What to Do If You Fail the MOT Retest? Clear Rules & Next Steps

An MOT retest checks that the faults found in your first MOT have been fixed. If the vehicle still has issues, the tester records them again and the pass certificate isn’t issued.

Many drivers aren’t sure what happens at this point — especially when it comes to fees, driving rules and what steps to take next. This guide explains the process in simple terms so you know exactly what to expect.

MOT Retest Rules at a Glance

Here is the summary of MOT Retest Rules at a Glance:

Reasons a Vehicle Fails the Retest

• The original faults were not fixed correctly.
• Parts fitted during repair do not meet MOT standards.
• New safety or mechanical issues are spotted during the retest.
• Repairs were incomplete or carried out in a way that doesn’t meet the tester’s checks.

What You Can Do After a Retest Failure

When a vehicle fails the retest, you still have options to get it back on the road. The tester gives you an updated list of faults, and your next step is to fix those issues before returning for another check. Acting quickly helps you avoid extra fees and limits the time your car stays off the road.

Your options include:

• Requesting a simple explanation from the tester about the items that failed.
• Choosing whether to let the same garage handle the repairs or visit another repair shop.
• Confirming that the mechanic understands each fault listed on the failure sheet.
• Returning for the next retest within the allowed timeframe to control costs.
• Keeping all repair records in case you need to show proof of work later.

Driving Rules After a Retest Failure

If the car fails again, the driving rules depend on the type of faults recorded. Some issues allow you to drive the vehicle to and from a repair shop, while others mean it must stay off the road. Understanding these rules is important because driving a car with serious faults can lead to penalties.

Key points to know:

• If the failure includes dangerous faults, the car cannot be driven at all. It must be repaired before moving.
• If the faults are major but not dangerous, you can drive the car only to a repair shop or back home, as long as the previous MOT certificate is still valid.
• Once the MOT certificate has expired, you can only drive to a booked test or repair appointment.
• Police and ANPR cameras can issue penalties if the car is driven while unsafe or without a valid test.

Costs You Might Face After a Retest Failure

A failed retest can add to your overall expenses, depending on how many faults are still present and how long the repairs take. Some garages offer a free retest within a set timeframe, but once that window closes, you may need to pay again.

Possible costs include:

• A retest fee if the free retest window has passed or the car needs a full test again.
• Additional repair work for items that were not fixed properly the first time.
• Higher labour charges if the job takes longer than expected.
• Extra costs for parts that need replacement during follow-up repairs.

Also read > Do Electric Cars Need MOT?

How to Avoid Another Retest Failure

Reducing the chance of another failure starts with simple checks before you return to the test centre. Many of the issues that cause delays are small faults drivers can fix or spot early.

Frequently Asked Questions