What Drivers Should Know About MOT Test Repair Expenses

For many drivers, an MOT can bring anxiety about unexpected costs. From worrying whether their car will pass to dreading a call about costly repairs, it’s no surprise motorists feel uneasy about the annual test. But how much do drivers really know about what those fixes cost?

A survey of 2,000 UK drivers, carried out by short-term car insurance experts Tempcover, reveals a lack of awareness about how much some of the most common MOT failure repairs actually cost. With nearly two in five (39%) drivers unsure how much at least one typical repair costs, misconceptions could be driving unnecessary spending, delayed maintenance, and avoidable stress at MOT time.

More Than One in 10 Drivers Unsure How Much It Costs to Replace Tyres or Wipers

The survey asked drivers how much they thought it typically costs to fix some of the most common MOT failures. A third (33%) of respondents said they weren’t sure how much it would cost to replace a track rod end, and 30% said the same for replacing coil springs. Even for simpler repairs, such as a new tyre or windscreen wipers, 11% and 12% of drivers respectively said they weren’t sure about the price.

Understanding what to expect when repairs are needed can help drivers budget effectively, avoid overpaying, and ensure their vehicles remain safe on the road.

 

Not everyone was unsure about prices; in fact, for some repairs, drivers had overestimated the cost.

1. On average, survey respondents thought replacing a tyre would cost £104.48. While that might be true for some premium tyres, research shows that a budget tyre typically costs around £56.

2. Brake pad replacements were also overestimated. Drivers are expected to pay an average of £142.58, but depending on whether it’s front or rear pads, UK costs can range from £99.85 to £134.95[2]. If both front and rear pads need replacing, the total cost would be higher, meaning respondents may have underestimated the overall expense.

3. Drivers overestimated the cost of replacing wipers, with an average expectation of £55.95. A single wiper typically costs around £19, or about £38 for a pair.

For some repairs, drivers thought it would be cheaper than reality. On average, they expected a headlight replacement to cost £52.31, compared with the typical £68[4]. Coil spring replacements were also underestimated, with drivers expecting £161.93, while costs can be as high as £177 for rear springs and £275 for front springs.

Of course, every car and issue is different, so actual costs will vary depending on the vehicle and the garage.

Nearly A Quarter of Drivers Have Put Off Fixing an MOT Advisory Because of Cost

After highlighting widespread uncertainty around repair costs, the research found that 24% of drivers have chosen to delay fixing an MOT advisory due to the expense involved. While advisories don’t prevent a car from passing its MOT, the items flagged will need attention at some point, and planning for them can help drivers manage repairs more effectively.

Claire Willis-McKissick, short-term car insurance expert at Tempcover, adds: “Despite drivers putting off fixing an MOT advisory due to cost, our survey also found that 36% never shop around for repairs and always use the same garage. Drivers often need to balance car repairs against other bills, but if you compare quotes and plan non-urgent work carefully, it can help manage costs and keep your car roadworthy.

“When the time comes to take your car in for repairs, temporary car insurance can help. It offers flexible cover to borrow a friend or family member’s car for as little as one hour, or up to 28 days, so drivers can stay mobile while their car is being repaired.”