The Future of MOT testing

1st July 2026/0 Comments/in mot testing, Eric Roberts' Motoring News/by Eric Roberts

The Future of MOT testing

The Future of MOT Testing – How Modern Technology Is Changing the Garage Industry

When I first entered the motor trade during the 1960s, an MOT test was a very different affair from the one we carry out today at Pellon Tyres in Halifax.

Cars were much simpler.

There were no computers, no warning lights, no electric vehicles and certainly no advanced safety systems that could steer or brake the car for you.

Most faults could be found using experience, common sense and a good set of tools.

Fast forward sixty years, and the modern motor car has become one of the most advanced machines most of us will ever own.

Technology is changing rapidly, and naturally the MOT test has to evolve with it.

Over the next few years motorists will notice more changes as electric vehicles, hybrid technology and advanced driver assistance systems become increasingly common on Britain’s roads.

The MOT Continues to Evolve: The Future of MOT testing

Many motorists believe the MOT has remained largely unchanged over the years.

In reality, it has continually evolved to reflect the changing technology fitted to modern vehicles.

Every few years new checks are introduced while older testing methods are updated.

The aim has always remained exactly the same.

To ensure vehicles meet the minimum legal standards for road safety and environmental protection.

As technology advances, MOT testers must also continue learning and adapting.

Electric Vehicles Bring New Challenges

Electric vehicles are becoming increasingly common throughout Halifax and Calderdale.

Although they require less routine servicing than many petrol or diesel cars, they introduce completely new safety considerations.

Unlike conventional vehicles, electric cars contain high-voltage battery systems capable of producing potentially dangerous voltages.

For this reason, MOT testers are now expected to carry out additional visual inspections on electric and hybrid vehicles.

These include checking:

High-voltage cables.
Battery casings.
Charging sockets.
Electrical connectors.

Fortunately, these are visual inspections only.

If any serious damage is discovered, specialist repairs should only be carried out by technicians trained to work safely on high-voltage systems.

Bigger Cars Mean Bigger Equipment: The Future of MOT testing

Another interesting change is the increasing weight of modern vehicles.

Electric cars often weigh several hundred kilograms more than equivalent petrol models because of their large battery packs.

This means garages must ensure their lifting equipment is suitable for today’s heavier vehicles.

Many workshops, including ours at Pellon Tyres, continually invest in new equipment to keep pace with changes in the motor industry.

Advanced Driver Assistance Systems

One of the biggest technological developments in recent years has been the arrival of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, usually shortened to ADAS.

These systems include features such as the following:

Lane-keeping assistance.
Automatic emergency braking.
Adaptive cruise control.
Traffic sign recognition.
Parking cameras.
Radar sensors.

Many drivers don’t even realise just how much technology is helping them every time they drive.

These systems rely upon cameras and radar sensors being positioned with incredible accuracy.

Even very small changes following accident repairs, suspension work or wheel alignment can affect how they operate.

Why Calibration Matters: The Future of MOT testing

Many people assume replacing a windscreen or carrying out suspension repairs is simply a matter of fitting new parts.

Unfortunately, modern vehicles are rarely that simple.

Once certain components have been replaced, cameras and sensors often require recalibration.

Without this process, safety systems may not perform exactly as the manufacturer intended.

As these systems become more common, specialist calibration equipment is becoming an increasingly important part of many modern workshops.

Vehicle Diagnostics Continue to Grow

When I first became a mechanic, diagnosis usually involved listening carefully to an engine, checking ignition timing or adjusting a carburettor.

Today many faults are identified using sophisticated diagnostic computers.

Modern vehicles contain dozens of electronic control units communicating with one another every second.

These computers monitor almost every aspect of vehicle operation.

Professional diagnostic equipment allows technicians to identify faults quickly while reducing unnecessary parts replacement.

Technology has certainly transformed the way garages work.

Cleaner Vehicles for the Future: The Future of MOT testing

Environmental standards continue becoming stricter.

Diesel particulate filters, catalytic converters and advanced emissions systems all help reduce pollution.

As vehicle technology develops further, emissions testing will almost certainly continue evolving alongside it.

Future testing equipment may become capable of identifying faults that would previously have gone unnoticed.

This benefits everyone by helping ensure vehicles remain cleaner and more environmentally friendly.

Training Never Stops

One thing that has remained constant throughout my career is the need to keep learning.

When I entered the tyre trade, radial tyres were still relatively new.

Since then we have seen fuel injection, ABS braking systems, airbags, hybrid vehicles and now fully electric cars.

Every stage has required garages to invest in training.

At Pellon Tyres we believe that investing in knowledge is just as important as investing in equipment.

The motor industry never stands still.

Neither do we.

Honest Advice for Our Customers: The Future of MOT testing

Sometimes customers ask whether all this new technology makes motoring more complicated.

The honest answer is yes.

Modern vehicles are far more sophisticated than ever before.

However, they are also safer, cleaner, more economical and generally more reliable.

As independent garage owners, our responsibility is to keep up with these developments while continuing to offer straightforward advice in plain English.

Most motorists simply want to know their vehicle is safe and roadworthy.

That’s exactly what we aim to provide.

Looking Ahead

The next few years are likely to bring even more changes to MOT testing.

Electric vehicles will continue growing in popularity.

Advanced safety systems will become even more sophisticated.

Diagnostic equipment will become more powerful.

Yet despite all these advances, one thing will never change.

Good workmanship, honest advice and attention to detail remain the foundations of every professional garage.

Here at Pellon Tyres in Halifax, we have watched the motor industry change dramatically over the past six decades.

From simple family saloons to today’s highly connected electric vehicles, it has been an incredible journey.

Whatever technology arrives next, our commitment remains exactly the same.

To provide friendly, professional service and keep motorists across Halifax and Calderdale safely on the road for many years to come.

MOT Mileage Records Be Used for Future Road Tax?

1st July 2026/0 Comments/in All MOT Matters, Eric Roberts' Motoring News/by Eric Roberts

MOT Mileage Records Be Used for Future Road Tax?

Could MOT Mileage Records Be Used for Future Road Tax? What It Could Mean for Motorists

For many years, one of the simplest parts of carrying out an MOT test has been recording the vehicle’s mileage.

Most motorists hardly give it a second thought.

The tester notes the mileage displayed on the dashboard, enters it into the DVSA computer system and carries on with the inspection.

However, recent Government proposals suggest that this small part of the MOT test could become much more important in the future.

Plans are currently being discussed that could see MOT mileage records playing a much bigger role in how Vehicle Excise Duty, more commonly known as road tax, is administered in years to come.

Although nothing has been finalised, the proposals have certainly created plenty of discussion throughout the motor trade.

Why Is Mileage Important? MOT Mileage Records Be Used for Future Road Tax?

Mileage has always been useful for several reasons.

It helps create a service history.

It allows buyers to judge how much a vehicle has been used.

Most importantly, it helps identify vehicles where the odometer may have been tampered with.

For many years, MOT mileage records have provided an excellent way of building a trustworthy history for every vehicle.

If the mileage suddenly drops between MOT tests, it immediately raises questions.

Fortunately, cases of odometer fraud are much less common than they once were, largely because mileage is now recorded electronically every year.

Could Mileage Affect Road Tax?

The latest Government proposals suggest that mileage information could eventually be used to support a future electronic vehicle excise duty system.

The idea is still under consultation, so no final decisions have been made.

However, one thing seems increasingly clear.

The existing MOT system already provides an accurate annual mileage record for millions of vehicles.

Rather than creating an entirely new inspection system, it would make sense for the Government to make use of information that is already being collected.

What About Newer Cars? MOT Mileage Records Be Used for Future Road Tax?

One interesting part of the discussion concerns vehicles that are less than three years old.

At present these vehicles do not require an MOT.

Because no official mileage is recorded during those early years, proposals have suggested introducing simple mileage checks before the first MOT becomes due.

Exactly how this might work remains unclear.

Whether garages like ours would eventually carry out these inspections is still unknown.

As with many Government consultations, there are still plenty of questions to answer before any changes become law.

What It Means for Garages

From our point of view at Pellon Tyres in Halifax, recording the correct mileage has always been important.

Every MOT tester understands the responsibility of entering accurate information.

That responsibility could become even more significant if mileage records eventually form part of future taxation systems.

Fortunately, professional MOT testers already work to strict DVSA procedures.

Recording mileage accurately is simply another part of carrying out the job properly.

Keeping Accurate Records: MOT Mileage Records Be Used for Future Road Tax?

One thing I have always believed throughout my years in the motor trade is that good record keeping benefits everyone.

Customers appreciate accurate paperwork.

Garages have clear evidence of work completed.

Vehicle histories become easier to follow.

If future Government systems make greater use of MOT mileage records, it simply reinforces the importance of doing the job carefully every single time.

Fortunately, this is something reputable garages have always taken seriously.

What About Company Vehicles?

Some discussion has also focused on businesses operating large vehicle fleets.

Companies with dozens or even hundreds of vehicles understandably want any new system to be simple and straightforward.

The government has indicated that it is considering ways of reducing unnecessary administration for fleet operators.

Exactly what that system might look like remains to be seen.

Why Consultations Matter: MOT Mileage Records Be Used for Future Road Tax?

One important point worth remembering is that these proposals are exactly that—proposals.

Before introducing significant changes, the government normally asks for views from the motor industry, fleet operators, garages and members of the public.

Those responses often influence the final legislation.

It is therefore far too early to assume exactly what any future system will look like.

Will It Change the MOT Test?

This is probably the question many motorists are asking.

The simple answer is probably not.

The MOT will continue to be a road safety inspection.

Its primary purpose remains ensuring that vehicles meet the minimum legal standards required to drive safely on Britain’s roads.

Recording mileage has always been part of the process.

Future changes would simply place greater importance on information that is already collected during the inspection.

Looking Ahead: MOT Mileage Records Be Used for Future Road Tax?

The motor industry has changed enormously during my lifetime.

When I first entered the trade, most paperwork was completed by hand.

There were no computers.

No online vehicle records.

No electronic databases.

Today, MOT information is stored electronically and can be accessed almost instantly.

Technology continues to change the way garages operate.

If mileage records eventually become part of a future taxation system, it will simply be another example of how modern technology is shaping the motor industry.

Honest Advice at Pellon Tyres

At Pellon Tyres in Halifax we always try to keep our customers informed about important developments affecting motorists.

Although these proposals remain under discussion, they highlight just how valuable accurate MOT records have become.

Our experienced MOT testers continue to follow the latest DVSA procedures carefully and professionally.

Whether government policy changes or not, one thing remains certain.

Accurate inspections, honest advice and professional workmanship will always remain at the heart of everything we do.

As always, if you have any questions about your MOT, servicing or vehicle maintenance, our friendly team will be happy to help.

The rules surrounding motoring continue to evolve, but providing straightforward advice and looking after our customers never goes out of fashion.

Engine Fails During an MOT Test

1st July 2026/0 Comments/in All MOT Matters, Eric Roberts' Motoring News/by Eric Roberts

Engine Fails During an MOT Test

When an Engine Fails During an MOT Test – Who Is Responsible?

One of the questions we occasionally hear from customers at Pellon Tyres in Halifax is whether an MOT can actually damage a vehicle.

It’s an understandable concern.

After all, when you hand over the keys to your car, you naturally expect to get it back in the same condition, hopefully with a fresh MOT certificate as well.

Thankfully, incidents involving damage during an MOT test are extremely rare, but every so often a hidden mechanical fault decides to make itself known while the vehicle is being tested.

A recent court case in Scotland has highlighted exactly this situation and has provided useful clarification for both motorists and MOT testing stations.

What Does an MOT Actually Test? Engine Fails During an MOT Test

One of the biggest misunderstandings surrounding the MOT test is what it is actually designed to do.

Many motorists believe that an MOT is a complete health check on the entire vehicle.

In reality, it isn’t.

The MOT is a safety and environmental inspection carried out according to strict procedures laid down by the DVSA.

The tester follows a detailed inspection manual covering items such as:

Brakes
Steering
Suspension
Tyres
Lights
Seat belts
Exhaust emissions
Vehicle structure

It is designed to ensure that the vehicle meets the minimum legal standards for road safety and environmental performance.

It is not a mechanical guarantee.

Hidden Faults Can Exist

Modern cars contain thousands of moving parts.

Many of these are completely hidden from view.

Components such as timing belts, timing chains, water pumps and internal engine bearings simply cannot be inspected during an MOT.

In fact, MOT testers are not allowed to dismantle engines to investigate hidden components.

Doing so would completely change the nature of the MOT test.

Instead, the tester must carry out the inspection exactly as laid down by the DVSA.

Why the Emissions Test Matters: Engine Fails During an MOT Test

One part of the MOT that sometimes surprises customers is the emissions test.

To carry out this test correctly, the engine must be accelerated to specific engine speeds.

This isn’t the tester revving the engine for fun.

It is simply part of the official testing procedure.

The equipment measures the exhaust gases while the engine is operating under prescribed conditions.

Millions of vehicles undergo this process every year without any problems whatsoever.

Occasionally, however, a hidden weakness inside an engine may reveal itself during the test.

Timing Belts Have a Limited Life

One of the most important maintenance items on many vehicles is the timing belt.

The timing belt keeps the crankshaft and camshaft perfectly synchronised.

If it breaks while the engine is running, serious damage can occur almost instantly.

Valves may strike pistons, resulting in costly repairs.

The important point is that a timing belt can often appear perfectly normal from the outside.

Unless the manufacturer specifies removal for inspection during routine servicing, there is usually no practical way of assessing its internal condition.

That is why manufacturers specify replacement intervals based upon mileage or age.

Ignoring those recommendations can become an expensive mistake.

Why Garages Cannot Predict Every Failure: Engine Fails During an MOT Test

At Pellon Tyres we often explain that an MOT is not the same as a vehicle service.

A service may identify worn components before they fail.

An MOT is different.

Our testers must follow the official inspection procedures.

We cannot remove engine covers looking for hidden faults that fall outside the scope of the test.

Nor would customers expect the additional cost that such dismantling would involve.

The MOT remains a legal inspection rather than a full mechanical examination.

Experience Counts

Having spent almost sixty years in the motor trade, I have seen just about every type of mechanical failure imaginable.

Engines have failed.

Gearboxes have broken.

Alternators have stopped charging.

Batteries have failed without warning.

Unfortunately, mechanical parts sometimes reach the end of their working life with very little notice.

That doesn’t necessarily mean anyone has done anything wrong.

Sometimes components simply fail.

Why Record Keeping Is So Important: Engine Fails During an MOT Test

One thing every professional garage should do is keep accurate records.

At Pellon Tyres we believe good paperwork protects both the customer and ourselves.

If anything unusual occurs during an MOT, it is always recorded carefully.

Clear communication is equally important.

Most customers appreciate an honest explanation far more than technical jargon.

Fortunately, situations involving major engine failure during an MOT are extremely uncommon.

Servicing Helps Reduce Risk

The best way to avoid expensive surprises is to keep your vehicle properly maintained.

Replacing timing belts at the manufacturer’s recommended intervals is one of the most important maintenance jobs on many vehicles.

Although it may seem expensive at the time, it is usually far cheaper than replacing an entire engine.

Regular servicing also allows technicians to identify many other worn components before they become major problems.

Looking After Halifax Motorists

Here at Pellon Tyres in Halifax we carry out MOT tests every day for customers from across Calderdale and the surrounding areas.

Our testers always follow the latest DVSA inspection procedures.

We treat every customer’s vehicle with the same care and respect we would expect for our own.

Most MOT tests are completed without any issues whatsoever.

Occasionally we discover worn tyres, brakes or suspension components that need attention before the vehicle can pass.

That is exactly what the MOT is designed to achieve—keeping Britain’s roads safer for everyone.

The Bottom Line: Engine Fails During an MOT Test

Mechanical failures are an unfortunate fact of motoring.

Even well-maintained vehicles can occasionally suffer unexpected component failures.

However, an MOT tester’s responsibility is to carry out the inspection correctly and professionally using the procedures laid down by the DVSA.

An MOT should never be viewed as a guarantee that every hidden component inside an engine is in perfect condition.

Instead, it is a legal safety inspection carried out to ensure your vehicle meets the required standards on the day it is tested.

At Pellon Tyres we are proud to carry out MOT testing honestly, professionally and in accordance with the latest DVSA guidance.

Our aim has always been simple—to keep motorists across Halifax and Calderdale safe while providing the friendly, straightforward service that has been at the heart of our business for more than three decades.

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