MOT test data from kwikFit shows the number of drivers not getting an exam by more than three weeks after their expiry date has tripled in the last six months. The figures show nine percent of road users booking their MOT test over the last half of the year did so three or more weeks after their certificate had run out.
This compares to figures of just three percent for the whole of 2019 in a major concern for road users and garages.
Roger Griggs, communications director at KwikFit warned this is “especially dangerous” as safety issues would not be picked up.
The issues were compounded by the fact many had “not been driving their cars as much” which means vehicles may have a range of problems associated with limited mileage.
He said: “It may be a result of the MOT extension or people having greater flexibility of when to book their MOT but the booking pattern has become much more spread out.
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Drivers can be fined up to £1,000 for driving without a valid MOT certificate but fees could rise depending on the condition of your vehicle.
This is because driving a car in a dangerous condition or which is severely damaged could see drivers issued £2,500 fines.
A new poll from KwikFit found drivers generally supported heavier punishments for those who travelled without a valid certificate.
A total of 26 percent said authorities should have the power to impound cars which are driven without a valid test.
Meanwhile, 14 percent of motorists think those who are travelling with an expired MOT should be issued a driving ban of up to six months.
A total of 12 percent say they also support a doubling of fines to £2,000.
KwikFit has reminded road users they can book a test up to one month before their expiry date to ensure they can keep the same month for their MOT next year.
This will ensure drivers are less likely to forget when their test is due and are unlikely to be caught out.
They have urged drivers to book as far in advance as possible to ensure they get one booked in.
Drivers who desperately try to get a test last minute may miss out and could be forced to stop driving until they can get an exam booked in.
Recent research from The Motor Ombudsman found test garages expect MOT demand to be lower in March and September when compared to last year.
The DVSA has forecasted around 3.49million MOTs wikl expire in March, just 152,000 more than the same month in a regular year.