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The MOT Curve

Making the most of the shortfall

Since the pandemic, the MOT pattern has shifted. Pre 2020, the MOT curve consistently spiked in March and September to coincide with the release of new vehicles. While those months are still busier than others, the relatively flatter line that was pre 2020 has meant that there is a huge dip in MOTs after March. So much so that the wave of MOTs each September to November have meant that garages have become incredibly busy.

How have MOTs been affected?

5,000,000

4,500,000

Feast to famine? Looking at the graph, we can see the biggest dip is in April, which means it’s vitally important for garages to make the most of MOT business in March – as well as finding new ways to fill the gap that follows. The pattern should even itself out over the next few years, as more new vehicles come out of their warranty period and enter the independent aftermarket, in line with the new number plate release once more.

4,000,000

3,500,000

3,000,000

2,500,000

2,000,000

1,500,000

1,000,000

500,000

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

2019

2020 2021

2022

2023

Source: DVSA/ SMMT/ LKQ-ECP.

The opportunity fo

Before the vehicles are on ramps

Following up on advisories How many MOT advisories did you flag last year? With this figure in mind, you’re sitting on a lot of potential new business for your workshop. Last year, the DVSA predicted that one in four vehicles would pass their MOTs with advisories – depending on the severity, the vehicle could need to return to the workshop soon for repairs.

Timing belts Are you checking when the timing belt was last changed? When a customer calls to book their MOT it is advised that the person accepting the booking – whether that be an MOT tester or a receptionist – checks to see if the timing belt has been changed.

Page 2 | Garage Support | 2023 Issue 1