How long does an MOT take?

Thursday 20th December 2018

An MOT test consists of various checks to ensure the car is safe to drive on the road. In the UK, every vehicle is required by law to undertake an MOT test when the vehicle is 3 years old and once a year after. But how long does it take to do an MOT?

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How long does an MOT test take?

It’s likely that an MOT test will take between 45 minutes to 1 hour. Our MOT appointments come in 1-hour slots and you can book up to 6 months in advance, allowing you the freedom to book the appointment around your schedule.

Customers are welcome to watch their vehicle undertake the test from our dedicated MOT test viewing area, or wait in our waiting areas which have seating, Wi-Fi, TV and tea and coffee. Alternatively, you're also welcome to leave the car with us, allowing you to get on with your day and pick the car up later when the MOT test has been completed.

What happens if my car fails its MOT?

Should your car fail the MOT test, technicians will need more time to complete additional work. You will be advised on details of this or if a retest is required. The MOT duration time will then need to be extended to allow for this work to be completed.

So, how long does an MOT and service take?

While an MOT typically lasts between 45 minutes to 1 hour, a full service will usually take no longer than 3 hours to complete. This would then be an estimation of around 4 hours for the amount of time an MOT and service takes. However, an interim service will usually take less time – whereas a major service will likely take more time to be completed.  

However, it’s important to note that the length of a service can depend on many factors – such as the age of the car, the mileage, the type of service and if any problems are identified within the service.

Here at Formula One Autocentres, we have over 100 MOT testing stations throughout the UK and carry out over 100,000 MOT's each year. To book an MOT with us, you can book online or find your nearest Formula One Autocentre and give us a call.

Now you know how long an MOT takes, keep track of when your MOT is due by signing up to our free MOT reminder service. By signing up, you'll receive an email or SMS when your next MOT is due.

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