If you fail your MOT test, you cannot legally drive your car on public roads unless you already have a valid MOT certificate that hasn’t expired. You’ll receive a VT30 refusal certificate listing all the faults that need fixing before you can get your vehicle roadworthy again.
Don’t panic. A failed MOT isn’t the end of the world, and you have several options to get back on the road legally. This guide explains exactly what happens next, your rights, costs involved, and the smartest ways to handle the situation.
Understanding Your MOT Failure Certificate
When your vehicle fails its MOT, you’ll receive a VT30 refusal certificate instead of the standard VT20 pass certificate. This document is crucial – it contains vital information about your next steps.
What’s on Your VT30 Certificate
Your refusal certificate shows:
- Dangerous defects – Items that make your car unsafe to drive
- Major defects – Faults that affect safety or the environment significantly
- Minor defects – Issues that don’t affect safety but should be monitored
- Advisory items – Things to keep an eye on for future MOTs
The certificate also includes your vehicle’s details, test date, and the testing centre information.
Types of MOT Failures Explained
| Defect Type | Can You Drive? | Action Required |
|---|---|---|
| Dangerous | No – immediate prohibition | Must fix before any driving |
| Major | No – unless valid MOT exists | Must fix for retest |
| Minor | Yes – if current MOT valid | Monitor for future |
Dangerous defects mean your vehicle is immediately prohibited from use. These include issues like broken headlights, worn brake pads, or damaged tyres. You cannot drive the car anywhere, even to a garage.
Major defects prevent your MOT pass but aren’t necessarily dangerous. If your current MOT hasn’t expired, you can still drive legally until it runs out.
Your Legal Driving Status After MOT Failure
This is where many drivers get confused. Your driving rights depend entirely on whether you still have a valid MOT certificate.
If Your Current MOT Is Still Valid
You can continue driving legally until your existing MOT expires. However, you should:
- Fix the faults as soon as possible
- Book a retest before your current MOT runs out
- Avoid driving if dangerous defects were identified
If Your MOT Has Already Expired
You cannot drive on public roads at all. The only exceptions are:
- Driving directly to a pre-booked MOT appointment
- Driving to a garage for repairs (with evidence of a booked retest)
- Moving the vehicle for essential safety reasons
Important: You need valid insurance for these journeys. The DVLA guidance makes clear that driving without a valid MOT can result in fines up to £1,000.
Your Options After Failing MOT
You have three main paths forward when your MOT fails:
Option 1: Get Repairs and Retest
This is usually the most cost-effective approach:
- Get quotes from the testing centre and other garages
- Compare prices – you’re not obligated to use the original test centre
- Book repairs at your chosen garage
- Arrange retest once work is completed
Top tip: Many independent garages offer competitive prices compared to MOT test centres, especially for common repairs like brake pads or bulbs.
Option 2: Appeal the MOT Result
You can appeal if you believe:
- The tester made an error
- Your vehicle was damaged during testing
- The test wasn’t conducted properly
How to appeal:
- Contact the test centre manager immediately
- Request a Vehicle and Operator Services Agency (VOSA) inspection
- Pay the £54 appeal fee (refunded if successful)
- Present evidence supporting your case
Appeals must be made within 14 days of the test. The DVSA complaints process provides full details.
Option 3: Scrap or Sell Your Vehicle
If repair costs exceed the car’s value, you might consider:
- Scrapping through an authorised treatment facility
- Selling for parts to recoup some money
- Trading in with a dealer who handles disposal
The MOT Retest Process
Understanding retests can save you money and hassle.
Free Partial Retests
You’re entitled to a free partial retest if:
- You return within 10 working days of the original test
- You use the same test centre
- You only retest the items that failed
This free retest only covers the specific faults listed on your VT30 certificate. It won’t include a full inspection of other components.
Full Retests
You’ll need a full retest (and pay the full fee again) if:
- More than 10 working days have passed
- You use a different test centre
- Additional work was done beyond the original failures
Current MOT test fees are £54.85 for cars, but many centres offer competitive rates or package deals with repairs.
Common MOT Failures and Typical Costs
Knowing typical failure rates and costs helps you budget and negotiate:
Most Common MOT Failures
- Lighting defects (18.9% of failures) – £5-£50
- Suspension issues (13.4% of failures) – £80-£400
- Brake problems (10.7% of failures) – £100-£300
- Tyre defects (7.8% of failures) – £50-£150 per tyre
- Steering faults (6.7% of failures) – £50-£200
Estimated Repair Costs
| Common Fault | Typical Cost Range | Time to Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Brake pads | £80-£150 | 1-2 hours |
| Headlight bulb | £5-£25 | 15 minutes |
| Wiper blades | £10-£30 | 10 minutes |
| Exhaust repair | £50-£200 | 1-3 hours |
| Tyre replacement | £50-£150 each | 30 minutes |
These are rough estimates. Always get written quotes before authorising work.
Money-Saving Tips After MOT Failure
Shop Around for Repairs
Don’t automatically use the test centre for repairs. Many focus on testing rather than competitive repair pricing. Get quotes from:
- Local independent garages
- Fast-fit chains for tyres and exhausts
- Mobile mechanics for simple jobs
- DIY for basic items like bulbs and wipers
Buy Parts Yourself
For straightforward items, consider:
- Buying parts online – often 50% cheaper than garage prices
- Supplying parts to your mechanic (check they’ll fit them)
- Euro Car Parts, GSF, or similar for trade prices
Time Your Retest Strategically
- Book early morning slots when testers are fresh
- Avoid Fridays when centres may rush
- Clean your car – dirty vehicles often get closer scrutiny
What About Your Insurance?
Your insurance remains valid even with a failed MOT, but there are important considerations:
Claiming After MOT Failure
- Insurance covers you for accidents regardless of MOT status
- However, insurers might reduce payouts if the failure contributed to the accident
- Always disclose MOT status when making claims
Renewal Considerations
Some insurers ask about MOT status during renewal. A recent failure might:
- Increase your premium slightly
- Require additional documentation
- Trigger vehicle inspection requirements
Most insurers are reasonable about MOT failures if you’re actively addressing them.
Preventing Future MOT Failures
Regular maintenance prevents most MOT failures. The RAC’s MOT statistics show that well-maintained cars have much higher pass rates.
Monthly Checks
- Lights – all bulbs working, including indicators and hazards
- Tyres – tread depth above 1.6mm, no damage or bulges
- Brakes – responsive pedal, no grinding noises
- Windscreen – no chips larger than £20 coin in driver’s view
- Fluids – oil, coolant, brake fluid, screen wash
Pre-MOT Inspections
Book a pre-MOT check 4-6 weeks before your test expires. Many garages offer these for £20-£30. They identify issues early when you have time to:
- Shop around for parts
- Get multiple quotes
- Plan the work around your schedule
Understanding Your Rights
What Test Centres Must Do
MOT centres must:
- Explain failures clearly in plain English
- Provide written estimates for any repair work
- Allow you to observe the test (though most don’t recommend it)
- Store your vehicle safely if repairs are ongoing
What You Can Demand
You have the right to:
- Refuse repair work and take your vehicle elsewhere
- Request specific failed items be retested only
- See the tester’s notes and ask questions about failures
- Appeal decisions you believe are incorrect
Test Centre Obligations
Reputable test centres follow DVSA guidelines strictly. They should:
- Test to consistent standards
- Explain technical issues clearly
- Provide fair pricing for any additional services
- Handle appeals professionally
When to Consider Scrapping Your Vehicle
Sometimes repair costs make continuing uneconomical. Consider scrapping if:
- Repair costs exceed 50% of the vehicle’s value
- Multiple major systems need replacement
- The vehicle is over 15 years old with high mileage
- You’re planning to replace it within 6 months anyway
Scrapping Process
- Contact authorised treatment facilities for quotes
- Remove personal items and valuable components
- Cancel insurance and SORN the vehicle with DVLA
- Get a certificate of destruction for your records
Environmental note: Proper scrapping through authorised facilities ensures responsible recycling of materials and fluids.
Regional Variations and Local Considerations
MOT requirements are consistent across the UK, but local factors can affect your experience:
Urban vs Rural Testing
- City centres often have more test centres but higher prices
- Rural areas may have limited options but more personal service
- Booking times vary significantly by location
Regional Price Differences
Test fees are standard, but repair costs vary:
- London and Southeast typically 20-30% more expensive
- Northern England and Scotland often more competitive
- Wales and Southwest moderate pricing with good service levels
Summary: Your Action Plan After MOT Failure
When your MOT fails, follow this step-by-step approach:
Immediate Steps:
- Check your legal driving status – can you still drive on your current MOT?
- Review your VT30 certificate – understand what needs fixing
- Assess danger levels – any dangerous defects mean no driving at all
Planning Phase: 4. Get multiple repair quotes – don’t commit to the first price 5. Research part costs – consider supplying your own for expensive items
6. Book retest strategically – within 10 days for free partial retest
Decision Time: 7. Compare total costs – repairs plus retest versus vehicle value 8. Consider timing – can you wait or do you need immediate fixes? 9. Choose your approach – repair, appeal, or dispose of the vehicle
Most MOT failures cost under £200 to fix. With the right approach, you’ll be back on the road legally and safely without breaking the bank.
Remember: A failed MOT is a common experience – around 40% of cars fail first time. Stay calm, understand your options, and make informed decisions based on your specific situation and budget.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive my car home after it fails its MOT?
Only if you still have a valid MOT certificate that hasn’t expired. If your MOT has already run out, you cannot drive on public roads except directly to a pre-booked MOT test or for repairs.
How long do I have to fix my car after MOT failure?
There’s no legal time limit, but you get a free partial retest if you return within 10 working days to the same test centre. After that, you’ll pay full test fees again.
Can I refuse repairs at the MOT centre and go elsewhere?
Absolutely. You’re under no obligation to have repairs done at the test centre. You can take your vehicle anywhere for repairs, but remember the restrictions on driving with an expired MOT.
Will my insurance be affected by a failed MOT?
Your insurance remains valid, but insurers might reduce claim payouts if the MOT failure contributed to an accident. Some may ask about MOT status at renewal time.
What’s the difference between major and dangerous defects?
Dangerous defects make your vehicle immediately unsafe to drive anywhere. Major defects prevent your MOT pass but aren’t necessarily immediately dangerous – you can still drive if your current MOT is valid.