Drivers warned as 2.9 million could face £2,500 | Tech News

Nearly three million automobiles have been pushed on British roads with out a legitimate MOT over the previous three years, in line with new analysis. Driving with out an MOT in place places different highway customers at risk and leaves drivers accountable for fines that could whole up to £3 billion.

Despite being a legal requirement, more than one in 5 drivers admit to lacking their MOT date, with over half of these reporting it has occurred more than twice. The figures come from analysis carried out by Confused.com, which highlights a worrying lack of awareness and compliance amongst drivers. 

The examine discovered that one in 4 drivers are unaware of the legal and financial penalties of driving with out a legitimate MOT. Drivers caught with out a legitimate MOT can face fines of up to £1,000. If the vehicle is deemed harmful, fines may even rise to £2,500, together with three penalty factors and, in some circumstances, a driving ban.

Data obtained from Freedom of Information requests to the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) and the Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) in Northern Ireland revealed that 791,000 automobiles have been overdue for a new MOT in 2024 alone.

For those that have accomplished their MOTs, national cross charges averaged 72%, with London recording the best at 78% and the South West the bottom at 67%.

Over the final three years, the South East had the best quantity of overdue MOTs, adopted by the East of England and the North West.

The DVSA additionally revealed probably the most common causes for MOT failures previously three years. Brake faults topped the listing, adopted by suspension points and tyre issues.

These faults can considerably have an effect on vehicle control, significantly on moist or icy roads, growing the risk of accidents, particularly as temperatures proceed to drop throughout the UK. In Northern Ireland, suspension points, physique chassis issues, and fuel or exhaust system faults have been probably the most frequent causes of failure.

Many missed MOTs have been merely attributable to drivers forgetting their take a look at date, with virtually half of those that missed it citing forgetfulness as the explanation. Other components included misunderstandings about deadlines and difficulties securing appointments.

The analysis additionally underlined that rising prices play a function, with some motorists delaying exams due to the average £111 expense for MOTs, together with reserving charges and crucial repairs.

Rhydian Jones, motoring skilled at Confused.com, stated: “Keeping on top of your MOT is more than a box-ticking exercise. It’s one of the most important ways to make sure your car is reliable and safe to drive. Our research shows that millions of cars are on the road without a valid MOT, often because drivers simply forget.

“But an expired MOT doesn’t simply imply a effective of up to £1,000. It means your car may not be roadworthy, which places you and others at risk. And if caught with out a legitimate MOT, there’s additionally a likelihood your insurance coverage could be invalidated.

“Many of the faults that cause MOT failures, like faulty brakes, damaged tyres, or suspension issues can often be avoided with simple and regular checks. Taking the time to spot problems early can save you money on repairs and help prevent accidents.

“To make staying on prime of your annual MOT take a look at simpler, some garages and dealerships offer cost schemes that embody your MOT and repair prices unfold throughout the yr. These plans usually include MOT reminders, serving to you keep organised and making them more inexpensive.

“Our MOT Checker also helps drivers view their vehicle’s MOT history, current status, and sign up for reminders so they don’t miss their next test.”