It was recently announced that compulsory MOTs for pre-1960 vehicles are to be scrapped in November due to the low road accident statistics associated with classic cars and the high level of maintenance undertaken by their owners. Owners of these vehicles will still be required to ensure that their car is in safe roadworthy condition, but removing compulsory MOTs will save them money without losing the overall safety benefits associated with car maintenance.
It is thought that classic car owners spend far more time caring for their vehicle and therefore do not benefit from regular checks by industry professionals. As Roads Minister Mike Penning said, ‘Owners of classic cars and motorbikes tend to be enthusiasts who maintain their vehicles well – they don’t need to be told to look after them, they’re out there in all weathers checking the condition of the engine, tyres and bodywork.’
Recently the ruling has been criticised by many as a public safety risk and a devaluation of the MOT. Both the Retail Motor Industry Federation and, perhaps more surprisingly, editor of Classics Monthly magazine Gary Stretton who asks, ‘The MOT test is a great leveller and I’m glad for that…Are we blind enough to grab a £45 saving on MOT tests only to be at the mercy of insurance premiums and possible legislation restricting use?’
How do you feel about the change in requirements for classic car owners? Is it a step forward in cutting unnecessary tests for vehicle owners or a risk to public safety and a potential cause for high insurance premiums? Are you a garage owner worried about the impact it may have on your business? We’d love to know your thoughts, so get in touch with us through our Facebook or Twitter pages to let us know!
by Marc Yates
