Drivers urged to spend £55 even if it seems 'pointless' because it'll save £2,500 fine

Drivers have been urged to spend £55 even if it seems "pointless" - because it could save them a £2,500 fine further down the line. Craig Cox is a mechanic who works at Walsall Wood Tyre & Service in the Black Country responded to a viewer who claimed that the £55 MOT is pointless.

He said: "So Mike's put that the MOT is only valid on the day of test. Well, the MOT is actually valid for 12 months, 13 if you have anything left on your old MOT when it is presented. Now, it is true what they say: the MOT is only as good as the vehicle on the day it is presented. Afterwards, defects can appear down the line, such as naughty people ripping out catalysts and things like that.

"Rest assured, the system is there in place so that, if we don't catch it this year, we'll definitely catch you next year if you leave it [problems] on there." He continued: "It is what it is. These rules and regulations are there not just to keep us safer on the roads but to make the environment that little bit safer for pedestrians walking around these busy roads and all these clean air zones to help stop children breathing in all the nasty pollution coming from these cars.

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"It's there for a reason, so trust it and follow the system, because the system works." An MOT test will check that your vehicle meets all road safety and environmental standards. It proves that your car is roadworthy and safe to drive. Every car over three years old must get an MOT each year to comply with UK law.

An annual service involves a comprehensive check of your vehicle's condition, and a refresh of essentials such as engine oil, fluid and coolants, and replacement filters, if required. You should get a service at least once a year, but if you cover lots of miles your car might need to be serviced more regularly. Servicing should be completed according to your vehicle manufacturer’s schedule.

Booking a car service at the same time as your MOT provides total peace of mind and confidence that you’re ready for the journey ahead.