The UK’s annual MOT test fee – capped at £54.85 for the past 15 years – is under scrutiny, with garages split on whether a price hike is necessary or counterproductive. A government review, triggered by a petition from the Independent Garages Association (IGA), is now underway to determine if the current cap reflects modern business costs.
Rising Costs vs. Competitive Pressure
Garages argue that an increase is long overdue, citing rising wages, equipment costs, and stringent safety regulations imposed by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA). Some estimate the fee should be closer to £70 to cover operational expenses.
However, this isn’t a consensus view. Many fear that substantially increasing prices could deter drivers, leading to a more aggressive price war than already exists. Some garages currently absorb losses on MOT tests to attract new customers, a practice that may be unsustainable if fees rise too sharply.
The Government’s Perspective
The Department for Transport (DfT) is also reviewing MOT charges for larger vehicles (HGVs, buses, and trailers), with a proposed increase of around 10%. Applying this same percentage to car tests would raise the cap to roughly £59.85.
Why This Matters
The debate over MOT pricing highlights the tension between maintaining affordable vehicle safety checks and ensuring the financial viability of garages. The current system incentivizes volume over margin, with some businesses prioritizing customer acquisition over profit on each test.
The IGA believes a fairer framework is needed, one that acknowledges the true costs of testing. But raising prices too high risks driving customers away from legitimate garages and toward unregulated alternatives.
The outcome of this review will likely shape the future of MOT testing in the UK, balancing affordability with sustainability for businesses.
