You’re gliding along, feeling smug about adulting, when two familiar terms pop up on your dashboard of responsibility: MOT and service. They sound similar, but they’re not the same—and yes, you really do need both. Here’s the simple breakdown.
MOT: Your legal roadworthiness check
Think of the MOT (Ministry of Transport test) as your car’s annual compliance exam. It’s a legal requirement that checks whether your vehicle meets safety and emissions standards set by the government.
- When it’s due: New cars don’t need an MOT for the first 3 years (it’s 4 years in Northern Ireland). After that, it’s every 12 months.
- Why it matters: Driving without a valid MOT can mean fines, points, and insurance issues.
- What it is (and isn’t): An MOT assesses safety and environmental basics, but it doesn’t include routine maintenance or replace worn parts unless you request repairs.
What gets checked in an MOT
A qualified tester inspects key systems, including:
- Fuel system
- Seatbelts
- Steering & suspension
- Lights & indicators
- Tyres & wheels
- Brakes
- Exhaust & emissions
- Body structure and general condition
Tip: Clear out the clutter and top up fluids—presenting a tidy, well-maintained car helps the process go smoothly.
Servicing: Preventive care that keeps your car sweet
A service isn’t a legal must-do, but it’s essential if you want your car to run well, last longer, and avoid nasty surprises. This is the proactive maintenance that keeps components healthy.
Interim Service
A quick refresh for higher-mileage drivers or those covering lots of short trips.
Every 6 months or 6,000 miles (whichever comes first).
Typically includes:
- Engine oil change
- Oil filter replacement
- Basic safety checks and top-ups
Great for keeping the engine clean and reducing wear between full services.
Full Service
The full works, your car’s annual spa day.
Every 12 months or 12,000 miles (whichever comes first).
Includes everything in an interim service plus:
- Air filter replacement
- More comprehensive checks across brakes, suspension, cooling, and more
A full service helps maintain efficiency and can support resale value and warranty requirements.
MOT vs Service: Quick comparison
- Purpose: MOT = legal safety & emissions check. Service = preventative maintenance.
- Frequency: MOT = yearly (after the initial exemption). Service = per manufacturer schedule (often 6/12 months).
- Scope: MOT finds faults; a service prevents them and keeps everything running properly.
- Outcome: MOT gives you a pass/fail. A service gives you fresh fluids/filters, adjustments, and a stamped history.
Why do you need both
Relying on an MOT alone is like getting a yearly health check with no exercise in between. The MOT keeps you legal; servicing keeps you reliable. Do both and you’ll drive safer, spend less on major repairs over time, and keep performance (and fuel economy) on point.
Need a hand?
Get in touch with Segensworth Automobiles, specialists in MOT, servicing and tyres. We’ll keep your vehicle safe, smooth, and roadworthy.
Call 01489 662 000 or email sales@segensworth-automobiles.co.uk to book your appointment.