Understanding the regulations relating to keeping your car MOTd and serviced during the pandemic can be difficult. Here, we'll shed some light on the current rules to help make sure you're able to drive as safely as possible.
Does My Car Need An MOT?
The answer is yes. Of course, this is always theanswer, but the issue might be confusing because for a six-month period in2020, there was an MOT extension. This meant that if your car's MOT was duebetween March 30th and August 1st, it would be extended, but if your MOT wasdue after that, you would not receive an extension. So in 2021, you need to getyour vehicle MOTd.
You have a month leading up to your MOT expirydate to get your vehicle tested.
Can Garages Actually Open?
MOTs and car repairs are considered essentialservices, so garages are staying open. There will, however, be appropriateCOVID-safe rules in place, which may include social distancing and the use offace masks and hand sanitiser. Your garage may also prefer you to pay by cardwherever possible, though this isn't a legal requirement, so it is up to eachindividual garage.
For your peace of mind, phone ahead to confirmany COVID-safe practices in effect at your preferred garage.
What About Car Servicing?
Getting your car serviced is not a legalrequirement. It is, however, essential if you want your vehicle to run assafely and reliably as possible. It may also be required if you have a warrantyactive on your vehicle, as some contracts require servicing to be handled by acertain dealer by a certain date every year, otherwise, the warranty is void.The same safety procedures will apply for servicing.
Check the small print of your service contract,warranty, or finance agreement to see the servicing stipulations.
In Conclusion
You still need to have an MOT during COVID, evenif you're not driving very much. The MOT extension period has long passed, andthe system is working as normal. If you're not driving at all, you may thinkabout getting a SORN for your car. SORN stands for Statutory Off-Road Noticeand basically tells the government you're not using your vehicle. You will nothave to insure or MOT it, but it must be kept off the public road. You willhave to re-insure it and provide an MOT if it has expired during your period ofnon-use before you can drive it again.
If you're looking for high-quality car grilles,take a look at our range at Zunsport today.