Drivers unaware of council-run MOT centres
New research has revealed that 75% of motorists are unaware that council-run MOT centres offer tests to the general public.
According to a study carried out Uswitch, only 11% of drivers have ever used a council-run test centre despite average MOT prices at these sites being £49.
It has revealed that 133 councils across the UK currently offer MOT tests for privately owned cars, with 85 in England, 17 in Scotland and 11 in Wales.
However, 25% of drivers are unaware councils offer this service.
Of those who are, and have used these centres, 48% said they believed council-run MOT centres to be more trustworthy than garages or manufacturers, while 41% appreciated believed they offered unbiased repair advice.
Uswitch car insurance expert Leoni Moninska said: “The key consideration with MOTs is that you stay up-to-date with the annual test and have it performed at an authorised facility. Trustworthiness is a major factor for many drivers, with over one in five (22%) prioritising this when choosing a test centre. The DVSA also publishes a list of test centres which is updated frequently.”
She added: “If your MOT is coming up, it’s worth considering a local council test centre if available because they’re less likely to suggest unnecessary repairs, which will reduce overall costs.
“Following MOT advisories could also help you save in the long run, as addressing problems early can prevent them escalating and leading to more costly repairs down the line.”
