More than one million drivers have been caught travelling without an up-to-date MOT for their vehicles causing huge safety risks for Britons, a report has revealed.
The dresearch also found that a further 690,000 drivers are unsure whether their car is due for a service despite MOT’s being a national requirement.
The data comes as approximately 34 million cars were recorded being on UK roads last year, with as many as two million vehicles having potential defects.
The findings have now raised significant concerns about road safety and vehicle maintenance standards across the country.
Do you have a story you’d like to share? Get in touch by emailing[email protected]
Drivers avoided getting vehicles checked to help save on costs
PA
Regular servicing plays a crucial role in identifying potential safety hazards on vehicles as well as helping crackdown on costly repairs, experts have warned.
These checks can detect worn-out brakes, damaged tyres, and engine problems that could pose risks to drivers and other road users.
The inspections also cover steering issues and electrical malfunctions, ensuring vehicles remain safe for operation. Beyond safety, regular servicing can improve a vehicle’s fuel efficiency and extend its lifespan, experts noted.
The report revealed that cost emerged as the primary barrier to vehicle servicing, with a third of UK drivers (33 per cent) citing affordability concerns.
A quarter of motorists (25 per cent) noted skipping services because they believe their car is “running fine” and doesn’t require inspection.
Time constraints affected 13 per cent of drivers, while 12 per cent expressed concerns about finding a trustworthy garage. One in 10 drivers also admitted they were unaware of recommended servicing schedules.
However a small proportion of drivers (six per cent) consider their vehicles too old to warrant the investment in servicing.
Notably, dealerships were recorded as being the preferred choice in the first two years of ownership, with 52 per cent of drivers choosing them over independent garages (28 per cent).
But this trend reverses once vehicles reach five to six years old, typically after warranty expiration. At this point, most motorists were recorded opting for independent garages (52 per cent) rather than dealerships (31 per cent).This shift is likely driven by cost considerations and the end of warranty-related contractual obligations.
Two-thirds of drivers (66 per cent) cite vehicle safety as their primary motivation for servicing. Over half (55 per cent) seek to prevent breakdowns, while 35 per cent aim to maintain resale value.
Katie Lomas Green Flag’s Managing Director said: “To see such a large number of vehicles on the road without being serviced recently is concerning for both drivers and other road users.
“It can increase the likelihood of breakdowns and accidents, which could be easily avoided by getting it regularly checked by a professional.”
LATEST DEVELOPMENTS:
Vehicles are required to complete an MOT test yearly to ensure they are still in roadworthy condition
THE MOTOR OMBUDSMAN
She added: “Ensuring your vehicle is kept fully serviced is important for several reasons. Primarily for safety and peace of mind while driving, but also potentially reducing running costs and the likelihood of either a breakdown or experiencing further issues in the long run.”
Under UK law drivers can be fined up to £2,500 for driving an unroadworthy vehicle plus three penalty points but in more serious cases they could be disqualified from driving.
