What to Do If Your Car Fails Its MOT in Maidstone

If your car fails its MOT test, don’t worry—it happens more often than you think. Many cars fail because of small problems like worn tyres, faulty lights, or poor brakes. The important thing is knowing what to do next so you can get back on the road safely and legally.

At Malling Repair Service, we help Maidstone drivers handle MOT failures quickly and stress-free. Here’s what to expect if your car doesn’t pass the test.

1. You’ll Get a ‘Refusal of MOT’ Certificate

If your car fails, you’ll receive a document called a VT30 certificate. This tells you why the vehicle didn’t pass and what needs fixing. Keep this paper—it’s important if you plan to get repairs done and a retest.

The test result is also uploaded to the official DVSA database. So, even if you don’t have the paper, the result is recorded online.

2. Know If You Can Still Drive

If your MOT has already expired and your car fails, you can’t drive it—unless you’re taking it to a garage for repairs or a pre-booked MOT retest. If your old MOT is still valid, you can legally drive, but only until it runs out.

Still, we always recommend fixing any issues right away for your safety and others on the road.

3. Ask the MOT Garage for Help

When your car fails, ask your local garage what to do next. At Malling Repair Service, our technicians will explain every problem clearly and tell you which repairs are urgent.

Many times, we can offer same-day repairs so you don’t have to wait long. Once your car is fixed, we’ll retest it to help you pass.

4. Get Repairs Done at the Same MOT Garage

You don’t have to take your car elsewhere. If you get the repairs done at the same garage where your MOT was tested, you usually get a free retest within 10 working days.

That’s why it’s smart to choose a full-service MOT test centre like Malling Repair Service—we can inspect, repair, and retest your car all in one place.

📍 Malling Repair Service 34 – 38 Foster St, Maidstone ME15 6NH, UK

We’re your trusted local MOT garage in Maidstone, helping you with testing, servicing, and repairs, all under one roof.

5. Understand the Repair Categories

MOT faults are usually split into three types:

• Dangerous: These make your car unsafe to drive. You must fix them before driving again.
• Major: These also cause a test fail but may not be immediately dangerous.
• Minor: These don’t cause a fail but should be fixed soon.

We’ll walk you through each fault and give honest advice on what must be done now and what can wait.

6. Avoid the Same Failures Next Year

Once your car passes the MOT after repairs, think about what went wrong. Could the failure have been avoided? Regular checks and maintenance help reduce the risk next time.

Book services like brake checks, oil changes, or even a major car service every year to keep your vehicle running smoothly. That way, you won’t get caught off guard at your next MOT.

FAQs

Q: Can I appeal a failed MOT result? 

Yes, but you can’t make any changes or repairs if you want a recheck from DVSA. It’s usually better to get the needed repairs done and take a free retest.

Q: How much does a retest cost? 

If the repairs are done at the same garage within 10 working days, the retest is usually free.

Q: How can I avoid MOT failure in the future? 

Regular car servicing, checking lights, tyres, wipers, and brakes, and booking a pre-MOT check help catch issues early.

Final Thoughts

Failing an MOT test isn’t the end of the road—it’s just a sign your car needs some attention. At Malling Repair Service, we’re here to help you every step of the way.

From fixing faults to offering a smooth retest, we make sure you’re safe, legal, and back on the road fast. Need help after a failed MOT in Maidstone? Visit us today at 34 – 38 Foster St, Maidstone ME15 6NH, UK. We’re always happy to help.