Getting A Car MOT Or Service During The Coronavirus Pandemic

Understanding the regulations relating to keeping your car MOTd and serviced during the pandemic can be difficult. Here, we'll shed some light on the current rules to help make sure you're able to drive as safely as possible.

Does My Car Need An MOT?

The answer is yes. Of course, this is always the answer, but the issue might be confusing because for a six-month period in 2020, there was an MOT extension. This meant that if your car's MOT was due between March 30th and August 1st, it would be extended, but if your MOT was due after that, you would not receive an extension. So in 2021, you need to get your vehicle MOTd.

You have a month leading up to your MOT expiry date to get your vehicle tested.

Can Garages Actually Open?

MOTs and car repairs are considered essential services, so garages are staying open. There will, however, be appropriate COVID-safe rules in place, which may include social distancing and the use office masks and hand sanitiser. Your garage may also prefer you to pay by card wherever possible, though this isn't a legal requirement, so it is up to each individual garage.

For your peace of mind, phone ahead to confirmany COVID-safe practices in effect at your preferred garage.

What About Car Servicing?

Getting your car serviced is not a legal requirement. It is, however, essential if you want your vehicle to run as safely and reliably as possible. It may also be required if you have a warranty active on your vehicle, as some contracts require servicing to be handled by a certain dealer by a certain date every year, otherwise, the warranty is void. The same safety procedures will apply for servicing.

Check the small print of your service contract, warranty, or finance agreement to see the servicing stipulations.

In Conclusion

You still need to have an MOT during COVID, even if you're not driving very much. The MOT extension period has long passed, and the system is working as normal. If you're not driving at all, you may think about getting a SORN for your car. SORN stands for Statutory Off-Road Notice and basically tells the government you're not using your vehicle. You will not have to insure or MOT it, but it must be kept off the public road. You will have to re-insure it and provide an MOT if it has expired during your period of non-use before you can drive it again.

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