The Independent Garage Association has slammed a recent campaign by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders and the National Franchised Dealer Association that urged drivers to take their car to a dealer for its MoT.
IGA director Stuart James said the franchised dealer sector is using discounted MoT tests as a loss-leader for more expensive repair work, and that garages discounting MoTs and then “charging excessive amounts in repairs in order to make up for lost revenue” is a big area of concern.
“While consumers may think they are initially making a saving on their MoT they are then hit with an unnecessarily high charge for repairs,” he said.
The association is calling for a mandatory test and retest fee, and has met with undersecretary of state for transport Stephen Hammond to discuss the issue.