MOT due at end of 3 year Skoda Solutions

Needtogetoutmore

Hi,

We have a car on a Skoda Solutions deal. The contract is actually an HP agreement for 3 years with the final monthly payment to include an 'option to purchase' amount. The contract was signed on 5/3/2014 and the car handed to us on 9/3/2014. The final payment will be on 7/3/2017. The car was registered on 8/3/2014 so needs an MOT from 8/3/2017. We are handing the car back rather than purchasing it, and have requested collection ASAP as we already have another car now. The finance co says that if it doesn't need an MOT when collected then fine but if it needs one when collected, we must MOT it first. We are presently awaiting an inspection and collection date from British Car Auctions, but are told that they are now booking from 9/3/2017 onwards. There are no known problems with the car, but obviously we don't want the hassle or expense of getting an MOT test done. It isn't specifically mentioned in the contract. Do we have to now quickly get it tested?

Also, can we cancel vehicle tax (declare it SORN if need be) as it is not on the public road, to avoid paying the cost of tax for March?

Many thanks folks in anticipation...

CardinalWolsey

On what date does your agreement cease? March 5th (the anniversary of signing), 7th (your final payment date), 8th (car registration date) or 9th (anniversary of you taking receipt of vehicle)? If the 9th, you would need to MOT. You could SORN, but remember you would also need to have the car insured until they collect (or perhaps until you can deliver the car to them (or the original dealer?)).

Needtogetoutmore

I suppose that was my question really, i.e. it's not clear which date is the relevant one. Have been back in touch with the finance co, who say the end date is 7 March, and that we are advised to Mot the car, as if we don't then BCA will do so and will charge us for doing so, which will be expensive.

debtdebt

If they've said that to you, I'd get it done before handing it back. You never know what tricks BCA will get up to when arranging to MOT your car.

If it's just 3 years old, I doubt it'll need anything doing to pass. Just check the usual suspects yourself i.e. bulbs, wipers etc.

Robisere

You don't have to wait for the date due: an MOT test can be made up to a month before the due date and a 13 month ticket issued for a Pass.

Needtogetoutmore

Thanks both, Mot is now booked.