A lot of drivers hear the words MOT and service all the time, but many people don’t really know the difference. Some think they are the same thing. Others think if they pass an MOT, the car must be fine. That’s not always true. They are related, but they do different jobs, and both matter for different reasons.
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If you own a car in the UK, sooner or later you have to deal with both.
What an MOT Actually Is
An MOT is a legal requirement once your car is three years old. You don’t have a choice about it. Every year, your car must pass an MOT test to be allowed on the road. If it fails and you keep driving, you can be fined and even lose points on your licence.
The MOT is mainly about safety and emissions. The tester checks things like brakes, tyres, lights, steering, suspension, seatbelts, and exhaust emissions. They are not fixing anything. They are just checking whether your car meets the minimum legal standard.
Passing an MOT doesn’t mean your car is in perfect condition. It only means it is safe enough, on that day, to be on the road.
What a Car Service Is
A service is completely different. A car service is about maintenance, not legality. You don’t legally have to service your car, but skipping it usually causes problems later.
During a service, the mechanic checks things that an MOT doesn’t really focus on. This includes oil changes, filters, fluid levels, spark plugs, battery condition, and general wear and tear. Servicing helps keep the engine healthy and stops small issues turning into expensive ones.
Most cars need a service once a year or every certain number of miles. Your handbook usually explains this.
Why MOT and Service Are Not the Same
This is where many drivers get confused. An MOT won’t change your oil. A service won’t automatically make your car road-legal. One checks safety rules, the other keeps the car running properly.
You can pass an MOT and still have old oil, worn filters, or parts close to failing. You can also have a freshly serviced car that still fails its MOT because of a broken light or worn tyre.
That’s why people often book MOT and service together.
Is It Better to Do Them Together?
For most people, yes. Booking both at the same time saves time and usually money. The garage already has the car, and the mechanic can spot issues early.
If something fails the MOT, the service might already include fixing it, depending on what the problem is. It also means your car leaves the garage both legal and properly maintained.
Many garages offer MOT and service packages, especially for busy drivers.
Common Mistakes People Make
One common mistake is waiting until the MOT fails before doing anything. By then, repairs can be more expensive.
Another mistake is skipping services because “the car feels fine.” Cars don’t always warn you before something goes wrong. Regular servicing helps avoid breakdowns and unexpected bills.
Some drivers also think a new MOT certificate means the car won’t break down. Unfortunately, that’s not how it works.
How Often Should You Do Each?
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MOT: Once a year, legally required
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Service: Usually once a year or based on mileage
If you don’t drive much, you still need both. Short trips can actually cause more wear in some cases.
Final Thoughts
MOTs and services do different jobs, but both are important. The MOT keeps your car legal and safe for the road. Servicing keeps it reliable and running well. Skipping either one usually causes trouble later.
If you want fewer surprises, fewer breakdowns, and fewer big repair bills, treat both seriously. A little effort each year saves a lot of stress down the road.
