Owners of classic cars, which are currently exempt from annual MOT tests once they reach 40 years of age, are expressing a desire for these inspections to ensure roadworthiness. A recent survey of 1,200 classic car owners revealed that nearly two-thirds (64 percent) would be willing to pay for an MOT to demonstrate their vehicle's safety.
Under current regulations, vehicles that are 40 years or older automatically qualify for 'historic vehicle' status. This status brings several benefits, including exemption from clean air zone charges, such as London's ULEZ, and the eventual exemption from Vehicle Excise Duty, commonly known as car tax. Crucially, it also exempts them from the requirement of an MOT test.
Ministers have historically considered these vehicles as cherished assets that owners maintain to a high standard due to their financial and sentimental value. However, with an increasing number of modern-classic cars, such as the Citroen AX, Jaguar XJ40, and Rover 800, now qualifying for this status from 2024, not all older vehicles are necessarily high-value collector's items. Many of these cars are relatively inexpensive to purchase, and without a mandatory roadworthiness check, there is a potential for numerous vehicles with serious defects to be on the road.
Data from the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency between January 2019 and June 2021 showed that approximately one in five classic vehicles would fail an MOT. During this period, 121,204 voluntary MOT tests were conducted on vehicles over 40 years old, despite no legal requirement. The results indicated an average failure rate of 18.4 percent.
Respondents in the survey conducted by insurer Hagerty UK indicated support for an annual inspection, though many suggested that any test for vehicles over 40 years old should differ from those applied to modern cars. Suggestions included a more sympathetic approach and a proportionate testing regime. Among those surveyed, 43 percent currently opt for an annual MOT despite no legal obligation, and many believe the existing inspection process is not ideally suited for older vehicles.
Furthermore, 43 percent of respondents stated they would be willing to pay more for a classic car with a valid MOT certificate, and 47 percent believe mandatory inspections would aid in preserving historic vehicles for future generations. Enthusiasts expressed confusion as to why any vehicle would be exempt from some form of inspection.
Mark Roper, managing director of Hagerty UK, commented that the poll results indicate significant concerns among classic vehicle owners regarding the current MOT exemption. He noted a desire for a classic-specific MOT that uses checks appropriate for the vehicle's age.
The wider classic car industry also appears to support some form of inspection. Dale Keller, chief executive of the Historic & Classic Vehicles Alliance (HCVA), stated that while the current exemption has a clear rationale, there is a strong case for developing an optional, industry-led roadworthiness inspection for MOT-exempt historic vehicles, particularly for those returning to the road after storage, restoration, or significant mechanical work.
Separately, the Independent Garage Association (IGA) has proposed increasing the maximum MOT test price cap from £54.85 to £95. The IGA argues that the current fee, unchanged since 2010, has become unsustainable due to rising operating costs, including labor, rent, equipment, fuel, and energy. The association is scheduled to meet with the Department for Transport on October 21 to discuss a potential increase to the MOT fee cap.