IGA Calls for Government to Increase MOT Fee as Matter of Urgency

The Independent Garage Association (IGA) continues to call on Government to urgently review the current MOT fee for class 4, 5 and 7 vehicles, which has now remained static for 16 years despite the significant increases in costs that independent garages have incurred during this time.

 

The IGA has again written to senior officials at the Department for Transport as well as the Treasury to make the case for the urgent need to increase the current MOT fee. This is following the Department for Transport communicating with the IGA their expectation to consult with stakeholders on this matter towards the latter part of 2025.

 

The current MOT fee cap for class 4 vehicles has remained unchanged, at £54.85 since 2010. It is well documented how much costs have increased as a result of inflation alone since 2010 when the fee was last reviewed.

 

However, during this time, independent garages have also incurred and continue to incur cost pressures over and above inflation relating to labour, rent, equipment, fuel, energy, compliance and administrative costs.

 

Whilst the DVSA, has this week, announced increases to MOT fees for busses, coaches, HGVs and trailers – the fees for class 4, 5 and 7 vehicles have not been included as part of these announcements.

 

IGA members continue to raise their concerns that the current fee is making MOT testing work unsustainable given both the additional cost pressures and the growing complexities involved in testing modern vehicles.

 

Stuart James, CEO of the Independent Garage Association, comments that, “Our members are advising us that the current situation, relating to the stagnant MOT fee cap, is leading to garages setting up their facilities to prioritise more profitable work, reducing the number of bays available for MOT testing and therefore reducing the national capacity.

 

We need to ensure that independent garages are able to prioritise the availability of workshop facilities and resources for this vital service. If the MOT does not remain economically viable for garages, this would have a significant impact on consumer choice with regards to accessibility, locality and convenience of available MOT test stations.”

 

MOT test stations play a vital role in keeping people safe on our roads by ensuring safety critical vehicle components are properly maintained including tyres, brakes, steering, suspension, lights, electrical equipment and emissions.

 

The MOT test is one of the cornerstones of the UK’s road safety success and has helped ensure that the UK has some of the safest roads across both Europe and the rest of the world.

 

The Independent Garage Association, therefore, continues to call on Government to review the current MOT fee, which the IGA firmly believes should be significantly higher than the current £54.85.

 

 

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Contact information:

 

Andrew Richmond
Communications and Marketing Manager

Independent Garage Association
Phone: 01788 538 323
Email: andy.richmond@rmif.co.uk

Web: independentgarageassociation.co.uk

 

Notes to Editors:

 

About the Independent Garage Association (IGA):

The Independent Garage Association (IGA) is the largest and most prominent trade association representing independent garages in the UK. The IGA supports its members by providing guidance, resources, and advocacy to ensure the success and sustainability of independent garages nationwide.