Beware Saving Money on MOT Bills

Fran

I don't trust any of them! I have been ripped off by garages in the past and even ones that seem ok will start to "find" extra things that need doing once they have you in their claws. I've asked people to recommend garages and found them to be the same. People seem far too willing to accept what they say. I always ask other garages opinions (they will normally give you a quote for nothing in the hope of getting your business) and get quotes on work over the phone. My MOT runs out this month and I had a load of problems last year with different garages quoting different things to me and saying it would cost me £X more because it was xmas. I'm dreading it as I don't know of a reputable one in my area (and I've visited a few!). Of course it might pass.... but I really really doubt it!

tomstickland

Strike a balance. I use a reliable back street garage to do my MOTs. He will fail a car on safety issues, but he's prepared to do small jobs like headlight alignment there and then. He was also very helpful when I had emissions problems when I ran twin carburettors on a tuned up car .

You can take your car to another garage for a 2nd opinion. If you just turn up and say "it's failed MOT on this corrossion, what do you think?" or whatever, then they'll usually have a quick look. Opinions do vary on some items.

The MOT is a bit of a game.

The new computerised MOT system should have meant the end of free retests I belive. Anyway, places are still offering it.