The fee has not changed for 16 years, despite the increase in business costs and requirements. Many MOT stations reduce fees to increase footfall, but it is having a detrimental impact on the industry.

“The call from the IAAF to set a minimum fee of £54.85 is not good enough. This enables garages to bottom-feed and why would we further undervalue our industry by setting a floor price? In the public’s opinion, that will be all they think we are worth. People will see that and ask why all garages don’t charge that low fee. How is this any better for the industry? The MOT fee is far less than an hourly rate and it devalues the equipment, training and qualifications needed to carry out MOTs, and the rising costs of running a business. The automotive industry is so often overlooked,” Mr Hooper said.

“ I suggest we strike for one day and see what backlog this creates with DVSA. I have written the IGA suggesting this and have also responded to one of their questionnaires, stating this. Other industries that offer a service to the Government do not seem to be ashamed of charging what they see fit. Why is the automotive running scared? If MOT stations did this maybe the Government and consumers will realise how important we are to the nation and how we independently keep safe cars on the road.

“Based on inflation, it should be approx. £90 now per MOT.”

Source: https://garagewire.co.uk