Confused between MOT and Car Service? Here is the difference

by Kim Parker Digital Marketing Strategist

When Do I Need An MOT?

To comply with UK law, every vehicle over three years must have an annual MOT test.

The MOT is primarily a visual inspection of your vehicle to determine whether it satisfies the DVSA's minimum road safety requisites. A qualified MOT tester will assess the condition of your brakes, the operation of your lights, and the tread on your tires. So what is checked during an MOT?

Driving without a valid MOT certificate is illegal and can lead to a £1000 fine and points on your license.

Have you forgotten about your MOT? Try out any effective MOT reminder tool.

While an MOT, a mechanic will inspect and check these areas for faults:

Vehicle identification number
Registration plate
Lights
Steering and suspension
Wipers and washer bottle
Windscreen
Horn
Seat belts
Seats
Fuel system
Emissions
Bodywork
Doors
Mirrors
Wheels and tires
Brakes

When Do I Need A Service?

We recommend a car servicing at regular intervals to keep your vehicle in good working order and roadworthy. Your vehicle's manufacturer defines the Service itself and typically includes a more thorough mechanical inspection of your vehicle.

Regular servicing would keep your car running smoothly while also extending its lifespan and preserving its value when it comes time to sell. However, car servicing, unlike the MOT test, is not required by law.

Car Servicing is classified into three types:

Interim Servicing

This 6-month, 40-point inspection is intended for the high-mileage driver. This Service includes changing the oil and filter and inspecting the brakes, steering, and suspension.

Full Servicing

The Full Service is an all-inclusive annual service that includes 69 individual checks and adjustments. It consists of an in-depth inspection of electrical and mechanical systems and a top-off of critical fluids such as brake fluid, power steering fluid, oil, coolant, and much more.

Major Servicing

The Major Service is the most comprehensive Car Service available and you should go for it after every two years. It covers all aspects and areas of essential maintenance as well as parts replacement. Moreover, your wheels play a vital role during major servicing. If you want to change your wheels, then feel free to connect with Xtreme Offroad Wheels. They have a wide range of Off-road, luxury, and street wheels.

So, What's The Difference?

Simply put, an MOT ensures that your vehicle is roadworthy and meets the DVSA's minimum safety requirements. When your car passes its MOT, it is roadworthy but may not be in the best running condition.

The goal of the Service is to get your car in the best possible shape so that it can last as long as possible. You may end up breaking down or causing damage to vital parts if you do not use a service, but services are not required.

Can You Drive Without An MOT?

Although it is a legal requirement to have your car inspected every year if it is more than three years old, your MOT center must not notify you when your next test is. As a result, it is recommended that you set some reminders.

Another piece of advice is to not schedule your test on the day your MOT is due to expire. If your car breaks down, you will be stranded until it can be repaired or retested. Instead, booking an MOT test in the month before the testing due date is the best option because the previous certificate can be dated from the expiry date of your last certification. This means that you will not lose any valid days during the year.

To answer the question, 'could you drive without the need for an MOT?' the answer is no. The only time you could legally drive without an MOT is when you're on your way to a pre-scheduled MOT appointment.