Owning a car comes with responsibilities, and two of the most important are keeping up with your MOT and regular servicing. While they’re often mentioned together, they serve different purposes. Understanding what each one involves, and why both matter, can help you stay safe, legal, and avoid costly repairs down the line.
What Is an MOT?
An MOT is a legal requirement in the UK for vehicles that are three years old or more. It’s an annual test designed to check whether your car meets minimum road safety and environmental standards. During an MOT, key components such as brakes, lights, tyres, suspension, steering, seatbelts, and emissions are inspected.
It’s important to remember that an MOT is not a guarantee that your car is in perfect condition. It simply confirms that, on the day of the test, your vehicle meets the legal requirements to be on the road. A car can pass an MOT and still need repairs or maintenance shortly after.
What Is a Car Service?
A car service is a routine maintenance check that focuses on the overall health of your vehicle. Unlike an MOT, servicing is not a legal requirement, but it’s strongly recommended. A service typically includes oil and filter changes, fluid checks, brake inspections, and an assessment of wear-and-tear items.
There are different types of services, such as interim services, full services, and major services. The right one depends on how often you drive, the age of your car, and the manufacturer’s recommendations. Regular servicing helps keep your car running smoothly and can extend its lifespan.
Key Differences Between MOT and Service
The main difference is purpose. An MOT checks whether your car is legally roadworthy, while a service helps maintain performance and reliability. An MOT looks at safety and emissions only, whereas a service involves preventative maintenance.
Another key difference is frequency. MOTs are required once a year, while servicing may be recommended every 6 to 12 months or after a certain mileage. Many drivers choose to book both at the same time for convenience.
Why You Need Both
Relying on an MOT alone isn’t enough. A car that only receives an MOT each year may develop issues that go unnoticed until they become serious. Regular servicing helps catch problems early, reducing the risk of breakdowns and expensive repairs.
Having a full service history can also increase your car’s resale value. Buyers are more likely to trust a vehicle that has been properly maintained rather than one that has only had basic legal checks.
Tips for Car Owners
- Book your MOT early to avoid last-minute stress
- Follow your manufacturer’s service schedule
- Address advisory notes from your MOT promptly
- Keep records of all MOTs and services
Final Thoughts
Both MOT and service play an important role in car ownership. An MOT keeps you legal, while regular servicing keeps your car healthy and reliable. By understanding the difference and staying on top of both,
