MOT Review

5 August 2011

Fleets will have the chance to comment on any changes to the MOT test once the Government launches its official review.

The Department for Transport (DfT) told Fleet News that it has yet to launch its formal review or its subsequent timescale.

However, it is expected to reveal its proposals in the coming weeks after changes to the MOT test were first mooted last year.

“The MOT test plays an important role in making sure vehicles are roadworthy and should strike the right balance between vehicle safety and the burden imposed on motorists,” said road safety minister Mike Penning. “We intend to undertake a review of the MOT testing regime, but have made no decisions about any changes to the system.”
 
Fleet News expresses a view that the change would have a greater impact on fleets running vans, rather than just cars, as the operating cycle for light commercial vehicles (LCVs) usually goes beyond the typical three-years/60,000 miles for cars. Nevertheless any well managed fleet would already be operating its safety checks at a higher standard than that required by the MOT, foe example many fleets change tyres when the tread depth reaches 3mm, some even at 5mm - well above the legal minimum.

RoadSafe's understanding is that the review is not simply about the frequency of testing, but  a wider review of technical safety management as a whole. We will be working with Driving for Better Business Champions to profile best practice in this area.