MOT advice

After an MOT failure: repair and retest

After a failed MOT, start with the official result and the test centre's advice. Keep repair decisions, permission to drive and retest arrangements separate. Turner Brothers lists MOT repairs among its services; the work required depends on the actual findings.

Start with the complete test result

Provide the test date, test centre, failure descriptions and their categories. Include any minor defects or advisories you also want considered, clearly separated from the failure items. Tell the team what repairs have already been completed so the discussion is based on the current situation.

Do not assume the car can be driven away

GOV.UK says taking a failed vehicle away requires a still-valid current MOT and no dangerous defects on the result; the vehicle must also remain roadworthy. Check the official guidance and speak to the test centre about your actual result before making travel arrangements. This website cannot give a safe-to-drive decision.

Retest arrangements depend on what happens next

The official rules allow a free partial retest when a vehicle is left at the test centre for repair and retested within ten working days. Different conditions apply when it is taken away, including a next-working-day rule for specified items and possible partial-retest fees within ten working days. Ask the centre to confirm the rule, deadline and charge that apply to your case.

Agree the repair and the return visit

Ask for the proposed work, parts and price to be clear before authorising the repair. Confirm who will arrange the retest and when it will happen; a repair enquiry does not reserve it. If transport is needed while the vehicle is unavailable, raise that separately and check availability and terms.

Useful things
to know.

Is every MOT retest free?

No. It depends on where the vehicle is repaired, when it returns and the items being retested. Confirm the applicable arrangement with the test centre.

Does approving repairs automatically book the retest?

Do not assume so. Agree the repair and retest arrangements explicitly with the workshop.

Let’s get it sorted

Know what you need?
We’ll take it from here.

Request a service Describe a problem

TURNER BROTHERS

Keep Turner Brothers handy