Free MOT Retests From AP Autocare
If and when your vehicle fails its MOT you can leave it with the MOT test centre for them to repair the issues and retest it for no extra cost. As long as the partial retest is done within 10 days of the original MOT then the retest is carried for free. This ensures you have enough time to make any required repairs prior to the retest for a pass.
Most MOT centres will also retest it for you if you take your vehicle away to be repaired and then bring it back before the end of the next working day. Remember though you should not drive your vehicle if its MOT has expired even if you are planning to take it back for a retest.
An MOT retest is not a full test. A partial retest is where the vehicle’s failed points are re-examined and tested again. If the vehicle fails on any of the partial re-test it then has to go through a full MOT and this is chargeable at the full rate.
If a vehicle’s existing MOT certificate is still valid as it has been taken to be tested before its expiry date then it can still be driven as long as there are points that have failed as ‘dangerous’ failures.
In May 2018, new regulations were put in place for MOT’s and MOT outcomes. Prior to this, MOT checklists were marked as pass or fail, now points are marked as minor, major or dangerous.
Following an MOT a vehicle is issued with a pass, a failure or an advisory on specific points on the checklist.
Minor MOT Faults
Minor MOT faults are considered to be a problem that does not cause an immediate safety risk but should be rectified as soon as possible. If a car only has minor faults, it will be given an MOT pass certificate.
Major MOT Faults
A major fault is more serious as it could be a safety risk to drivers and others in your car or others on the road. Major faults are also classed as having a damaging effect on the environment (a vehicle’s emissions). These failures will indefinitely result in an MOT failure until the issues have been rectified. If the vehicle still has a valid MOT from the previous year, it can still be driven, but only until the MOT expiry date.
Dangerous MOT Faults
A dangerous fault is one that poses an immediate risk to the safety of the driver and other road users and will result in an immediate MOT failure. Unlike a major fault, the vehicle cannot be driven even if it has a valid MOT certificate. The car can only be driven when the failure has been rectified and it passes its MOT retest.
MOT Retest FAQ’s
Can I take my car to another garage if it fails its MOT?
Yes, you can take your car to another garage for its retest as long as the original MOT is still in date and no points have been failed as dangerous. AP Autocare will quote you for the work that needs doing and retest it for you within the required timescales. This takes the stress out of finding another garage to carry out the repairs and rebooking it for its retest.
Is a failed MOT or are failure points recorded?
If your vehicle fails the MOT or has specific failure points then these are recorded on the MOT database. If it fails you will receive a ‘refusal of an MOT test certificate’ from the MOT test centre.
Minor, Major and Dangerous MOT Faults are all recorded in the national MOT database.
Is there a grace period for an MOT?
A lot of people think there is a 2 week grace period for lapsed MOTs which allows them to get their vehicle booked in for their MOT, however, this is not the case. Your MOT expires on its expiry date and it is illegal to drive without an MOT. You cannot drive without an MOT unless you are driving to a pre-booked test at an authorised test centre.
Is your insurance invalid without MOT?
In most cases, your vehicles insurance is invalid if you drive it without an MOT and you will be breaking the law if you are driving without valid insurance.
Can you get an early MOT?
You can book your vehicle in for an early MOT and the earliest date is 1 month (minus a day) before its existing MOT certificate expires. You can get your MOT carried out before this, however, its MOT will then be valid from 12 months from the new test date.
About AP Autocare
AP Autocare has been in operation in Bristol for over 40 years. We are known as one of the most reputable and independent repairs, service and MOT Centres in Bristol.
We are within walking distance from Bristol City Centre and Temple Meads Train Station and are ideal for your MOT, Service or Repair if you work in the city centre or surrounding areas.
Our services are trustworthy, friendly, professional and our prices competitive. We are a recognised garage for many makes and models and offer the same levels of service but without the costs associated with main dealer garages. We have dealer level diagnostic equipment with main dealer knowledge and expertise.
We are a fully qualified and certified MOT Test Centre.
We offer services for all vehicles of any age and size from small cars to light commercial vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes (Class 7):
Our Services:
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MOT’s
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Bodywork & Paint Repairs
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Engine Diagnostics and Repair
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Annual and Interim Services
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Air Conditioning
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Tyres & Exhausts
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Brakes
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Clutches
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Remapping
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Suspension & Steering
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Welding
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Battery Testing & Replacement
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Wheel Alignment
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Tyre Replacement
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Remapping
If you are looking for a trusted and honest MOT or an MOT retest, contact us today on 0117 963 8916 and one of our experts will answer any questions you may have and arrange an appointment for you. Alternatively, book your vehicle in for an MOT using our online form.