It is important to understand that the MOT is a legally required roadworthiness test for your vehicle, while a service is designed to keep your car in optimal condition.
The annual MOT test and service can be carried out by an approved garage, but if you lead a busy lifestyle, you can also call a mobile mechanic and arrange for them to carry out the service at a time and place of your choosing.
Find out when your MOT is due with our free MOT checker. Simply enter your vehicle's registration to check its MOT expiry date and view its test history.
What is the difference between an MOT and service?
An MOT is a legal requirement to confirm your car’s roadworthy. While a service, though not mandatory, is advised to maintain your vehicle's peak condition, following manufacturer guidelines.
For most drivers in the UK, the MOT is a legal requirement. Driving without an MOT could land you with penalty points on your driving licence and a large fine.
| MOT | Service |
|---|---|
| Required by law | Highly recommended but not a legal requirement |
| Ensures your vehicle is road legal | Thorough checks to your vehicle and changes to improve safety, comfort and reliability |
| Check to see if the vehicle meets DVLA standards | Inspection and work can vary on type and where the work is carried out |
What is an MOT
The annual MOT (Ministry of Transport) test is a legally mandated inspection carried out by a certified MOT tester to ensure your car meets the necessary safety and environmental standards.
If you own a new car, it will not need an MOT until the third anniversary of the vehicle's registration (four years in Northern Ireland). After that, it will need to be an annual test. Avoiding your MOT, may lead to hefty fines and legal action.
What is a car service
A car service involves routine maintenance and checks performed on a vehicle by a qualified mechanic. It should be carried out every six or 12 months – depending on the type of car service.
Servicing leads to a vehicle being safer and more economical. It also helps avoid costly reliability issues and problems that result in an MOT failure.
You can have your car serviced at an approved garage or arrange for a mobile mechanic to do this at your home or place of work.
What's included in an MOT?
During the test, the MOT tester will carry out checks on all the major components as well as other parts of the vehicle to ensure it is safe and road worthy.
Below are some of the common checks that are conducted:
Internal
- Fuel system
- Seatbelts
- SRS
- Steering
- Suspension
- Electrical system
- Electrical wiring
- Battery
- Boot, bonnet, tailgate, or tow bar
- Tyres
- Wheels
- TPMS
- Horn
- Exhaust system (and levels of emissions)
- Seats
- Brakes (and linked systems)
- Clutch
- Gearbox
External
- Windscreen wipers
- Windscreen and other windows
- Lights and signals (internal and external)
- Registration plates
- Mirrors
- Doors
- Body structure
- VIN number displayed and correct
If the car is too dirty and filled with clutter, then it could result in the MOT tester refusing to conduct the test. Make sure to clean your vehicle and top up fluids before dropping it off.
What's included in a car service?
What's included in a car service will depend on the type you choose. All services should include a safety check for the brakes, steering, suspension, wheels and tyres.
The engine oil should also be changed, along with a thorough inspection for the battery and cooling system.
The mechanic should also test drive the car - before and after the service - to ensure the vehicle feels and sounds healthy.
Full service: what’s included
The RAC offers a 77-point inspection with each full service, which should be carried out every 12 months or 12,000 miles – whichever comes first.
A full RAC service includes:
- Road test
- Engine oil and filter change
- Battery and charging system check
- Cooling system check
- Fuel filter check
- Air filter replacement
- Power steering fluid top-up
- Safety inspection
- Steering and suspension
- Wheels and tyres
- Seat belts
- Horn
- Brakes
- Front and rear lights
- Exhaust
- Mechanical parts
- Wipers
- Wiper fluid top up
A full RAC inspection also includes a full diagnostics check, which will look for any electrical faults within the engine, power steering, transmission, sensors and more.
Interim service: what’s included
When it comes to an interim service, this includes a 50-point inspection – and should be carried out every six months or 6,000 miles (whichever comes first).
The RAC interim service includes:
- Road test
- Engine oil and filter change
- Battery check
- Cooling system check
- Safety inspection
- Steering and suspension
- Wheels and tyres
- Seat belts
- Horn
- Brakes
- Front and rear lights
- Exhaust
- Mechanical parts
- Wipers
- Wiper fluid top up
Find out more about RAC car service.
How much is an MOT and service?
When it comes to a service and MOT, there are certain price points that drivers need to be aware of.
According to the Government, the maximum fee for an MOT for a car is £54.85.
Of course, if it does fail, then whatever the issue is, then it needs to be fixed.
This could be a minor issue, or a major failure where extensive – and often expensive – works needs to be conducted.
In regards to a car service, an interim with the RAC starts at just £191, and a full service from £205.
This price can vary depending on the make, model, and size of the vehicle – as well as the location you are having the service.
If you have any questions about MOTs or services, then please leave them in the comments below.
Get a service or repair at home
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Difference between an MOT and Service - FAQs
- Is an MOT and Service the same thing?
No, an MOT and Service are not the same thing. One is a legal requirement that is carried out every year to ensure a vehicle is road legal and the other is a ‘health check’ for your vehicle.
- Should I get a service and an MOT at the same time?
Although a service is not a legal requirement, getting it at the same time as an MOT is advisable as it will save time and cost in the long run.
- Should I get an MOT or service first?
Drivers should focus on booking their MOT as a priority, and getting a service if they can to improve the lifespan of their vehicle.
- What is the difference between service history and MOT?
A service history displays the work carried out on a vehicle, along with the date, whereas an MOT is an annual legal requirement to ensure that your vehicle is road legal.
- Does a full service include an MOT?
No, a full service will need to be booked separately to the annual MOT. They do not need to be carried out at the same time.
- Will my car fail its MOT if it needs a service?
Not necessarily - although there is some crossover, the MOT and service look at slightly different issues. However, if you do fail an MOT, a service is advisable as it can get rid of any other problems with the vehicle.
