Having a car is an expensive business especially when it comes to getting it serviced and having its MOT to see if it’s road worthy.  But of course, we like to save you money so in today’s blog we’re going to give you some servicing and MOT hacks to bring down your car bills.

A recent survey suggested that more than a 1/3 of car owners were not happy after they’d left a garage. Not many have a clue about what should or shouldn’t be going on under their bonnet and it’s not uncommon for garages to take advantage of this!

Car Servicing & MOT hacks

Servicing Hacks

1. Your car should have a manual with it, leave it in the window of your car when you go to the garage and this will give some indication to the garage that you know something about cars even if you don’t!  If you can, have the vehicle’s model, engine size, fuel type and registration (all of the basics to hand.)
2. Always ask for estimation costs and check whether they include extra costs such as VAT. A good garage won’t give you the ‘we won’t know until its done mate’ spiel.
3. Go for industry recognised garages because they will work to an industry code of conduct and a high standard level of work is required. You’re more likely to be in the hand of a professional with an industry recognised garage because they’ve a title to keep.

According to statistics, more than 40% of car owners fail their MOT’s due to reason within their control!

Mot Hacks

1.  Clear the clutter out.  They will fail you for a messy car if they can’t get to the parts they need to inspect – from the boot to the dash board get your rubber gloves out.
2. Top up your screen wash and yes they will fail you if it’s low!
3. Replace bulbs if broken in the headlights, indicators, and hazard lights – remember to wear gloves!
4. Tyres should have minimum of 1.6mm and can be checked with a 20p coin. Here’s a video to help you: http://firsttimedriver.info/first-car/quentin-wilson-20p-test/
5. Make sure you have a full tank of engine oil because if there’s not enough for them to test your emission levels then you’ll be failed.
6. Honk your horn and ensure it is loud and working and if not, get it repaired.
7. Check there are no damages to your seat belt and they fasten correctly. Give them a sharp tug to ensure they’re doing their job properly.

Conclusion

We hope you’ve found these Car service & MOT hacks useful?

Which one will you be trying we would love to hear from you in the comments below.