Your MOT certificate confirms that at the time of the test your vehicle met, as far as can be reasonably determined without dismantling, the minimum acceptable environmental and road safety standards required by law. It does not mean that the vehicle is roadworthy for the life of the certificate and is not a substitute for regular maintenance.

The way information is held about MOT tests has changed. Records of test results are now held on a secure central database. This change has not affected your actual MOT test but it has affected the way you check the MOT history. All MOT testing stations have been connected to this central database. When your vehicle is tested at one of these 'computerised' testing stations your test record will be entered onto this new database and you will receive a new style (A4 in size) certificate.

The new MOT certificate is your receipt for the MOT test. It shows the information that is held on the MOT database. The certificate is no longer proof of an MOT and should not be relied on as such. Only the computer record can prove a vehicle has a valid MOT. Under the new system any recommended advisory work will normally be shown on a new Advisory Notice which will be given to you at the time of the test.

Book your vehicle into Penelopes Pitstops for an MOT by clicking here.

In October 2003, European Union legislation affecting the motor trade came into force. It's full title is Block Exemption Regulations 1400/2002 (in short 'BER').

Now motorists can use any garage of their choice to service their cars without invalidating their manufacturer's warranty.