MOT vs Service
Many UK drivers confuse about MOT vs Service. While both are essential for keeping your vehicle safe and roadworthy, they serve very different purposes. In this post, Ghost Car MOT breaks down the key differences between an MOT and a car service, and explains why your vehicle needs both .
🔍 What is an MOT?
An MOT (Ministry of Transport Test) is a legal requirement for all vehicles over three years old in the UK. It’s an annual inspection that ensures your car meets minimum safety and environmental standards.
What’s Checked During an MOT?
- Brakes
- Lights
- Tyres
- Exhaust system
- Windscreen
- Seat belts
- Suspension
- Emissions
🔴 An MOT does not include any repairs or part replacements. It simply checks if your car is roadworthy.
🔧 What is a Car Service?
A car service is a routine maintenance check recommended at least once a year or every 12,000 miles. It ensures your vehicle is running efficiently and helps prevent future breakdowns.
What’s Included in a Service?
- Engine oil & filter change
- Air & cabin filter replacement
- Fluid top-ups (coolant, brake, screen wash)
- Battery check
- Brake and tyre inspection
- Spark plug or fuel filter replacement (major service)
✅ A service can identify issues early and save you money on repairs.
🆚 MOT vs Service – Key Differences
| Feature | MOT | Car Service |
|---|---|---|
| Legal Requirement | Yes (Annually for cars >3 years) | No (but strongly recommended) |
| Purpose | Road safety and emissions compliance | Vehicle performance and reliability |
| Includes Repairs | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (if needed) |
| Covers Emissions | ✅ Yes | ❌ Not specifically |
| Scheduled By | Government-required | Owner-recommended |
🚗 Why You Need Both
Skipping either your MOT or your service could cost you more in the long run:
- ❌ Failing an MOT means your car isn’t road legal
- ❌ Skipping services can lead to unexpected breakdowns
- ✅ A well-serviced car is more likely to pass the MOT
Want to make sure you’re covered? Book both with Ghost Car MOT for peace of mind.
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📌 Final Thoughts About MOT vs Service
An MOT checks your car’s safety – a service keeps it healthy. Both are important, and together they ensure your vehicle is safe, efficient, and road legal.
For expert MOTs and servicing in the UK, choose Ghost Car MOT.
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