The importance of MOTs & servicing


The annual MOT and car service are two essential ways to keep your car safe and running smoothly.

If your car is over three years old, you'll need to get an MOT every year. Together, your annual car service and MOT test provide peace of mind that your car is safe to drive. Here's a guide on the importance of MOTs and servicing and why it pays to combine the two.

During an MOT, your vehicle will be inspected to ensure it meets the minimum road safety standards set out by the DVSA. A trained technician will check that your car's essentials are working. From the brakes, bulbs, seatbelts, and spare wheel, it's an in-depth vehicle check.

Every car over the age of three requires an annual MOT test. Driving without a valid MOT can land you with a fine of up to £1,000.

During the MOT test, your technician won't check the condition of your car's engine, fluid levels or anything else. They’re just checking it structurally safe and sound.

You can find a full breakdown of what happens during an MOT test here.

With over 350 Autocentres nationwide, booking an MOT with Halfords is easy, and you can find your nearest Autocentre with our handy store locator tool.

A car service is crucial to keeping your car healthy and running perfectly. All manufacturers recommend your vehicle be serviced at least once a year (in some cases, sooner if you're driving lots of miles).

During a service, a technician will check over your car and ensure the essentials are working well.

An oil and filter change will keep your engine running smoothly. New air and pollen filters will help you breathe easily, and brake fluid replacement will help you stop when you need to.

Here at Halfords, we offer three different service packages to choose from:

  • Interim Service - our Interim Service is suitable for high-mileage car users that may need more than one service a year. For example, if you are driving 2,000 or more miles a month you should get an interim service every 6 months.
  • Full Service - the Full Service is among the best annual services available, comprising 75 individual maintenance checks. It exceeds the recommendations made by most manufacturers for yearly inspections, refills, and replacements. It's designed to provide a year of trouble-free motoring.
  • Major Service - the Major Service is our most comprehensive car service, including everything needed in an annual service as well as changing parts recommended for replacement every two years, including brake fluid (worth £37) and the cabin filter (worth a minimum of £30).

In addition to these service packages, we can also offer any additional manufacturer-specified work, such as replacing the cambelt (also known as the timing belt).

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