The cost of MOT tests on cars could nearly double under new guidelines being proposed to the Government.
Currently, the maximum price a motorist can be charged for a standard car MOT in the UK is £54.85, following the cap placed in 2010.
However, a trade body that represents vehicle garages is calling for the Government to increase the cap by 73% to £95.
Independent Garage Association (IGA) suggests that the current cost of an MOT test is not in line with inflation and does not take in to accout the costs of labour, rent, energy and fuel.
MOT tests on cars could rise under proposed plans
IGA will meet with the Department for Transport (DfT) on October 21 to discuss raising the MOT price cap.
Discussing its proposal, Stuart James, chief executive of the IGA, said: "It is a fact that the current MOT fee has remained static for 16 years.
"We are being advised by garage owners that without a significant increase to the MOT fee, they cannot continue to sustain this ever-increasing cost burden.
"As the representative body for the independent garage sector, the IGA will continue to challenge the Government to deliver an acceptable resolution to this issue before it causes a level of consumer detriment."
Despite the IGA's calls, the DfT has said that it currently has no plans to increase MOT fees.
Recommended Reading
- 4.5 million drivers risk fines over a car insurance myth many still believe
- Drivers face £100,000 in costs for breaking motorway rule introduced 12 years ago
- Motorists could be driving with fake MOTs as expert shares 5 signs to look out for
A spokesperson for the DfT said, "We have no current plans to increase the MOT fee, but keep it under constant review, working with the DVSA and the sector to balance affordability for motorists with the financial sustainability of garages."
While the cap on MOT tests for cars is being discussed, the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) did increase MOT fees for HGVs and coaches earlier this year.
Do you think the price cap on MOT tests for cars should be increased? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
Share