Aftermarket March 2023

10 AFTERMARKET MARCH 2023 BIG ISSUE www.aftermarketonline.net inspected and how its inspected, but vehicles have changed. Should we not be looking to impose tighter testing criteria on newer vehicles to ensure that the safety systems fitted are working? Point of note; Several of the mandated safety devices which have to be fitted to newer vehicles to be sold in the UK market are not even part of the MOT test currently. So, surely the statistics that say vehicles are more reliable do not portray a true image of the modern car parc. With this in mind, in my opinion some of the proposals being made are probably based on data that is not really reliable. “I know as a driver of a modern car that I am guilty of becoming more complacent about checking my vehicle, and I rely on the car to tell me when something needs maintenance like pumping up the tyres or filling the washer fluid. However, if that device is not working or has been incorrectly calibrated, or even been by-passed due to a problem, I could be driving an unsafe vehicle that is unfit for the road without even knowing about it. Technology on the vehicle currently can only go so far. This means we still need that independent validated set of eyes and tests using finely calibrated testing equipment in a MOT bay to keep us all safe. To me the issue is nothing to do with cost saving. If you are running a vehicle, you have an obligation to maintain it and keep it safe for everybody’s sake. I would prefer to see the cost of the MOT go up from this consultation. If vehicles were tested more stringently, we could ensure safer roads and a better environment for us all to live in.” Overdue for review The consultation, according to the IMI, provides an opportunity to widen the scope of the test. IMI Policy Manager Hayley Pells observed: “The advances seen in automotive technology and systems, for improved performance and safety as well as reduced environmental impact, mean the current MOT model is well overdue for review and the IMI welcomes the announcement of this public consultation. Although never a substitute for the recommended maintenance and repairs that motorists are responsible for in order to maintain roadworthiness, the current MOT test could be improved and new methods explored that better fit the current car parc, and the automotive technology of the future. For example, autonomous emergency braking is now more widely adopted and it is critical that motorists have the confidence that these systems are working correctly.” She added: “The question of MOT testing frequency is also part of the consultation. This is an important issue that has dominated the conversation about testing for some time. However, it is important to ensure that a focus on cost-saving does not put road users at heightened risk.” The IAAF put the case to keep the current 3-1-1 MOT frequency, as Mark Field, IAAF Chief Executive, observed: “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. As for advancements in technology, MOT failures are disproportionately high for electric vehicles when they are first tested at three years. Additionally, there will not be any official mileage or emissions checks recorded until after four years.” Changing the frequency of the MOT could affect general servicing too, as Mark noted: “Evidence also shows MOT and servicing is often done at the same time as each other, so a reduction in test frequency means a reduction in servicing, further separating a motorist’s responsibility on a vehicle’s roadworthiness. Delaying vehicle inspections may lead to higher repair costs for motorists who may not know that dangerous faults are developing with their vehicles. Despite advancements in vehicle technology, there is no evidence to support suggestions that modern vehicles are less likely to suffer from wear and tear and safety- related defects. And, with safety critical items, such as tyres and brakes, still the main cause for MOT failures, any extension is extremely concerning. 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.” Primary aspect Driver safety should be paramount when considering making changes to the MOT according to the NFDA, which also put the case to keep the MOT at a 3-1-1 frequency. NFDA Chief Executive Sue Robinson said: “The primary aspect to consider when proposing changes to the MOT system is the safety of motorists as a result of