IGA Meets Government Over Frozen MOT Fee Cap
The Independent Garage Association (IGA) has met with officials from the Department for Transport (DfT) and the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) to press the case for an increase in the MOT fee cap, which has remained unchanged since 2010 despite significant rises in operating costs faced by independent garages.
The meeting provided an opportunity for the IGA to present the growing concerns of the sector directly to Government and highlight the urgent need for reform to ensure the long-term sustainability of MOT testing.
The IGA warned that continued inaction risks making MOT testing increasingly unviable for many garages. With businesses already facing substantial increases in wages, energy costs, equipment investment and compliance requirements, the current MOT fee no longer reflects the true cost of delivering the service.
According to the IGA, the issue is already having a significant impact on the sector, with many garages questioning how long they can continue to offer MOT appointments at current rates. The IGA also highlighted that, based on the Government’s own inflation projections, the equivalent MOT fee would rise to £120.64 by 2029.
Stuart James, Chief Executive of the Independent Garage Association, said:
“The response we have received from both members and non-members has been overwhelming and demonstrates just how strongly the sector feels about this issue.
We are extremely grateful to everyone who has shared information and evidence of the challenges they face. Their experiences have helped us present a clear and compelling case to Government.
The reality is that this issue can no longer be kicked down the road. Garages cannot continue absorbing rising costs indefinitely while the MOT fee remains frozen. We made that point very clearly during our discussions and will continue to press for action.
The IGA is unrelenting in its pursuit of a fair and sustainable increase to the MOT fee, and we will not stop until meaningful progress is made.”
The IGA also warned that, without a significant increase in the MOT fee, garages may have little choice but to prioritise more profitable repair and servicing work in order to cover rising overheads. Should that happen, the availability of MOT appointments could reduce, making it increasingly difficult for motorists to secure a test when they need one.
The IGA believes a sustainable MOT fee is essential to maintaining a testing network capable of supporting motorists as vehicle technology continues to evolve. Without appropriate investment and a fee structure that reflects the cost of delivery, the future resilience of the MOT scheme could be placed at risk.
The IGA also emphasised the vital role MOT testing plays in protecting road users. Last year alone, 2.55 million MOT tests identified at least one dangerous defect, underlining the importance of ensuring garages can continue to deliver the service effectively and sustainably.
The IGA is now seeking a meeting with the Transport Minister responsible for the MOT regime to discuss potential solutions and bring about a long-overdue resolution to the issue.
