased £29 MOT tests
- Pre-MOT checks to identify potential failure points before the test
Booking quickly ensures that you can legally drive the car to your appointment, reducing downtime and keeping your vehicle compliant.
If you’re concerned about potential faults, consider booking a pre-MOT inspection to give your vehicle the best chance of passing.
Step 4: Can You Drive to the MOT Test?
Yes – you can drive your car without a valid MOT if:
- You are driving directly to a pre-booked MOT appointment.
- You are driving to or from a garage for necessary repairs after a failed MOT.
To avoid fines, keep proof of your MOT booking (such as an email confirmation or text message) in the vehicle. This can be shown to authorities if needed.
Important: If your vehicle is flagged as dangerous during a previous MOT, you cannot legally drive it – even to the test centre. It must be towed or transported by a recovery service.
Step 5: Prepare for the MOT
To increase your chances of passing the MOT, consider these simple checks before your appointment:
- Tyres – Ensure the tread depth is at least 1.6mm and check for bulges or punctures.
- Lights – Test all headlights, brake lights, and indicators. Replace any faulty bulbs.
- Brakes – Listen for unusual noises and check if the handbrake is working properly.
- Wipers and Washers – Ensure wipers work effectively and washer fluid is topped up.
- Fluids – Check engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid levels.
- Windscreen – Repair chips or cracks that could obstruct your view.
Need help with pre-MOT checks? Our expert technicians at Andrews Car Centre can conduct a quick inspection to ensure your car is ready.
Step 6: What Happens If Your Vehicle Fails the MOT?
If your vehicle fails the MOT:
- Minor Faults – You can still drive the vehicle but should repair the issues as soon as possible.
- Major Faults – Your vehicle cannot be driven until repairs are made and a retest is completed.
- Dangerous Faults – The vehicle must remain off the road until repaired. Driving with a dangerous fault can lead to fines and points.
At Andrews Car Centre, we offer free MOT retests within 10 working days if your car fails.
The Consequences of Driving Without an MOT
Driving without an MOT isn’t just a legal issue – it can have severe financial and safety consequences:
- Increased Risk of Accidents – An MOT identifies critical safety issues. Driving without one could mean operating a vehicle with faulty brakes, worn tyres, or suspension problems.
- Higher Repair Costs – Small issues that could have been flagged during an MOT may worsen over time, leading to more expensive repairs.
- Insurance Complications – Many insurers may refuse to cover claims if your vehicle’s MOT has expired at the time of an accident.
Set Up MOT Reminders to Avoid Future Expirations
To avoid future issues, set up automatic MOT reminders through GOV.UK or with Andrews Car Centre. We can notify you in advance when your MOT is due, ensuring you never miss a test.
Alternatively, add your MOT date to your calendar or phone reminders.
Why Choose Andrews Car Centre for Your MOT in Lincoln?
At Andrews Car Centre, we pride ourselves on offering:
- Unbiased £29 MOTs – Transparent, fair, and affordable testing with no unnecessary upsells.
- Experienced Technicians – Skilled in servicing all makes and models.
- Quick Turnaround – Same-day MOTs with minimal waiting time.
- Friendly Customer Service – We explain all advisories and faults clearly, so you understand exactly what your vehicle needs.
Book Your MOT Today
If your MOT has expired or is approaching its due date, don’t wait – contact Andrews Car Centre in Lincoln today. We’ll help you get back on the road quickly, safely, and legally.
📞 Call now or book your MOT online.