Motorists routinely double-charged

Four out of five drivers are overpaying for their service and MOT by not booking them together, new research shows.

According to MotorEasy, up to 85% of a typical car’s scheduled service checks are covered by the same checks conducted by MOT testers. Owners who book their service and MOT at different times are effectively charged twice for the same work.

By booking a service and MOT together with MotorEasy, motorists can save up to 40% over those who book them separately. Most garages ‘double dip’ by charging for the same checks twice, even if they don’t do them.

MotorEasy is also warning buyers not to rely on the MOT test to highlight potential problems with their vehicles. It is advising owners to service their cars at least once a year, as the MOT test leaves out important maintenance checks that are covered in a normal service.

The biggest example is a wheels-off brake inspection. Cars can pass the MOT brake test with loose pads, lipped discs and pads below minimum manufacturer specification. Further examples are that the MOT test does not include engine and gearbox oil checks, or similar inspections of the clutch and brake fluid levels. If any of these components fail due to a lack of oil or fluid, the repair bills could run to several thousand pounds, potentially writing-off the car.

MotorEasy founder, Duncan McClure Fisher, said, ‘We’re seeing the rise of the ‘Do It For Me’ generation. Time poor consumers want to minimise the amount of time they spend at dealers and garages, without paying over the odds for it. One way to do this is to book your service and MOT together, as the garage will conduct all of the checks required to pass an MOT during the service. Not only will drivers be spared an extra visit to the garage, but they can also save money, while leaving all the hassle and arrangements to the MotorEasy team.’