IAAF to fight government plans to extend MOT

The Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) will fight any proposals to extend the MOT test frequency, following an announcement by the Department for Transport (DFT) to launch a public consultation on the future of Mots.

Any increase in the first test frequency will see the number of defective vehicles on UK roads rise, which could also lead to more road accidents and fatalities, according to the IAAF.

Despite advancements in vehicle technology, there is actually no evidence to support suggestions that modern vehicles are less likely to suffer from wear and tear and safety-related defects. For example, the IAAF reports MOT failures are disproportionately high for electric vehicles when they are first tested at three years.

Evidence also shows MOT and servicing are often done at the same time as each other, so a reduction in test frequency could also mean a reduction in servicing, which in turn may lead to higher repair costs for motorists who may not know that dangerous faults are developing with their vehicles. Perhaps the biggest cause for concern though, should the government proposals go ahead, is the neglect of safety critical items, such as tyres and brakes, which are still the main cause for MOT failures.

Mark Field, IAAF chief executive, said: “The DFT has put forward no credible argument for changing the MOT first test from three years to four years. It’s bad for the motorist, the environment, the public and motor industry and we will fight any measures that threaten road safety.”

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