MOT and car service types
An MOT is the yearly legal roadworthiness test; a service is maintenance to keep the car running well. Garages sell three levels of service - interim, full and major - and the difference is how much gets checked and replaced.
| Size | How often | Covers | Maximum fee | First needed | Time taken |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MOT test | Every year | Fuel system, seatbelts, steering, suspension, electrical systems, battery, tyres, wheels, horn, exhaust, brakes, clutch, gearbox | GBP 54.85 | 3 years | - |
| Interim service | Every 6 months or 6,000 miles | Oil and filter change, fluid top-ups, brake inspection, tyre pressure and tread, battery test, lights and horn, steering and suspension check, windscreen and wipers, exhaust inspection | - | - | Around 1 hour |
| Full service | Every 12 months or 12,000 miles | Oil and filter change, air filter replacement, cabin filter check, coolant system inspection, brake assessment, suspension and shock absorber evaluation, fluid checks, tyre checks, battery test, lights, steering, suspension, windscreen, wipers, exhaust | - | - | 1 - 1.5 hours |
| Major service | Every 24 months or 24,000 miles | Spark plug replacement, fuel filter change, brake fluid replacement, gearbox and clutch inspection, drive belt check, power steering fluid review, radiator and hose inspection, suspension springs and wheel bearing checks, electronic diagnostic scan | - | - | 2 - 3 hours |
Sources: GOV.UK, Point-S. Operators build to slightly different sizes, so check with the company before you book.