Industry concerns over MOT changes

04/08/11

By Katrina McLachlan

Sections of the motor industry have expressed their opposition to government proposals to change MOT testing to every two years.

Transport Secretary Philip Hammond revealed earlier this year that a number of changes to MOT tests are being considered in response to more reliable and technologically advanced vehicles coming onto the market.

One of the proposals is delaying a car's first MOT test from three years after it was produced to four, with a further two-year gap followed by yearly tests once it hits six years old.

But a recent survey has revealed concern among motorists over how safe their vehicle would be if it was tested fewer times, with the majority of those questioned revealing they were against the proposed changes.

Martin Mosley, speaking for car spares provider Car Parts Direct, said: "Over a third of all the brakes we supply are for cars under three years old, which aren't even due for the test.

"Scrapping the annual MOT test is madness."