The Retail Motor Industry Federation has come to the defence of the garage trade after Car Parts Direct suggested garages were creating additional work through MoT retests.

Car Parts Direct claims that ‘motorists who fail to prepare for an MoT risk being charged for work that is not required and pay over the odds for repairs to avoid a second MoT’.

Ray Holloway, director of independent membership of the RMIF, said the remark was a ‘slur on the industry’.

“The suggestion that the garage trade is ripping off consumers by creating additional work for itself through the MoT test devalues the hugely positive effect that the test has on UK road safety,” said Holloway.

He said Car Parts Direct had a distorted view of the relationship between the MoT and the work performed around it by garages.

“The MoT has provided the UK with one of the best road safety records in the EU, by encouraging motorists to make sure their car can pass the test by keeping it properly maintained. Considering that 32% of vehicles fail the MoT test every year, where would we be without it in road safety terms?” added Holloway.

He made it clear garages would make repairs and replace parts while performing the MoT to avoid failure and the need for a retest, saving money and time for motorists.

Mark Cornwall of Car Parts Direct claims that half of all motorists can avoid the need for an MoT re-test themselves.

“Simply printing off our MoT check list and leaving it on the passenger seat is enough to let an MoT tester know that you understand what’s required for your MoT and reduces your chances of failing. Motorists that read and follow the instructions are almost certain to pass first time,” said Cornwall.