Vintage Cars and MOT: What You Need to Know

In the UK, there has been a recent change in the law regarding older vehicles. Cars over 40 years old no longer need to undergo an MOT test to be allowed on the road. However, it's crucial to understand that these vintage cars still need to be roadworthy, a requirement enforceable by insurance companies.

The Change in Legislation

The primary change in legislation relates to the mandatory testing requirement for vehicles. According to the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT), the MOT test for older cars is now based on the age of the vehicle rather than a hard age threshold. Essentially, vintage cars more than 40 years old are exempted from undergoing the MOT test biennially, although they still fall under roadworthiness tests when needed.

What Is Roadworthiness?

While vintage cars are no longer required to undergo an official MOT, the concept of roadworthiness remains. This essentially means that your vehicle must be in a fit condition to be driven on public roads. Roadworthiness covers a wide range of areas, including but not limited to:

Brakes Steering and suspension Tyres and condition of the bodywork Wipers and lights Vault and locking mechanisms

Insurance companies typically require a vehicle to be roadworthy to ensure that they can fulfill their legal obligations. Therefore, having a vehicle that cannot safely drive on public roads could lead to complications during insurance claims.

Optional MOT for Vintage Cars

Due to the subjective nature of roadworthiness, some owners of vintage cars may still choose to have an optional MOT test done. These tests provide a professional assessment of the vehicle's condition, giving you peace of mind and potential benefits:

They can help you identify any issues that may not be immediately apparent, allowing for timely repairs. Professional assessments often involve a detailed inspection, including areas that might be neglected in DIY checks. An official test report can serve as a record of the vehicle's condition, which can be useful if claiming insurance for accidents or breakdowns.

Insurance Implications

Another key factor to consider is the impact on insurance. While vintage cars no longer need a formal MOT to be on the road, insurance companies still require your vehicle to be in a safe condition. If you do not have a valid optional MOT and are in an accident, the insurance company may refuse to pay out, citing the vehicle as being unsafe.

Therefore, even though the law has relaxed the mandatory MOT requirements, it's vital to ensure that your vintage car is roadworthy. This can often be achieved through a thorough, optional MOT, which can provide comprehensive reassurance and peace of mind.

Conclusion

In conclusion, vintage cars in the UK are no longer required to undergo a biennial MOT test, but they still need to be roadworthy for legal and insurance purposes. Whether you choose to have an optional MOT done is a personal decision, but it can provide valuable peace of mind and documentation in case of any accidents or insurance claims.