MOT partial retest Catch 22

koru

Just found to my cost that there are some loopholes in the partial retest rules, which garages can exploit to rip you off.

First, if you fail for simple things, such as lights, you are meant to get a free retest if you return the car and get it retested the next day. Trouble is, if the test centre can't fit you in the next day, that's your tough luck. So, they can just refuse to retest you that day, and collect an extra £25 for the partial retest a different day.

Second, if you leave the car for repair, and they do the partial retest within 10 days, they can't charge for the retest, but there's nothing to stop them saying they don't have the room to let you leave the car, in which case again they get to charge you £25 for the retest.

Obviously, a test centre that wants repeat business would not rip you off in this way, but it is disappointing that your "right" to a free retest is left to the whim of the test centre.

anewman

I recently got my MOT done at a local small garage. They charged £40. Some work needed doing but I asked if they could do it and they refused to do the work. They recommended another place as they could do the work much cheaper than they could. Now that's got to be honesty for you from an MOT testing garage with a sign saying they do this work. At least he can't be accused of making the MOT test go to his advantage and doing unneccessary work. Of course I have to return the car for a 1/2 price retest at the original place. Booked one today and got it for tomorrow. This is my first ever MOT test so looks like I may be lucky. Maybe I've found a gem of a garage.

ArsenalFC

Last year I found an MOT test centre that only carry out MOT tests and do not do any repairs. Had 2 cars passed 1st time there without problems, one of the car did required a couple of light bulbs replace and was charged £1 each for them. They will recommend you to a good local mechanic if your car need any work done.

They are located in Deptford SE London if anyone local want to know then this is there link: http://www.thetestcentre.co.uk/

Quinny_2

Ditto a one I have used in Leeds,about 10 miles away,for the past 3 years.

They only test,and don't do repairs,so they are under no obligation to fail it,just to get the work.

In fact,my Peugeot 406 HDi,failed in February,on the ever so complicated rear braking system,and the guy said after it had been repaired elsewhere,and re-tested,to bring it in next year prior to the test,and he would test the rear brakes on the rollers,to see if they needed doing,BEFORE the actual mot.

Can't fault that.

Ken.