Four tips for keeping MOT costs down as bookings set to soar

THIS month marks the launch of new car registrations – and the first MOT for any motor turning three years old.

That means a surge in test bookings as drivers nab a slot.

Here, Daniel Meeghan, of car diagnostic scanner firm Carly (mycarly.com), helps you steer clear of costly MOT mishaps.

LOOK AHEAD: To reduce costs, keep up with regular motoring maintenance.

Making sure your car is in good condition all year round will help prevent any catastrophic, expensive failures further down the line.

HOMEWORK IS KEY: Deal with any advisories that cropped up in your previous MOT.

These are usually potential problems that didn’t quite stop your car from passing last time, but might have been close to doing so.

If you haven’t repaired them, it is likely they will pop up as an issue on your next test.

Get them seen to first.

RESEARCH THE TEST: Familiarise yourself with the MOT criteria to understand what inspectors will check for.

Many elements, such as lights, brakes and tyres, can be easily inspected at home by eye.

Address any potential issues ahead of the test.

This could be as simple as topping up fluid levels.

Some garages offer MOT test packages that include pre-test inspections.

These can be cost-effective, as they allow you to address minor issues before the test, reducing the chances of failure.

PARK YOUR WORRIES: If you find that car costs are a great source of anxiety, there are ways of overcoming that.

Perhaps you have a neighbour or friend who is a mechanic.

If so, you could ask them to give your car a once-over before its MOT.

The benefits of this are twofold.

First, you will feel more sure of your vehicle’s health and be able to discuss or contest any issues the test brings to light.

But you can also plan ahead if you do know there is an issue that is likely to require a significant outlay for you to make.

• All prices on page correct at time of going to press. Deals and offers subject to availability.

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