Understanding the Difference Between MOT and Car Service
What is the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about vehicle maintenance? An annual MOT? Or perhaps a regular service? Both answers are correct, but do you know what the difference between a service and an MOT is? If the answer to that question is "no", you're far from alone. So, if you've found yourself here after searching for service vs MOT, you're in the right place.
What is an MOT?
Now known as the Department of Transport, the arm of the government that is responsible for maintaining the country's transport network used to be called the Ministry of Transport and this is where the term MOT originates.
The main difference between an MOT and a service is that an MOT is required annually by law. During the test, a certified MOT tester uses a strict set of criteria to determine whether a vehicle is safe, roadworthy and fit for purpose. Driving a vehicle without an up-to-date certificate could incur a large fine and penalty points on your driving licence.
What is Included in an MOT?
Before issuing a certificate that states a vehicle is safe to drive, an approved vehicle tester will look at a wide range of different components, including braking and steering, exhaust emissions, windscreen and wipers, the legibility of your registration plate, your lights, and the condition of your seat belts.
After your vehicle tester has looked at each of the required components, they will determine whether your vehicle has passed or failed the MOT. You may also be provided with a list of 'advisory' or 'minor' problems that have been picked up during the test, which you should keep an eye on as they may develop into more serious issues later.
What Happens if my Car Fails its MOT?
If your vehicle tester spots any 'major' problems with your car during the MOT, it will fail. Depending on the severity of the problems, you may not be permitted to drive your vehicle away from the test centre without first having the issues fixed. If you continue to drive a vehicle that has failed the MOT due to a 'dangerous' issue, you may be banned from driving, receive a fine of up to £2,500, and/or receive 3 penalty points on your driving licence.
What is a Car Service?
While a car service is not a legal requirement, it's wise to have your car checked by a qualified mechanic. When your car is regularly serviced, you can feel confident that your vehicle will be more reliable and safer to drive (and your warranty will require it). Additionally, regular servicing can help you minimise the risks of experiencing any major mechanical or MOT failure issues with your vehicle, as they will be spotted and addressed early.
What is Included in a Car Service?
Most garages offer several different car servicing packages. Protyre garages have bronze, silver and gold servicing packages, with the gold servicing package offering the most comprehensive selection of checks. A comprehensive service will look at everything from your vehicle's oil and fluid levels /replacement, to coolant hoses, filters, auxiliary belts, lights, and more. Car services also include a tyre inspection and your Protyre expert can recommend specific tyres for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
MOT vs service. Which is better?
Rather than viewing one as being better than the other, it is important to know that an MOT is a legal requirement that you need in order to drive your car on UK roads.
What if my car is less than three years old?
If you have purchased a new car, you won't need an MOT until the third year of its registration.