MOT Test Review – Should they be scrapped?

The MOT test is a very important test that helps to make sure that cars are safe for the passengers that are carried in them, and the other drivers on the road, at least this is what you have been told for the last 40 to 60 years or so.   Just like the American inspection and emissions testing, the MOT test is meant to reduce the number of vehicle accidents that occur due to vehicle malfunctioning, but are these types of tests needed?

Needed testing?

There is a slight argument over whether these tests are really necessary or if they are just costing drivers exorbitant amount of money every year.  Most MOT tests are passed and people walk away feeling little bit safer that their car is not malfunctioning, but some MOT tests are failed and can cost hundreds of pounds to fix.  This is because most tests are failed due to small issues that can be easily fixed, and some unscrupulous garages could take advantage of the multiple issues to charge a person whatever they want to.

Remove the testing?

It does not really matter what side of the argument you are on, however, there is an alarming amount of people that are in favor of removing the MOT testing.  The MOT test has been around since 1960 and is considered helpful in keeping down the level of accidents due to malfunctioning vehicles.  Unfortunately, it is stated in a report by the Adam Smith Institute, that the MOT test has not been evaluated in 1980, and that due to the development of technology is no longer needed.  The report also states that the MOT testing provides a false sense of safety, due to the fact that when a person has the tests done they feel like their car is absolutely safe and that nothing can go wrong.

Don’t remove the testing

Some consider the MOT useful in keeping your car in good working order so that it minimizes the risk of accidents due to malfunction.  Both sides of the argument show statistics and numbers found in studies, but there is no clear-cut argument either way.

An Alternative Proposition

As it stands, no matter what the Adam Smith Institute says, no matter what the people administering the MOT test think, and no matter if the government retains the tests, the MOT test is overall a good thing, but should it be illegal to not have one completed?  Is it really the government’s responsibility to make sure its citizens are safe from themselves?

Perhaps the MOT testing could be optional and those that have put the car through the test can qualify for a discount on their motor insurance?

It will be interesting to see how the debate unfolds in the coming months.