Servicing vs MOT – Do You Need Both?

Car maintenance is a routine aspect of owning a vehicle and one that can be confusing for many drivers. Two common terms you may hear are “servicing” and “MOT,” but what do they mean, and do you need both? In this blog post, we’ll explore the differences between these two types of maintenance and help you understand which is necessary for your car’s upkeep.

Before we dive into the details, let me tell you a story about my friend, Sarah. Sarah is a proud car owner, and she always makes sure her car is in top condition. However, one day, she got pulled over by the police and told that her car’s MOT had expired. Confused and frustrated, Sarah realized she had overlooked this important aspect of car maintenance. This experience made her realize that understanding the differences between servicing and MOT Leicester is crucial for any car owner.

Now, let’s get started!

What is a Service?

A car service is a comprehensive check-up of your vehicle by a qualified mechanic. This check-up includes inspecting and replacing parts that get worn or damaged, such as brakes, batteries, fluids, and filters. The aim of a service is to ensure that your car is running smoothly and safely and to prevent any potential problems before they occur.

There are different types of car services, including interim, full, and major services. Interim services are usually performed every 6 months or 6,000 miles and include basic checks such as oil and filter changes. Full services are always performed every 12 months or 12,000 miles and include more extensive checks and replacements. Major services are mainly performed every 24 months or 24,000 miles and include a thorough inspection of all parts of the vehicle.

It’s important to note that while services are not legally required, they are highly recommended by car manufacturers and mechanics. Regular servicing can help extend the life of your car, improve fuel efficiency, and reduce the risk of breakdowns.

What is an MOT?

MOT stands for Ministry of Transport, and it’s a mandatory annual test for all vehicles over 3 years old in the UK. The test is mainly designed to ensure that your car meets the minimum safety and environmental standards set by the government.

The MOT test includes checks on the car’s brakes, steering, suspension, exhaust, and emissions. If any of these components fail the test, they must get repaired or replaced before the car can pass. The test also includes checks on the car’s lights, seat belts, and tyres. While a service focuses on preventative maintenance and ensuring your car is running smoothly, an MOT focuses on safety and environmental standards.

If a vehicle fails its MOT test, the examiner will provide a list of the faults and the necessary repairs to bring the vehicle up to the required standard. The faults will be mainly categorized as either "major," "dangerous," or "minor."

Once the necessary repairs get completed, you can take your vehicle for a retest within 10 working days of the initial test. If you take it back within this timeframe, you will only need to pay for a partial retest of the specific items that failed. If you wait longer than 10 working days, you will need to pay for a full MOT test again.

It's recommended to have your vehicle repaired as soon as possible after the MOT test to ensure it is safe and roadworthy.

Do I Need Both?

Although a service and an MOT have different functions, both are necessary for your car's maintenance.

As we mentioned earlier, a service can help prevent potential problems and extend the life of your car. Regular servicing can also help identify any issues that may cause your car to fail an MOT, such as worn brakes or tyres. By addressing these issues during a service, you can increase the chances of passing your MOT.

On the other hand, an MOT is a legal requirement, and failing to have one can result in a fine and even the suspension of your car’s license. Even if your car passes its MOT, it’s still important to have regular servicing to ensure its continued safety and longevity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while servicing and MOT Test Leicester are two different types of car maintenance, they are equally important for the upkeep of your vehicle. Regular servicing can help prevent potential problems and extend the life of your car, while an MOT ensures that your car meets the minimum safety and environmental standards set by the government. By understanding the differences between these two types of maintenance and staying up-to-date with both, you can ensure the safety and longevity of your car.