Drivers told to book car MOT urgently if it’s due in coming months as Covid sparks mega delays – or face fines

DRIVERS have been warned to book their car’s MOT urgently if it’s due in either September or October – after Covid sparked lengthy delays.

Almost 1.3million additional tests are due in the autumn when compared with the same time last year.

And the Motor Ombudsman has warned demand on garages is set to soar after a spike in the number of people using its online Garage Finder tool.

The whopping surge in bookings comes after a six-month MOT extension was put in place at the beginning of the pandemic.

It meant around 5.5million motorists were able to delay the important test when garages were shut at the end of March 2020.

Bill Fennell, managing director of the Motor Ombudsman, warned Brits to brace for delays.

“After a small uptick in the number of MOTs forecast to expire during August, there is a notable acceleration in the volume of MOT certificates due to come to an end in September and October,” he said.

“This means that it’s going to be an extremely busy period for MOT stations up and down the country during the next few weeks.”

The AA has already warned next month will be “super September” as millions of people flock to MOT centres.

Those who don’t get it done in time could face a £1,000 fine.

Jack Cousens, head of  policy for the AA, said: “MOT centres are already feeling the strain and with ‘Super September’ looming, savvy drivers can get ahead of the game.

“Don’t delay, book today.

“With bookings up to 90 days in advance, all drivers can use AA Smart Care to find trusted local garages to keep their vehicle on the road.

“Usually people leave booking their MOT to the last possible moment.

“Drivers won’t have that luxury this time.”

If you don’t know the status of your MOT, you can  to order to avoid a £1,000 fine.

If you are caught driving an unsafe vehicle, even if your MOT is still valid, you can be fined up to £2,500.

If you can’t take your vehicle for its MOT and your vehicle tax is due to run out, you can register it as off the road (SORN) on the .

The test costs a maximum of £54.85 for an average car.

Vehicles must have an MOT on the third anniversary of their registration, and then every 12 months.

During the MOT, a mechanic will check lights, seatbelts, tyres, brakes and other parts of the car to make sure they meet legal standards.