IAAF says delay on MOT decision is “unacceptable”

The Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) is calling on the Government to make its decision on the MOT test frequency.  The Federation says the lack of clarity on the matter is harmful to the entire supply chain and “completely unacceptable”.

The Department for Transport (DfT) launched a public consultation in February 2023 on the future of MOTs in Great Britain. The Government’s preference is for the first passenger car test to be taken at four years old, modernising both the test frequency and the test.

IAAF chief executive, Mark Field, said: “We’re speaking to independent garages every day and they are really concerned for vehicle and driver safety, given the defects they see on vehicles of all ages within their workshops.

It is completely unacceptable that the automotive industry, which remained open to provide essential support throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, is being made to wait more than six months for an answer on its future and that of motorists’ safety.”

The IAAF, along with UK AFCAR and multiple trade associations, have opposed plans to extend the first test frequency, providing a substantial response to any Government plans.

According to figures from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), approximately 300,000 vehicles fail their first MOT test at three years.

DVSA data also shows that the failure rate on battery electric vehicles’ tyres at the first MOT of three years, is higher than on diesel vehicles.

Jim Lang, managing director at Garage Services Online said: “I agree with the IAAF. The time this decision is taking is an added layer of uncertainty for independent garages.

“It’s good to know the IAAF is writing to the Government asking for an indication of their proposals following the MOT consultation.”