MOT test scrapped for Classic Cars

MOTs scrapped for Classic Cars

The Department for Transport has announced it is scrapping MOT tests for cars registered before 1960.

In a move that probably won’t make much difference to owners – but will at least cut down on red tape – the Department of Transport has announced that from 18th November 2012 owners of cars registered before 1960 will no longer require an annual MOT.

The argument for the change is that owners of classic and historic cars have a much lower accident and MOT failure rate than other vehicles on the road. In fact, the accident rate for cars registered before 1960 is just 5 per cent of the rate of newer cars.

It’s also clear that once a car goes from ‘banger’ to ‘cherished’ status, which seems to be around the age of 13 years, the MOT failure rate also declines.

Road Minister, Mike Penning, said:

We are committed to cutting out red tape which costs motorists money without providing significant overall benefits. Owners of classic cars and motorbikes tend to be enthusiasts who maintain their vehicles well – they don’t need to be told to look after them, they’re out there in all weathers checking the condition of the engine, tyres and bodywork.

Owners of classic vehicles will still be legally required to ensure that they are safe and in a proper condition to be on the road but scrapping the MoT test for these vehicles will save motorists money.

Logic and common sense from a government department. Whatever next?

By Cars UK