It’s not uncommon for people to confuse taking their car to the garage for an MOT or a service, and there are a lot of misconceptions about what it means to have these services carried out on your vehicle.
While the differences are more obvious for experienced drivers, many new licence holders are unaware of the key differences between the two and admittedly, it can be pretty confusing.
In this post, the team at CJ Auto explores everything you need to know about the importance of vehicle maintenance and the difference between the services we offer here at our garage in Warrington.
What exactly is an MOT?
All cars that are over 3 years old require an MOT test each year.
The test follows a strict checklist of criteria set out by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) that determine if your car is roadworthy or not.
Your vehicle might require additional work to pass your MOT, but the test itself doesn’t cover any repairs or replacement parts you need.
During your MOT service with us, one of our mechanics will check over the following areas:
- Vehicle identification number and registration plates
- Lights
- Steering and suspension
- Wipers and washer bottle
- Windscreen
- Horn
- Seatbelts
- Fuel system and emissions
- Bodywork
- Doors and mirrors
- Wheels and tyres
- Brakes
If a mechanic flags up any problems in these areas, you must make a separate booking for parts to be repaired or replaced – so that you can, legally, take your car out on the roads again.
What about a service?
In some ways, a service is quite similar to an MOT, and both include checks for your brakes, seat belts and tyres.
However, a service is much more meticulous – the main difference being the inclusion of replacement or maintenance of parts to keep your car running as smoothly as possible and improve vehicle performance.
What’s the difference?
To put it simply, an MOT ensures that your car is safe enough to be on the roads and that it meets the requirements set out by the DVSA, while a service is to get your car back into optimum condition.
Even if you pass your MOT, this isn’t to say your car is in the best possible running state – so it’s just as important to have your vehicle serviced as it is to book your MOT.
Are they both legal requirements?
MOTs are a legal requirement in the UK. Driving without one could result in a police caution and potentially carry massive penalty fees of up to £2,500, lead to points on your licence or result in a driving disqualification in the most severe cases.
You aren’t required to have your vehicle serviced by law, but it’s highly recommended by garages across the UK that you do, making sure to book it with your annual MOT test.
Failing to have a service carried out at least annually could result in your car’s performance declining drastically and lead to some potentially costly repairs.
Book your MOT and vehicle service with CJ Auto
If your MOT renewal date is approaching, why not make an appointment with the experts at CJ Auto Service?
We’re recognised as an approved garage by the DVSA, and all of our MOT tests are carried out by certified mechanics.
While MOTs are completely different from getting a service, they’re both still essential. This is why we believe it’s always best to schedule them at the same time, to make sure your car is not only worthy of the roads but also in tip-top condition.
If you need further information about what happens when you bring your car in for a service or MOT, or your certificate is expiring soon, give us a call on 01925 589 066. Alternatively, email reception@cjautoservice.co.uk and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can!
