MOT outrage - 80 per cent of drivers want government to ditch THIS new plan
BRITISH motorists have got behind keeping the first MOT test for cars at three years, opposed to the proposed four years.
Almost 80 per cent of motorists say they want an MOT after three years, after safety concerns.
According to new research published by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) 76 per cent of motorists want to keep the MOT test structure the same.
New government plans want to push back the date of the first MOT date to after four years, as newer cars are a lot safer than older vehicles.
Currently, all cars in the UK must undergo an MOT test when they reach three years old, and then annually thereafter.
The Government argue, however, that delaying the first test by 13 months could save motorists £100million per year, or £45 over a vehicles lifetime.
However, 83 per cent of drivers believe that the £45 fee is worth the peace of mind, knowing their car is safe.
Over two thirds of drivers believe that the new laws could put themselves and other road users at tasks.
While new car features such as tyre pressure monitoring systems, lane departure warning or wet weather tyre performance, is making cars safer, general wear and tear could still make them lethal.
How to check your tyres and avoid fines
The research also revealed that 17 per cent of all cars taking their first MOT after three years do not meet the minimum safety requirements.
We urge government to scrap its plans to change a test system
Based on this evidence an additional three million more cars could be unfit to drive if the first MOT test is postponed.
Mike Hawes, SMMT Chief Executive, said, “The MOT is an essential check on the safety and roadworthiness of vehicles.
“Extending the first test for cars from three to four years is not what consumers or industry want given the serious risk posed to road safety and vehicles’ environmental performance.
“The latest vehicles are equipped with advanced safety systems but it is still critical that wear and tear items such as tyres and brakes are checked regularly and replaced.
“We urge government to scrap its plans to change a test system that has played a vital role in making the UK's roads among the safest in the world."
The most common reason for cars failing they MOT test include lights and indicator issues, tyres, brakes and suspension.
A recent investigation into car tyres in the UK found that 27.3 per cent of driver’s car tyres were below the legal tread depth of 1.6mm.